SOUTH KOREA → JAPAN · OVERNIGHT FERRY
The Busan to Shimonoseki ferry is an overnight international ferry connecting Busan in South Korea with Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. Kampu Ferry operates the route with HAMAYUU and SEONGHEE, offering passenger cabins, restaurants, baths and other onboard facilities. The route normally operates once a day, making it a useful alternative to flying for travelers continuing into western Japan.
01 · ROUTE & SCHEDULE
Busan to Shimonoseki Overnight Ferry
Kampu Ferry connects Busan and Shimonoseki with one overnight sailing per day. Passengers board in Busan in the afternoon and spend the night on the ferry before arriving in Japan the following morning.
This is an overnight service. Check-in at Busan Port is currently listed from 15:00 to 17:30. The operating schedule may change on special dates, during vessel inspections or because of weather.
Direct international ferry between South Korea and Japan.
Kampu Ferry operates the Busan–Shimonoseki overnight route.
The official booking site describes the route as operating once a day.
Allow enough time for ticketing, immigration and international boarding procedures.
Board in Korea, sleep onboard and arrive in Japan the following morning.
02 · FERRY & CABINS
HAMAYUU & SEONGHEE Overnight Ferries
Two vessels serve the route. HAMAYUU offers Japanese-style hospitality, while SEONGHEE offers Korean-style hospitality. Both provide several cabin categories and facilities designed for an overnight journey.
One of the two vessels regularly assigned to the Busan–Shimonoseki route.
The second vessel operating the daily international route.
The lowest regular passenger fare category and the most economical cabin option.
Higher cabin categories are available for travelers who prefer more privacy.
The highest passenger cabin category listed in the official fare table.
03 · 2026 FARES
Busan to Shimonoseki Ferry Fare Guide
Kampu Ferry uses date-based web pricing. The amount you pay depends on the sailing date and cabin category. The figures below are the official one-way passenger fare ranges currently published for 2026.
Regular one-way fare ¥12,000. Discounted web fares vary according to the date category.
Regular fare ¥16,000 with lower web fares available on selected dates.
A more private cabin option. Room-use supplements may apply when occupied below capacity.
Premium cabin category. Additional room-use fees may apply for single occupancy.
Official child fares start at ¥6,000 for Second Class. Infants under age 1 travel free.
Port facility charges and fuel surcharges are collected separately from the passenger fare.
04 · BOOKING
How to Book the Busan to Shimonoseki Ferry
Kampu Ferry offers online reservations and payment. Online sales normally open two months before the boarding date and remain available until 13:00 on the day before departure, subject to availability.
Online Reservation
The English Kampu Ferry reservation page allows travelers to check available sailings, compare cabin categories and complete payment online.
- Open the official Kampu Ferry online reservation page.
- Select Busan → Shimonoseki and your boarding date.
- Choose your cabin category and enter passenger information exactly as shown on the passport.
- Complete payment and keep your reservation details available for check-in.
Check the Fare Calendar
Web fares vary by date. Kampu Ferry publishes a calendar showing fare categories for each departure date, so check the calendar before choosing your sailing.
Online fares do not include every port fee and fuel surcharge. Additional charges are collected according to the departure terminal and current surcharge rate.
05 · FERRY TERMINALS
Busan & Shimonoseki Passenger Terminals
This is an international route, so passengers must complete check-in, immigration and customs procedures at both ports.
Busan Port
- Terminal Busan Port International Passenger Terminal.
- Check-in Currently listed from 15:00 to 17:30.
- Counter Kampu Ferry check-in is handled on the 3rd floor.
- Tip Arrive early enough to complete international departure procedures comfortably.
Shimonoseki Port
- Terminal Shimonoseki Port International Terminal.
- Arrival Passengers arrive the following morning after the overnight crossing.
- Location A useful gateway for Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi and onward travel in western Japan.
- Return Shimonoseki check-in for the return ferry is currently listed from 15:00 to 18:00.
06 · BEFORE YOU BOARD
Overnight Ferry Boarding Checklist
Because this is an international overnight ferry, prepare your passport and boarding documents and allow enough time for immigration procedures before departure.
Passenger details used for the reservation should match the information printed in your passport.
Avoid arriving near the closing time because international check-in can become busy.
Kampu Ferry states that regular carry-on baggage under 2 metres total length and under 40 kg is free.
A bicycle packed in a bicycle bag is treated as normal carry-on baggage. Unpacked bicycles are charged separately.
Port facility charges and fuel surcharges may need to be paid separately at check-in.
Vessel inspections, weather and special events can result in schedule changes or suspended sailings.
07 · WHY TAKE THE FERRY?
Who Is the Busan to Shimonoseki Ferry Best For?
The main advantage of this route is that the journey takes place overnight. Instead of using daytime hours for transportation, you can sleep onboard and begin your Japan itinerary the following morning.
Useful for travelers continuing through Yamaguchi and other parts of western Japan.
Spend the night onboard rather than using daytime hours for the international transfer.
Ferry travel can be convenient for travelers carrying more luggage than on a short flight.
Choose from Second Class, First Class, Deluxe and Suite categories.
Restaurants, baths and onboard facilities make the crossing part of the travel experience.
08 · FAQ
Busan to Shimonoseki Ferry FAQ
Is there a direct ferry from Busan to Shimonoseki?
Yes. Kampu Ferry operates a direct overnight passenger ferry between Busan in South Korea and Shimonoseki in Japan.
How often does the Busan to Shimonoseki ferry operate?
Kampu Ferry currently describes the route as operating once a day. Always check the sailing calendar for your exact travel date.
Is the Busan to Shimonoseki ferry an overnight ferry?
Yes. It is an overnight international ferry. Passengers board in Busan in the afternoon and arrive in Shimonoseki the following morning.
Which ships operate between Busan and Shimonoseki?
The route is operated by HAMAYUU and SEONGHEE. The two vessels alternate according to the published operating schedule.
How much is the Busan to Shimonoseki ferry?
The regular 2026 Second Class one-way fare is ¥12,000. Kampu Ferry also uses date-based web fares, with Second Class prices starting from ¥6,000 on special-price dates. Additional taxes and surcharges apply.
What time is check-in at Busan Port?
Kampu Ferry currently lists Busan Port passenger check-in from 15:00 to 17:30. Arriving early is recommended.
Can I book the ferry online?
Yes. Kampu Ferry offers online booking and payment. Online reservations normally open two months before the boarding date and close at 13:00 on the day before departure.
Can the ferry schedule change?
Yes. Ferry schedules can change because of weather, vessel inspections and special operating conditions. Always confirm the latest schedule before traveling to Busan Port.