Meimon Taiyo Ferry

Meimon Taiyo Ferry is a large ferry operator that connects Osaka Nanko with Shinmoji Port in Kitakyushu, running two services every day. Meimon Ferry Co., Ltd. was formed in 1984 through the merger of “Meimon Car Ferry” and “Taiyo Ferry.” Meimon Car Ferry previously linked Osaka Port and Shinmoji Port, while Taiyo Ferry connected Osaka Port with Kanda in northeastern Fukuoka Prefecture. Because the route passes through the Seto Inland Sea, passengers can see landmarks such as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the Seto Ohashi Bridge, and the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge up close. One of the company’s vessels, “Ferry Osaka II,” completed in March 2015, is a large ferry with a gross tonnage of 14,920 tons, a length of 183 m, and a beam of 27 m. The ship accommodates 713 passengers, with guest rooms on decks 6 through 8: deck 6 includes Tourist class cabins, driver rooms, and a restaurant; deck 7 has a TV corner and an observation room; and deck 8 features higher-grade cabins and a deck with views of spots such as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. In addition, free buses depart from Shinmoji Port for Mojiko/ Moji Station area and Kokura Station.