HITAKATSU

• Latitude: 34.6547
•
• Longitude: 129.473
•
• North China
•
• Port in Japan

Address: Tsushima Nagasaki Prefecture Japan

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Hitakatsu, Japan

General Overview: Hitakatsu is a port located in Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Nestled on Tsushima Island, which lies strategically in the Korea Strait between Japan and South Korea, Hitakatsu is one of the key ports serving the island, fostering connectivity and economic activities in the region. The port is particularly significant for ferry services, linking Tsushima Island with mainland Japan and South Korea.

Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: 34.6842° N Longitude: 129.4669° E

Functionality & Services:

• Passenger Ferries: Hitakatsu port serves as a primary terminal for passenger ferries, offering regular services to and from Hakata (Fukuoka) in Japan and Busan in South Korea. This connectivity positions Hitakatsu as a crucial gateway for tourism and local commuting.
• Cargo Handling: While primarily a passenger port, Hitakatsu also handles cargo, albeit on a smaller scale compared to major commercial harbors. This includes the shipment of goods and supplies essential for the local population.
• Fishing: The port supports local fisheries by providing facilities for fishing vessels, making it an important node for the island's local fishing industry.

Facilities:

• Passenger Terminal: Equipped with waiting lounges, ticketing services, and customs processing areas. The terminal is designed to handle a significant number of passengers, particularly during peak travel seasons.
• Berthing Spaces: Multiple berths are available to accommodate ferry vessels, smaller cargo ships, and fishing vessels.
• Customs and Immigration: Facilities to handle international travel processes, including customs and immigration for routes to South Korea.
• Parking Areas: Space for vehicular parking to serve passengers and visitors.
• Storage and Warehousing: Limited storage facilities for cargo and goods, essential for local supply chains.

Infrastructure and Accessibility:

• Harbor Depth: The depth at berths typically ranges to allow medium-sized vessels, including ferries and small cargo ships, safe docking.
• Navigation: Port entry is marked with navigational aids to ensure the safe passage of vessels. Night-time operations are supported by appropriate lighting and signals.
• Transport Links: The port is connected by local road networks facilitating easy access to Tsushima’s broader transport infrastructure. Bus services and taxis are available for local transit.

Environmental and Security Measures:

• Environmental Protection: Adherence to regulations for minimizing environmental impacts, including waste management and pollution control. Initiatives are in place to protect the marine and coastal ecosystem of Tsushima.
• Security: The port is secured by the Japanese Coast Guard and local law enforcement to ensure the safety of passengers and goods. Regular checks and patrols are conducted.

Economic and Cultural Importance: Hitakatsu port is integral to the local economy, fostering trade and tourism. It also serves as a cultural bridge, enabling the exchange of cultural and social ties between Japan and South Korea.

Future Developments: There are ongoing discussions and potential plans aimed at modernizing the port’s infrastructure to handle increasing passenger traffic and to enhance cargo handling capabilities. This includes possible updates to the passenger terminal and berthing facilities to accommodate larger vessels.

Summary: Hitakatsu port is a vital access point on Tsushima Island, supporting passenger travel, local commerce, and fishing activities. Its strategic location and facilities make it a significant hub fostering connections between Japan and South Korea.