First Ferryboat From China Arrives in Japan

The first ferryboat to sail from China to Japan since World War II arrived in the western port city of Kobe on Wednesday after a two-day trip from Shanghai, ferry officials said.

The vessel’s once-a-week voyages between Shanghai and Kobe-Osaka will begin July 6.

The ferry, Jian Zhen, which makes the transit across the East China Sea in 48 hours, can carry 500 passengers and is to transport cargo containers. Passenger fares range from the equivalent of $88 for a space to sleep on a mat to $400 for a suite for two.

Officials of the joint venture said 38 officials of China’s and Shanghai’s governments arrived on the ferry Wednesday.