By ITSUKA JAPAN
In this relaxing travelogue, YouTuber ITSUKA JAPAN takes viewers on a luxurious 15-hour overnight ferry journey from Shibushi Port in Kagoshima Prefecture to Osaka Port aboard the Sunflower Satsuma (さんふらわあ さつま), a modern ferry launched in 2018. The trip begins at Kagoshima-Chuo Station, where the traveler boards a reserved bus to Shibushi Port. After arrival and embarkation, the unique experience truly begins.
The highlight of the voyage is a stay in the Deluxe Japanese-style Tatami Room, one of only two of its kind on the entire ship. Located at the very front of the vessel, this room offers incredible views through large forward windows and provides a tranquil, homelike atmosphere akin to one's traditional Japanese 'jikka' (parents' home). The room is spacious and designed for small groups or couples (2–4 people), making it perfect for a relaxing evening at sea.
The onboard experience includes a lavish buffet dinner with a variety of gourmet dishes. The ferry also features several entertainment options such as an arcade-style crane game machine themed around the popular character Chiikawa, a viewing deck for ocean vistas, and projection mapping displays to enhance the visual experience. These little extras elevate the ferry journey beyond just transportation, turning it into a mini-cruise.
The video concludes with the journey’s peaceful arrival at the Osaka Ferry Terminal in the early morning. A breakfast buffet awaits the guests, featuring specialties like curry and the unique addition of grapefruit vinegar. The combination of comfortable lodging, excellent meals, and onboard entertainment makes this ferry ride a rejuvenating and memorable way to travel between Kagoshima and Osaka.
The Sunflower Satsuma ferry offers a serene travel alternative to flying or bullet trains, ideal for travelers seeking a unique, slow-travel experience through Japan's scenic coastal routes.