Dominique Dufour is working on an illustrated guide-reportage titled Japan by Sea, which explores the experience of traveling by ferry across Japan's vast network of 14,125 islands. The project is structured around 15 ferry crossings, each designed to explore a specific theme or question about Japan, such as its historical isolation and the significance of ports and maritime culture. The initial phase of the project took place during the summer of 2026, during which Dufour traveled across several ferry routes, from Hokkaidō in the north to Kyūshū in the south. These journeys included both night crossings and routes that connected distant islands, as well as shorter services linking nearby isles. This fieldwork aimed to capture the diversity of Japan's maritime travel experiences. To continue the project and produce the book, Dufour has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Ulule, a platform used for raising funds for creative projects. Supporters can contribute financially and pre-order the book, becoming part of what the author calls his "Founding Crew." This initiative not only helps fund the project but also builds a community of readers and travelers interested in Japan's maritime culture. Japan by Sea seeks to provide both a narrative journey and practical advice for those interested in traveling by ferry in Japan. It highlights the country's unique status as an archipelago, emphasizing the role of sea travel in connecting its many islands and shaping its cultural and historical identity.