Beppu Ferry Terminal

About

Beppu Ferry Terminal Pier 3, the departure point for Uwajima Unyu ferry services to Shikoku

Beppu International Tourist Port (別府国際観光港) serves as a vital maritime gateway connecting Kyushu to Shikoku via the historic Seto Inland Sea. Established in 1934 as part of Setonaikai National Park, this ferry terminal maintains a centuries-old tradition of maritime trade between Japan's southern islands. 🔗

The terminal operates Pier 3 specifically for Uwajima Unyu ferry services, which have connected these regions since 1884, boasting a 130-year history of maritime service. 🔗 This route crosses the Bungo Channel and follows the scenic Sadamisaki Peninsula, offering passengers views of seabirds and occasionally dolphins during the 2 hour 50 minute crossing. 🔗

Cultural & Historical Significance

The crossing itself passes through Setonaikai National Park, Japan's largest national park covering over 9,000 square kilometers of land and sea across 11 prefectures. 🔗 The Seto Inland Sea has served as a main transport line between Kansai, Kyushu, Korea, and China from ancient times, with historical records of foreign emissaries sailing these waters. 🔗

Uwajima Unyu Ferries have maintained this crucial connection since 1884, representing 130 years of continuous maritime service linking Kyushu's hot spring culture with Shikoku's pilgrimage and agricultural heritage. 🔗

Visiting Information

Access from Beppu City:

• Bus from JR Beppu Station: 10 minutes to "Beppu Kanko-ko No.3 Port Kansai Kiken Mae" bus stop 🔗
• Taxi from JR Beppu Station: Approximately 10 minutes
• From Oita Expressway Beppu IC: 15 minutes by car 🔗
• From Beppu hot spring district: 15 minutes by bus or taxi

Ferry Service Details:

• Operator: Uwajima Unyu Ferries
• Departure frequency: Up to 6 ferries per day (approximately every 4 hours) 🔗
• Crossing time: 2 hours 50 minutes to Yawatahama 🔗
• Operating schedule: Multiple daily departures including early morning (00:20) and evening (20:30) services 🔗

Advance Car Reservation System:

• Booking window: 60 days to 3 days before departure 🔗
• Reservation required: Mandatory for vehicles and motorcycles 🔗
• Booking methods:
  • Phone: Beppu Port Tel: 0977-21-2364 🔗
  • Online booking available through third-party platforms (KKday, Direct Ferries)
• Internet discount: 5% discount when booking online (print reservation for ticketing) 🔗

Vehicle Check-in Procedures:

• Recommended arrival time: 60-90 minutes before departure for stress-free boarding 🔗
• Required documentation: Car registration/manual for vehicle inspection 🔗
• Fare determination: Port officials hand-measure vehicle length to determine fee 🔗
• Driver fare included: Second-class passenger fare for one driver included in vehicle fare 🔗

Cancellation Policy:

• 3+ days before: Free cancellation 🔗
• 2 days before: 10% cancellation fee
• 1 day before: 30% cancellation fee

The Terminal Experience

Facilities:

• Modern ferry terminal building with reception, waiting room, and restrooms 🔗
• Restaurants, cafés, supermarket, post office, and arcade within short walking distance in Beppu Downtown 🔗

During the Crossing:

• Scenic views of the Bungo Channel and Sadamisaki Peninsula 🔗
• Seabird watching opportunities
• Occasional dolphin sightings during crossing 🔗
• View of the 3,000 islands of the Seto Inland Sea 🔗
• Onboard Wi-Fi available 🔗
• Convenience store and vending machines 🔗
• Tatami-style seating rooms and individual reclining seats 🔗

Practical Visiting Tips

Culture Day (November 3) Considerations:

• Culture Day is a national holiday promoting culture, arts, and academic endeavors 🔗
• Strong recommendation: Book ferry 60 days in advance (earliest possible) to secure vehicle space during holiday period
• Consider that many Japanese travelers may use this holiday for domestic trips
• Ferry schedules typically maintain regular service during holidays

Booking Strategy:

• Book 60 days in advance (as soon as booking window opens) for Culture Day travel 🔗
• Call Beppu Port directly (0977-21-2364) for most reliable reservation
• Request online booking confirmation to receive 5% internet discount 🔗

Documentation Preparation:

• Bring car registration or owner's manual for vehicle inspection 🔗
• Print online booking confirmation if applicable
• Have payment ready (cash and card likely accepted)

Seasonal Weather (Early November):

• Comfortable autumn temperatures, more pleasant than summer heat 🔗
• Mild climate characteristic of Seto Inland Sea region (Mediterranean-like conditions) 🔗
• Excellent conditions for deck viewing and photography

Photography Tips:

• Daytime ferry crossings offer best views of islands and coastal scenery
• Morning departures provide good light for photography
• Deck access allows for unobstructed seascape photography

Location: View on Google Maps

Source: attractions/beppu-to-osaka-ferry-route/beppu-ferry-terminal.md