Takamatsu to Shodoshima Ferry and High-Speed Boat Fares and Schedules

How to Get from Takamatsu to Shodoshima – Choosing the Best Transport Option

Shodoshima, affectionately known as the Island of Olives and famous for Angel Road, is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations.

When you start researching how to get from Takamatsu to Shodoshima, you may find yourself asking, “Which route is the smoothest?”, “What about travel time and cost?”, “Which departure point is easiest?” There are actually more options than you might expect, and that can make the choice a little confusing.

This article organizes the transport options from Takamatsu in an easy-to-understand way, starting with the quickest overview. By prioritizing what matters most to you—time, cost, or travel style—you can easily choose the best option.

Let go of any small doubts and get ready for your Seto Inland Sea trip with a lighter mind.

Travel to Shodoshima via Ferry or High-Speed Boat from Takamatsu Port

Getting to Shodoshima is very straightforward. Simply board a ferry or a high-speed boat from Takamatsu Port.

The main arrival port is Tonosho, and ferries also operate to Ikeda Port. Which port is more convenient depends on your planned destinations and accommodation location. We’ll cover how to choose between them later.

Ferries offer a relaxing ride and allow you to bring cars or motorbikes. High-speed boats arrive faster, making them perfect for day trips or short stays. Both operate frequently, making travel from Takamatsu easier than you might think.

Next, we’ll look at estimated travel times, fares, and tips for choosing the right option so you can quickly decide what works best for your trip.

Location and Access to Takamatsu Port

Takamatsu Port is within walking distance of both JR Takamatsu Station and Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station—about 10 minutes on foot from either.

Follow the signs for “Ferry Terminal” or “High-Speed Boat Terminal” to reach the right boarding area without getting lost.

Walking route from JR Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Port

From JR Takamatsu Station, there is a covered walkway that connects directly to the port. This makes it convenient, as you can reach Takamatsu Port without getting wet even on rainy days.

Walking route from JR Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Port ferry terminal (about 10 minutes)

If you are taking the high-speed boat, it is quicker to head directly to the terminal without using the covered walkway.

Walking route from JR Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Port high-speed boat terminal (about 5 minutes)

Walking route from Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Takamatsu Port

Walking route from Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Takamatsu Port ferry terminal (about 10 minutes)

Walking route from Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station to Takamatsu Port high-speed boat terminal (about 5 minutes)

From Takamatsu Airport, the limousine bus is convenient. It takes 53 minutes and stops directly at Takamatsu Port, so get off at the “Ferry Terminal” bus stop. The port will be right in front of you when you get off.

If you plan to drive or ride to Takamatsu Port and leave your vehicle before heading to Shodoshima, check parking options in advance. There is no parking at the port itself, but several pay parking lots are located nearby.

Details about the types of vessels, ticket counters, vending machines, and boarding areas will be explained later. For now, just remember how to get to Takamatsu Port.

Transport Options and Routes from Takamatsu Port to Shodoshima

From Takamatsu Port, you have two choices to reach Shodoshima: ferry or high-speed boat.

Ferries can carry a large number of passengers (420–490 people) and can also transport cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

High-speed boats carry fewer passengers (125–129 people) and cannot transport vehicles, but they arrive in about half the time compared to ferries.

Ferries to Tonosho Port and Ikeda Port are operated by different companies, while the high-speed boat goes only to Tonosho Port.

Frequencies, travel times, and fares are based on the standard schedule and may vary depending on the season and day of the week. Check each operator’s latest information before departure.

Vehicle fares vary depending on length (for cars) and engine displacement (for motorbikes). High-speed boats cannot carry vehicles, including folded bicycles.

Choosing Your Transport Based on Time, Cost, or Vehicle Needs

When deciding between ferry and high-speed boat, it’s best to choose based on your priorities rather than comparing all the numbers in detail.

Do you want the shortest travel time, the lowest cost, the ability to bring a vehicle, or the most comfort? Decide your main priority first, and the choice will be much easier.

The quick reference table below summarizes the best option based on different needs.

For day trips, a high-speed boat is recommended to maximize your time on Shodoshima. If staying overnight or having a flexible schedule, a ferry offers a relaxing cruise.

Once you have one clear priority, choosing becomes much simpler. Select the transport that suits your travel style and enjoy crossing the Seto Inland Sea.

Choosing Your Arrival Port Based on Destination or Accommodation (Tonosho Port / Ikeda Port)

Choose your arrival port according to the places you want to visit, your accommodation location, and your means of transport.

Ferries operate to both Tonosho Port and Ikeda Port, while high-speed boats only go to Tonosho Port.

Tonosho Port is located on the west side of Shodoshima and is close to Angel Road, the Yokai Art Museum, and the Dobuchi Strait.

Ikeda Port is more centrally located and is closer to Olive Park, Furusato Village, Kankakei Gorge, and the Twenty-Four Eyes Movie Village.

