This was the 2nd and 3rd time I have been on a Japanese ferry. They are comfortable, but most importantly, cheap.
Our trip was just under $130 each way. It would have been closer to $200 by plane, which is a hassle and it would
be well over $300 each way by train. It would have also taken 12 hours by train with several changes.

 

There's a place to drink beer and to try on clothes and a place for a tree to grow.
One can walk on the deck watch a mini movie or play a video game.
The 2nd class room has 2 beds and a window and decent space.
The boat itself. The boat store and smaller restaurant.
The big buffet room. A smoke stack. Big trucks coming out.