FerryConnect

Japan

Osaka → Shibushi (Kagoshima)

The overnight Pacific ferry from Osaka to Shibushi in eastern Kagoshima Prefecture, run by Sunflower Satsuma and Sunflower Kirishima (in service since 2018). It is the only long-distance ferry from Kansai to southern Kyushu.

Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) takes About 13h 45m – 15h 55m across the Pacific Ocean, operated by MOL Sunflower. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: one overnight sailing daily in each direction.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: ferry-sunflower.co.jp · ferry-sunflower.co.jp · How we verify

Return crossing: Shibushi (Kagoshima) to Osaka

MOL Sunflower also sails Shibushi (Kagoshima) to Osaka, taking About 13h 45m – 15h 55m. Northbound sailings arrive in Osaka between 07:40 and 08:50 depending on the day.

Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Osaka 17:55 (Sun 17:00) → Shibushi 08:55; Shibushi 17:55 (Sat 18:30, Sun 17:00) → Osaka 07:40–08:50

Published departure times

  • 17:55 from Osaka (Mon–Sat)
  • 17:00 from Osaka (Sun)
  • 17:55 from Shibushi (Mon–Fri)

Return: Northbound sailings arrive in Osaka between 07:40 and 08:50 depending on the day.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official MOL Sunflower timetable →Check prices & book on Direct Ferries →

Source: MOL Sunflower Osaka–Shibushi timetable page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Osaka and Shibushi (Kagoshima)

📐 320 Nautical Miles
Osaka⇄Shibushi (Kagoshima)
⏱ About 13h 45m – 15h 55m · 📐 320 nm
⚡ All operators, one booking

Ready to cross from Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima)?

Book your crossing with Direct Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
MOL Sunflower13h 45m – 15h 55mSunflower Satsuma, Sunflower Kirishima

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

320 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The nearest station to Osaka Terminal 2 is Trade Center-mae on the Osaka Metro New Tram (not Ferry Terminal station); a free shuttle bus links Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 in about 5 minutes
  • The “Sunflower Liner” express bus runs between Shibushi port and Kagoshima-Chuo station, free for ferry passengers under a current campaign
  • JR Shibushi station is about 5 minutes by taxi from Shibushi port

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima)?
The crossing typically takes About 13h 45m – 15h 55m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry sail?
Osaka 17:55 (Sun 17:00) → Shibushi 08:55; Shibushi 17:55 (Sat 18:30, Sun 17:00) → Osaka 07:40–08:50. This is the pattern published in the MOL Sunflower Osaka–Shibushi timetable page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima)?
MOL Sunflower operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Osaka to Shibushi (Kagoshima) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Osaka from Shibushi (Kagoshima) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 320 nautical miles (roughly 593 km).