Matsuyama Ferries
The car ferry docking at Takahama Port, Matsuyama
Matsuyama ferries provide essential connections between Shikoku and the main islands of Honshu and Kyushu. These maritime services offer a range of routes, vessel types, and schedules to accommodate different travel needs. For visitors planning to explore Matsuyama or the picturesque Seto Inland Sea region, understanding the ferry options, timetables, fares, and booking procedures is crucial. Whether you're a tourist seeking scenic views or a local needing efficient transport, Matsuyama Ferries play a vital role in connecting this part of Shikokuwith the rest of Japan.
Ferry routes and destinations
Matsuyama's ferry network offers diverse connections to several key destinations across Japan. The main routes include:
- Matsuyama Tourist Port to Hiroshima: Operated by Ishizaki Kisen and Setonaikai Kisen, this popular route takes 2 hours 40 minutes by car ferry or a swift 1 hour 8 minutes by high-speed boat.
- Matsuyama Tourist Port to Kure: Also run by Ishizaki Kisen and Setonaikai Kisen, this journey takes 55 minutes by high-speed boat or 1 hour 55 minutes by car ferry.
- Mitsuhama Port - Yanai in Yamaguchi: A 2 hour 30 minute journey operated by Boyo Ferry.
- Matsuyama Tourist Port to Kokura: A longer 7 hour 5 minute trip run by Matsuyama Kokura Ferry.
Additionally, other ports in Ehime Prefecture offer connections to various destinations:
- Yawatahama Port to Beppu: A 2 hour 50 minute journey with Uwajima Unyu Ferry.
- Toyo Port to Osaka: An 8-hour overnight journey with Orange Ferry.
- Niihama Higashi Port to Kobe: A 7-hour trip, also operated by Orange Ferry.
Types of vessels and travel times
Matsuyama's ferry services utilize various vessel types to cater to different travel preferences and needs:
- High-speed boats (Super Jet): These vessels offer the fastest travel times, making the Matsuyama-Hiroshima crossing in just 70 minutes. They're ideal for passengers prioritizing speed and efficiency.
- Car ferries: While slower, taking about 2 hours 40 minutes for the Matsuyama-Hiroshima route, these larger vessels can accommodate vehicles and offer more onboard amenities.
- Overnight ferries: Used for longer routes like Toyo Port to Osaka, these ships provide comfortable accommodations for extended journeys.
The Hiroshima-Kure-Matsuyama Ferry route, operated jointly by Ishizaki Kisen and Setonaikai Kisen, exemplifies this variety. High-speed boats make the crossing in about an hour, while car ferries take closer to two hours. The companies also operate a Super Jet high-speed boat that completes the Matsuyama-Hiroshima crossing in a mere 55 minutes.
The high speed Jet Boat ferry
Timetables and frequency of service
Ferry services between Matsuyama and major destinations operate frequently throughout the day. For instance, the Timetable & Fares for the Hiroshima-Kure-Matsuyama route as of 2017 shows:
- Car ferries: 10 daily round trips, with departures from Hiroshima starting at 5:45 am and the last ferry leaving at 7:45 pm.
- Super Jet high-speed boats: 12 daily sailings each way, with services from Hiroshima beginning at 7:30 am and the final departure at 9:00 pm.
Sailings from Matsuyama typically start early in the morning and continue until late evening, providing flexibility for travelers. It's important to note that some early morning and late night services may not stop at all ports, so checking the detailed schedule is advisable.
Fare structure and discounts
Ferry fares vary depending on the route, vessel type, and passenger category. For the Hiroshima-Kure-Matsuyama route:
- Car ferry fares: 3,600 yen from Hiroshima to Matsuyama, 2,670 yen from Kure to Matsuyama, and 930 yen between Hiroshima and Kure.
- Super Jet fares: 7,100 yen from Hiroshima to Matsuyama, 5,500 yen from Kure to Matsuyama, and 2,100 yen between Hiroshima and Kure.
Several discount options are available to make travel more affordable:
- Foreign visitor discount: The one-way Hiroshima Super Jet fare is discounted to 3,800 yen for foreign visitors.
- Group discounts: Available for groups of 15 or more, offering a 10% reduction on standard fares.
- Disability discounts: Available for passengers with valid Japanese disability certificates.
- "My Car" discount: Offers reduced rates for vehicles under 6m in length, including accompanying passenger fares.
Children's fares are typically half the adult fare, with infants under one year traveling free. One preschool child per adult also travels free, with additional children charged the children's fare.
Matsuyama Kanko Port (Takahama)
Booking process and important information
Reservations for Matsuyama ferries can be made through various channels:
- Directly with ferry companies: By phone, online, or at ferry terminals.
- Through travel agencies: Especially useful for those seeking package deals or assistance in English.
- Online booking platforms: Some routes can be reserved in English through services like Direct Ferries.
Important considerations for booking and travel include:
- Advance reservations: Recommended for popular routes and peak travel times, especially if traveling with a vehicle.
- Check-in times: Typically 30 minutes before departure for foot passengers and earlier for vehicles.
- Payment: Usually made at the counter on the day of travel, with some exceptions for certain ticket types.
- Luggage restrictions: Carry-on luggage is limited to items with combined dimensions not exceeding 2m and weighing up to 30kg, with a maximum of two items per passenger.
Onboard facilities and services
The amenities available on Matsuyama ferries vary depending on the vessel type and route length. Generally, passengers can expect:
- Seating options: From standard seats to premium "Super Seats" on high-speed boats.
- Dining facilities: Ranging from vending machines and small shops on shorter routes to restaurants on longer journeys.
- Observation decks: Offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
- Accessibility features: Many vessels are equipped to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.
On longer routes, such as overnight ferries, additional amenities may include:
- Cabin accommodations: Ranging from shared dormitory-style rooms to private cabins.
- Public baths: A quintessential Japanese experience, even at sea.
- Entertainment areas: Some ferries offer spaces for relaxation and socializing.
Port information and transportation connections
Matsuyama's main ferry terminal, Matsuyama Tourist Port (Matsuyama Kanko Port), is well-connected to the city center:
- Location: 5-2259-1 Takahamamachi, Matsuyama-shi, Ehime 791-8081
- Access: A 3-minute bus ride or 10-15 minute walk from Iyotetsu Takahama Station, the last stop on the Takahama Tram Line.
- Connections: Iyotetsu suburban trains and buses link the port to key locations including JR Matsuyama Station, Matsuyama-shi Station, and popular tourist spots like Dogo Onsen.
Other important Port Information includes:
- Parking: Available at the port for both short-term and long-term use.
- Facilities: The terminal building houses ticket counters, waiting areas, shops, and restaurants.
- Bicycle rentals: Available at Matsuyama and Kure ports for 1,000 yen per day plus a 2,000 yen deposit.
For travelers exploring beyond Matsuyama, the ferry network provides seamless connections to other transport modes, making it an integral part of the region's transportation infrastructure. Whether you're island-hopping in the Seto Inland Sea or venturing further afield, Matsuyama's ferries offer a convenient and scenic way to travel.
