Cheap travel from Tokyo to Shanghai

What is the cheapest form of travel from Tokyo to Shanghai Departing from Tokyo the Week of August 17th, 2008 and Returning either the week of August 24th or 31st, 2008?
The best AIRfare I could find on Kayak was $924 8/20-8/27!

FETCH BOOTIES!!!!

Bus from Tokyo to Osaka: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2366_osaka.html#tokyo


Ferry from Osaka to Shanghai: http://www.seejapan.co.uk/transport/sea/international.html


Maybe not that much cheaper than flying, and WAY slower.

I've taken the overnight bus between Osaka and Tokyo for about US$50 each way and it's been really comfortable--seats that recline a lot, big heavy curtains making everything dark. I'm 5'7, though, so can't talk about comfort for anyone taller.

I've never taken the Shanghai ferry (or even been to Shanghai--yet!) but I've taken overnight ferries within Japan and I love them. Even the cheapest no-cabin option comes with a little pad to roll out and a blanket to use in your sleeping spot, and a sento, like a bathing room, where you can shower and soak in a hot bath. You can take the subway right out to the Osaka harbor, where the ferries leave from.

For August travel, booking ahead might be a good idea--and buying round trip rather than one way tickets should save you a little too.

Okay, I know you probably don't have enough time to add that much travel time into your trip, but it is an option!