Travelers looking for a new way to visit Japan will soon have another option. A new ferry route connecting Keelung in Taiwan and Ishigaki Island in Okinawa, Japan, is set to officially begin service, allowing passengers to travel overnight and arrive in Japan the next morning without taking a flight.
HUA GANG Group previously announced that the new ferry “YAIMA MARU” will begin its maiden voyage on the night of May 28. The ship is scheduled to depart from Keelung Port between 11 p.m. and midnight and arrive at Ishigaki Port at 8 a.m. the following morning. The “depart at night, arrive in the morning” schedule allows passengers to rest onboard while also saving one night of accommodation costs.
The Keelung–Ishigaki route was originally expected to launch at the end of 2025, but was delayed due to ship preparation and engineering work. After the official launch date was announced, the new sea route quickly drew attention from travelers interested in Japan trips. During the trial operation period from late May to the end of June, the ferry will operate once a week. Departures from Keelung will be every Thursday night, while return trips from Ishigaki will depart every Sunday night and arrive back in Keelung on Monday morning.
As for ticket prices, the lowest off-season promotional fare for an economy room starts at around NT$2,000 one way before tax, making it an attractive alternative compared with some peak-season airfare prices. Higher-end suite rooms range from about NT$8,500 to NT$10,500. The ferry also offers several types of accommodations, including shared sleeping areas and family suites.
Starting in July, the route will enter its regular operation phase with two round trips per week. Tickets officially went on sale on May 15 through travel agencies and online booking platforms. The reopening of a Taiwan–Japan sea route also offers travelers a more relaxed and unique way to experience Japan travel.
