Taiheiyo Ferry Schedules 2026

Taiheiyo Ferry runs the Pacific coast route linking Nagoya, Sendai and Tomakomai in Hokkaido — the length of eastern Japan by sea, on ships including the Ishikari.

There is a show on board

This is the detail that distinguishes the company: it runs a lounge show programme with professional entertainers across different genres, and publishes the performer schedule months in advance. On a two-night crossing that is not decoration — it is the difference between a transit and a cruise. The restaurant serves seasonal menus with a view over the Pacific, and Starlink Wi-Fi has been available since July 2026.

Rules that changed recently

Several things have been revised, and an older guide will mislead you. Bicycle and motorcycle fares rose in May 2026. Restaurant and alcohol prices were revised in July 2026. Hunting rifles have been banned from the ships since 1 July 2026. High-value vehicles now face restrictions on the unaccompanied vehicle service, and the company publishes a warning about carrying power banks. Card payment replaced cash at the shops and information desk in 2025 and at the restaurant ticket machines in 2026.

Booking and discounts

Advance fares reward planning — the Hayatoku 21 books three weeks out — and there are pair and group deals on the top-grade cabins. Ferry tickets also unlock discounts inland, through a tie-up with the expressway operator NEXCO East and at the Hokkaido Garden Way attractions. Smart boarding with a QR pass now works from the vehicle deck. Site languages are Japanese, English and both Chinese scripts, and the company has published a customer harassment policy.