New Direct Ferry From Taiwan to Japan Sets Sail
Why It Matters
The ferry creates a low‑cost, scenic alternative to air travel, likely boosting tourism flows and deepening economic ties between Taiwan and Japan’s Okinawa region.
Key Takeaways
- •Yaima Maru ferry launches direct Keelung‑Ishigaki route for travelers.
- •Journey takes 7‑8 hours, comparable to short flight.
- •One‑way fare priced around $65 during trial period.
- •Trial runs until end of June; weekly trips planned July.
- •Ishigaki draws over 200,000 Taiwanese tourists annually, boosting demand.
Summary
A newly renovated ferry, the Yaima Maru, began operating a direct link between Keelung, Taiwan, and Ishigaki Island, Japan. The inaugural voyage departed at night and arrived early Friday, offering a 7‑8‑hour sea journey that rivals the one‑hour flight in convenience. The service is currently in a trial phase through June, with one‑way tickets priced at roughly $65. During this period the ferry provides a range of accommodations, from 15‑person Japanese‑style rooms to luxury family suites, and aims to increase frequency to multiple trips per week starting in July. Ishigaki’s mayor attended the launch ceremony, underscoring the route’s significance for both sides. The island already attracts more than 200,000 Taiwanese visitors each year via air and cruise, making the ferry a strategic addition to the tourism ecosystem. If successful, the maritime link could diversify travel options, stimulate regional tourism, and position the ferry journey itself as a vacation experience, potentially reshaping travel patterns between Taiwan and Japan.
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