Mitsubishi’s New Ferry Is a High-Tech Nod to Japanese Tradition

Japan’s maritime industry just took a sleek, energy-efficient leap forward. Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has launched KEYAKI, the first of two cutting-edge car ferries commissioned by Shinnihonkai Ferry and the Japan Railway Construction, Transport and Technology Agency (JRTT). Named after the revered Zelkova tree—a symbol of resilience—the vessel blends eco-conscious engineering with ceremonial tradition.

From Shipyard to Sea

The christening ceremony unfolded at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Enoura Plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture, where Shinnihonkai Ferry President Yasuo Iritani officially named the vessel. Soprano Ayako Tanaka punctuated the event with a dramatic rope-cutting performance, a maritime ritual symbolizing safe voyages. Slated for delivery in December 2025 after rigorous outfitting and sea trials, KEYAKI marks the ninth collaboration between Mitsubishi and Shinnihonkai Ferry—a partnership stretching back decades.

“This isn’t just another ferry. It’s a statement about Japan’s commitment to sustainable shipping,”

Engineering Meets Efficiency

What sets KEYAKI apart? Its hull. Mitsubishi’s proprietary KATANA BOW design—paired with a buttock-flow stern—slashes propulsion resistance by 5%, a first for Japanese ferries. The streamlined shape mimics the precision of its namesake sword, slicing through waves with minimal energy waste. But the innovation doesn’t stop there: an advanced roll-damping system hybridizes anti-rolling tanks and fin stabilizers, ensuring smoother crossings even in rough seas.

Connecting North and South

Once operational, KEYAKI will ply the 600-mile route between Otaru in Hokkaido and Maizuru in Kyoto Prefecture, bridging Japan’s northern and western hubs. For passengers, the ferry promises quieter, more stable journeys; for the environment, reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. In an industry often slow to adopt green tech, Mitsubishi’s latest build signals a shift—one that honors tradition while steering toward a cleaner future.