The PanStar Miracle, PanStar Group’s stunning new luxury cruise ferry, is setting sail on its inaugural international voyage—a breathtaking 3-night, 4-day odyssey from Yeongilman Port in Pohang to the picturesque shores of western Japan, departing 5 June 2025. The cruise will visit Maizuru in Kyoto Prefecture and Sakaiminato in Tottori Prefecture before returning to Pohang.
This new route is expected to run at least four times a year, as a seasonal route, in addition to PanStar’s traditional cruise routes between Busan and Osaka. This new luxury cruise tour cements PanStar Group’s agreement with Pohang City to boost local tourism and job creation.
Pohang – Korea’s Coastal Gem
Nestled on South Korea’s scenic east coast, Pohang is a charming seaside city known for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cultural sites, and breathtaking coastal views. Whether you’re strolling along Yeongildae Beach at sunrise, exploring historical temples, or enjoying fresh seafood by the shore, Pohang promises a refreshing escape from the everyday.
Easily accessible—just 2.5 hours by train or 3.5 hours by bus from Seoul—Pohang is perfect for a weekend getaway or a leisurely stop on a longer journey.
K-drama fans will recognize its picture-perfect backdrops from beloved series like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Run On, and When the Camellia Blooms. From screen-worthy scenery to authentic local experiences, Pohang is a perfect destination to reconnect with the rhythm of the sea.
Kyoto by the Sea – Abundant natural splendor
Reaching Japan’s coastal side, Maizuru is home to the lively Toretore Fish Market, a coastal treasure trove known for its ultra-fresh seafood and authentic charm. Home to the largest fish market in Kyoto Prefecture—and one of the biggest on the Sea of Japan, this bustling hub is a haven for seafood lovers, where the fish traders of the Maizuru Fish Market, representing the Kyoto Prefecture Fishery Association, run their own specialty shops.
Here, the day’s catch is proudly displayed—swimming crab, glistening sashimi, and the finest sushi north of Kyoto. It’s a feast for the senses, where guests can mingle with local fishmongers, sample delicacies straight from the sea, and savour the maritime spirit of Japan in every bite.
One of the many highlights of this voyage is a visit to Amanohashidate Viewland, where guests are treated to one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Recognized as one of the nation’s Three Scenic Views, Amanohashidate—literally “bridge to heaven”—is a slender, pine-covered sandbar that appears to float between sky and sea. The other “top Japan views” are Matsushima in Miyagi and Miyajima in Hiroshima.
The journey to the hilltop begins with a gentle monorail ride through whispering trees, offering a tranquil ascent and a taste of the beauty to come. As the monorail glides upward, a panoramic vista will impress.
Tucked along the Sea of Japan in northern Kyoto Prefecture, nestled within the gentle embrace of Ine Bay, lies one of Japan’s most enchanting hidden gems—the village of Ine (also known as the Venice of Japan). Often hailed as one of the most beautiful villages in Japan, Ine is famed for its unique funaya, or “boat houses,” where the rhythms of life are lived in harmony with the sea.
These charming waterfront dwellings, with boat garages below and living quarters above, are a living testament to the delicate balance between daily life and nature – a way of life that has endured for centuries. Strolling through Ine feels like stepping into a living postcard—quiet, picturesque, and utterly authentic. It’s a rare chance to witness Japan’s coastal heritage preserved in its most graceful form.
Step ashore at Sakaiminato, a charming coastal town in Japan’s Tottori Prefecture, and let your senses roam through stories of samurai, manga legends, and exquisite gardens.
A floral paradise set on Daikon Island, Yushien Garden will enchant visitors with vibrant seasonal blooms, artfully arranged landscapes, and tranquil walking paths. Especially famed for its peonies and autumn foliage, it’s a living canvas of Japanese gardening mastery.
One of Japan’s few remaining original wooden castles, Matsue Castle offers sweeping views and a glimpse into the noble spirit of the samurai. Built in 1611, this national treasure is steeped in feudal lore and architectural elegance.
Embrace your inner child on Mizuki Shigeru Road –a street lined with over 170 bronze statues inspired by the yokai (spirits) of renowned manga artist Mizuki Shigeru. More than just a manga tribute, it’s a celebration of Japanese folklore brought to life in playful, photogenic form.
PanStar Miracle – A New Era of Cruise Ferry Comfort
Launched in April 2025, the PanStar Miracle is a 22,000-ton, 171-meter-long vessel designed to blend the elegance of a boutique hotel with the functionality of a modern ferry.
Passengers can enjoy a range of facilities designed for relaxation and entertainment:
- Outdoor Infinity Pool: Temperature-controlled for year-round use.
- Jogging Track: For fitness enthusiasts to enjoy a run with a view.
- Sauna and Therapy Rooms: Spaces dedicated to relaxation and wellness.
- Fitness Center: Equipped with modern exercise equipment.
- VIP Lounge: An exclusive area for premium passengers.
- Dining Options: Includes a buffet-style restaurant offering Korean and Japanese dishes, a café, and a duty-free shop.
With 102 elegantly appointed cabins for up to 355 passengers, the PanStar Miracle is a floating hotel and entertainment centre. Imagine the serenity of your own private balcony, the exhilaration of a morning jog on the open deck, afternoons by the outdoor infinity pool, and evenings in the VIP panoramic lounge.
From a rejuvenating sauna and therapy room to a GX fitness studio, café, casino game bar, and lush outdoor lawn garden, every detail is crafted for comfort, wellness, and indulgence—setting a new standard for ocean travel.
As the luxury cruise ferry glides toward Japan’s western coast, each port reveals a chapter of timeless beauty and cultural intrigue. The cruise includes guided tours at different stops.
Onboard entertainment includes performances by trot singer Park Jin, the trio ‘Real Plays,’ a singing contest, a casino event, a masquerade ball, and a DJ party.
Each room on the ship is designed to cater to different needs and tastes, ensuring a unique onboard experience.
The PanStar Miracle isn’t just a cruise—it’s a bridge between worlds, where Korean charm meets Japanese elegance, and where the sea becomes your path to discovery. From the moment you step aboard, you’re immersed in five-star comfort, gourmet delights, and panoramic sea views that soothe the soul.
But what truly sets this journey apart is the rich cultural tapestry that unfolds at every port—from the floating villages of Ine to the fairytale streets of Sakaiminato. Whether you’re strolling through ancient castles, feasting at bustling fish markets, or pausing to take in a sunset over the Sea of Japan, each moment invites you to slow down, connect deeply, and travel meaningfully.
In a world that often rushes by, the PanStar Miracle offers a rare gift: time to breathe, reflect, and rediscover the joy of the journey.
Let the sea change you. Let this voyage be your miracle.
For more information about the different room types and to book the cruise, check out their official website here.
