The Sunflower Ferry runs daily between Osaka and Beppu, with a journey time of about 12 hours. Unlike other modes of transport, this ferry combines travel and accommodation. You can relax comfortably, leaving your luggage in your cabin or locker during the trip. Departing Osaka at night, you'll sleep as you travel and arrive in Beppu the next morning, ready to start your day refreshed and make the most of your day at your destination.

Two ships sail between Osaka and Beppu: the Sunflower Kurenai and Sunflower Murasaki. These ships were recently launched in 2023 and offer a travel experience akin to staying in a luxury hotel.

Once you board, you'll be greeted by the grand staircase of the three-story atrium. The interior decor features traditional crafts from the Beppu area, including bamboo work and motifs of the prefectural flower of Oita, the Bungo-ume plum blossom. The impressive lobby creates an immediate sense of excitement as your journey begins. Each evening, the atrium's large round ceiling and wall screens come alive with stunning projection mapping displays, enhancing the ambiance and making your ferry experience truly memorable.

The onboard restaurant offers a delightful buffet for both dinner and breakfast. (Price for 1 adult: Dinner 2,300 yen, breakfast 750 yen including tax).

For dinner, enjoy the Setouchi Buffet, featuring fresh ingredients from the Seto Inland Sea and regional specialties. Savor local dishes such as toriten (fried chicken), Hamburg steaks topped with demi-glace sauce, a salad bar, sashimi, curry, and udon noodles. For dessert, indulge in the chocolate fountain and a variety of other sweets, like the matcha green tea chocolate cake and more.

Choose from around 30 different dishes and feast while enjoying ocean views. The buffet also includes a drink bar with unlimited soft drinks (juice, tea, coffee, etc.), and for an additional charge, you can enjoy beer and wine.

Additionally, guests can enjoy the expansive public bath facilities, available for free in the morning and evening. Take a moment to unwind in the warm waters, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea through the large windows in the morning. The bath area is equipped with shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, and shower rooms are open all day long.

There's also a shop offering a variety of souvenirs from Kansai and Kyushu, as well as beverages, ice cream, and snacks. You'll find vending machines and coin lockers for added convenience during your journey.

Onboard the Sunflower, you're not just traveling, but also staying overnight. Select the perfect accommodations from over about 20 different cabin types. Options range from luxurious suites and semi-suites with private balconies to traditional Deluxe Japanese-style Cabins. For solo travelers, there are Superior Single Cabins, Private Beds in shared cabins, and more. There are even cabins designed for guests traveling with pets, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable night for everyone.

While on board, passengers can enjoy spectacular views of the area's three major bridges, including the famous Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, as well as breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. These are truly special experiences that only a ferry journey can offer.
From Osaka, the ferry passes under the illuminated Akashi Kaikyo Bridge around 8 to 9 PM. Be sure to take in the stunning sight from the observation deck!

The Osaka terminal is directly connected to the Osaka Metro New Tram's Trade Center-mae Station. This station is only about 30 minutes away by subway from Umeda Station and Namba Station in the heart of downtown Osaka. Additionally, it is just two subway stations away from Yumeshima Station , the closest station to the 2025 World Exposition (Expo Osaka Kansai) venue.
The Beppu terminal offers bus services from the terminal to JR Beppu Station, with a travel time of about 15 minutes.
Cars can be brought onto the ferry, so you can rent a vehicle and board with it.

If you're traveling from Osaka to Beppu in Japan, consider using the Sunflower Ferry for a relaxed and comfortable journey filled with special experiences.