HIWASA

• JPHWS
• Latitude: 33.7322
• Longitude: 134.545
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Hiwasa, Tokushima Japan

Hiwasa Marine Port, Japan

Location

• Coordinates: Latitude 33.6611° N, Longitude 134.4872° E
• Region: Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan

General Overview Hiwasa is a small yet historically rich port located within the town of Minami in Tokushima. It's primarily known for its scenic beauty, cultural significance, and contribution to local fisheries rather than large-scale commercial shipping.

Port Specifications

1. Type of Port: Coastal / Fishing Port

   • Primarily accommodates local fishing vessels and small boats rather than large commercial cargo ships.

2. Port Infrastructure:

   • Berthing Facilities:
     • Small piers and wharves designed for fishing vessels, local boats, and potentially small tourist ferries.
   • Storage Areas: Limited facilities mainly for fishing equipment and local produce storage; no large-scale commercial warehouses.
   • Navigation:
     • Basic navigational aids available for local fishermen and small craft.
     • Entry is straightforward for small vessels, but larger ships require careful navigation due to smaller water depths and limited docking space.

3. Depth:

   • Approach Channel and Alongside: Limited depth, generally suitable for small vessels. Depth details may need to be confirmed with local authorities.

4. Services Available:

   • Fueling: Basic fueling services for smaller vessels.
   • Repairs: Limited local repair services, primarily focused on fishing boats and small crafts.
   • Provisions: Local provisioning available, with an emphasis on refueling and fresh supplies from the town's markets.

5. Operational Information:

   • Port Authority: Managed locally by municipal authorities in Minami.
   • Pilotage: Typically not necessary for small vessels; local knowledge is often sufficient.
   • Tidal Information: Moderate tidal range; local tide tables should be consulted for precise planning.

6. Economic and Cultural Significance:

   • Primary Use: Fishing and local tourism.
   • Cultural Sites: Nearby Hiwasa Castle and Yakuō-ji Temple attract visitors. The Hiwasa Chelonian Museum, focusing on turtles, is another point of interest.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Emphasis on sustainability due to the region’s reliance on fisheries and tourism.
   • Active measures to preserve the local marine ecosystem and support community-based conservation efforts.

8. Connectivity:

   • Road Access: Well-connected by local roads to the wider transportation network of Shikoku.
   • Nearest Airport: Tokushima Awaodori Airport, approximately 60 km away, serves domestic flights.

Notes for Visitors and Users:

• The port serves as a gateway to experience traditional Japanese maritime culture and local cuisine.
• Tourist activities include boat tours, fishing expeditions, and visits to nearby historical and cultural attractions.

Summary Hiwasa is a quaint, culturally significant port on the island of Shikoku, Japan, primarily serving local fishing operations and tourism. While it lacks extensive commercial shipping facilities, it offers a wealth of local charm, scenic beauty, and cultural heritage, making it an integral part of the local community and economy.