For smooth travel, match your port to the main sightseeing area you plan to focus on: Tonosho Port for the west side (Tonosho town center) and Ikeda Port for the south–central area. Buses run from both ports.

Ticket Purchase, Boarding Areas, and Boarding Procedures (Ferry / High-Speed Boat)

The basic process on the day is buy ticket → wait → board.

After purchasing or collecting your ticket, check the boarding gate number.

For ferries, buy or collect your ticket at the ferry ticket office, then board from Gate 1 or Gate 2.

For high-speed boats, buy your ticket at the high-speed boat ticket office, then board from Gate 3.

About Advance Web Reservations

The availability of online reservations and the required steps on the day are as follows.

• Even if you book online, you must check in at the ticket office on the day. Have your reservation number or confirmation screen ready.
• Motorbikes and bicycles can only be ticketed on the day; no advance booking is available.

Ferry online reservations can be made from each operator’s official website:

• Tonosho-bound ferry: Shodoshima Ferry Co., Ltd.
• Ikeda-bound ferry: Kokusai Ryobi Ferry

Same-Day Ticket Purchases

On the day of travel, ticket sales generally start about 30 minutes before departure. During holiday periods, queues can form quickly, so arriving a bit earlier is recommended.

Boarding Procedure for Walk-On Passengers

Once you have purchased your ticket, wait in the lobby.

When boarding time approaches, an announcement will be made. Check the posted gate number and proceed to the gate as instructed.

Boarding Procedure for Cars, Motorbikes, and Bicycles

If you are bringing a car, motorbike, or bicycle on the ferry, head to the ferry boarding area located on the north side of Takamatsu Port.

Follow staff instructions to park (cars in the vehicle lane, motorbikes and bicycles in front of the ferry ticket office), then purchase your ticket or check in.

Afterward, wait with your vehicle until boarding is announced, then board as directed. Vehicle check-in times are often earlier than for walk-on passengers, so arrive with extra time to spare.

Ferry and High-Speed Boat Timetables and Departure/Arrival Time Comparison

You can also choose which vessel to take based on the departure time you prefer or the time you want to arrive on Shodoshima.

Below are the timetables for each transport option, followed by a combined table showing all departures and arrivals. Compare the departure and arrival times for the two ferries and one high-speed boat service.

As of August 2025. Please check each operator’s timetable for the most up-to-date schedule.

• Tonosho-bound ferry: Shodoshima Ferry Co., Ltd. Ferry Timetable
• Tonosho-bound high-speed boat: Shodoshima Ferry Co., Ltd. High - Speed Boat Timetable
• Ikeda-bound ferry: Kokusai Ryobi Ferry Timetable

Useful Tips to Know (Discounts & Special Ferries)

Knowing a few “pro tips” can make your trip preparations much smoother.

Here we’ll summarize round-trip discounts, membership benefits, and the special wrapping ferries you might be lucky enough to ride.

Save with a Round-Trip Ticket

Buying a round-trip ticket is slightly cheaper than purchasing two one-way tickets. If your return date is set, choose a round-trip ticket for better value.

Fares, discount rates, and applicable categories are subject to change. Always check the official website before departure for the latest conditions.

Round-trip tickets may have a validity period.

Montbell Members Get 10% Off

For Tonosho-bound ferries only, Montbell Club members receive a 10% discount on car boarding (3–under 6m) fares, including both the vehicle and accompanying passengers.

You must present your membership card. Please check conditions and applicable services in advance.

Wrapping Ferries Operate on the Tonosho Route

On the Tonosho route, ferries featuring special collaborative wrapping designs operate regularly.

• “Yadon, Udon Prefecture PR Team” wrapping ferry
• “Teasing Master Takagi-san” wrapping ferry
• “Olive Shima-chan” wrapping ferry

You can check the wrapping ferry schedule here: Timetable - Shodoshima Ferry

Choose the Best Transport for a Smooth and Efficient Shodoshima Trip

Shodoshima is much closer and more accessible than you might think.

By choosing the right combination of ferry or high-speed boat and arrival port for your travel style, you can minimize transport worries and maximize sightseeing time.

We’ve now covered all the key points for getting from Takamatsu to Shodoshima. All that’s left is to decide based on your priorities. Enjoy your sea crossing and make the most of your time on the island.

Pick the best method for you, and have a smooth journey to Shodoshima. Wishing you a wonderful trip.

Experience the high-speed boat ride to Shodoshima for yourself. If you want to get a feel for the atmosphere, this is for you:

35-Minute Fast Ferry Ride from Takamatsu to Shodoshima: Experience the Olive Marine

Reach Shodoshima’s Tonosho Port from Takamatsu Port in just 35 minutes aboard the Olive Marine fast ferry. This guide covers the boarding process, onboard experience, and travel tips with photos.