Japanese ferry operator Sunflower is pitching its overnight ferry services as the Dangan, or Bullet, Ferry, aiming to compete with Japan’s famous Bullet Trains. The ferry’s not that fast, but its overnight sailings can beat getting up super-early to get on the train.
The three Dangan Ferry routes allow passengers to travel overnight, saving a hotel night, as well as saving big-time on the tickets, compared with the train. Ferry fares are 10,000 yen roundtrip, compared to a one-way fare of at least 16,000 on the train to the same destinations. Children are half-price.
The routes all serve Kyushu island. Two of the routes are from Osaka, serving Beppu’s popular hot springs and Shibushi. The other connects Kobe with Oita City.
Accommodations aren’t luxurious, though. The basic fare gets you mat space and clothes hangers in a large room, but for 12,340 yen you can get space in a room with bunk beds.
