Japan Overnight Ferry Tokyo to Tokushima
Our first Overnight Ferry experience and we’re already looking out for our next ferry route!
Journey: Tokyo 19:00 -> Tokushima 13:20 total 18 hours!
We faced a problem with the booking because their booking page doesn’t allow overseas vpn but our friend helped us booked 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
We were not able to get a private room so we had to book separate shared rooms. The bed was clean though we had to spread the sheets on our own. Thankfully hostel life equipped me with the knowledge: when 2 bedsheets are given, you’re supposed to sandwich yourself between them. So mattress, bedsheet 1, you, bedsheet 2, blanket on top.
Food is available via vending machine and many microwaves are available. You’re also allowed to bring your own food. The public area is open 24/7 and some people even sleep in the dining area.
Shower is shared with 3 cubicles separated by shower curtains. There’s also a public bath to soak in! Soap, shampoo and hairdryer are provided, and you can purchase neccessities like towels, toothbrush via the vending machine. Coin laundry is also available.
Coin lockers are available but it’s handbag sized units, you can leave your luggage in your room.
While sleep is not the easiest with the humming of the engine and rocking of the boat, I got front row seats to watching the sun rise so this is all worth it!
Will we take a ferry again? Absolutely yes!
If you’re considering the Ocean Tokyu Ferry from Tokyo to Tokushima, here are some extra tips from my trip that made it more enjoyable. Since private rooms can be limited, booking early is key—shared rooms are clean and comfortable, but you might prefer bringing your own snacks since the vending machines offer limited options. The public bath is a highlight after a long day of travel; don’t miss soaking in it to relax your muscles. Also, prepare for some noise due to the boat’s engine and rocking—earplugs helped me get better rest. Unlike many hotel stays, you’ll need to make your own bed by layering sheets, a quirk I learned from hostel experiences. Coin-operated laundry allows you to freshen up clothes during the 18-hour journey, which is handy if you're traveling light. The coin lockers, although small, are helpful for keeping valuables safe while you explore the ferry's public areas. Watching the sunrise over the water is a truly unique moment, so try to get a spot near a window if possible! Lastly, the booking process can be tricky if you’re overseas due to VPN restrictions, so having a local friend assist or booking early online might save you hassle. Overall, this overnight ferry is a wonderful way to experience Japan's coast and travel in a relaxed, scenic style.
