ISHINOMAKI

• JPISM
• Latitude: 38.409
• Longitude: 141.292
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Ishinomaki Miyagi Prefecture Japan

Ishinomaki is a vital marine port located in the Miyagi Prefecture on the eastern coast of Japan. Positioned along the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Ishinomaki has long served as a key location for maritime activities, including commercial fishing, shipping, and logistics. Here’s a detailed description and specification of the Ishinomaki port:

General Description:

• Location: Ishinomaki is situated in the Tohoku region of Japan, facing the Pacific Ocean.
• Coordinates: Approximately 38°26' N latitude and 141°18' E longitude.
• Access: The port is accessible via various highways and the JR Ishinomaki Line, making it well-connected to regional and national transportation networks.
• Significance: The port has historical importance, serving as a connecting point for trade and transportation within northern Japan.

Facilities and Features:

1. Harbor Layout:

   • The harbor is divided into several basins and quays which accommodate different types of vessels, including cargo ships, fishing boats, and passenger ferries.
   • Breakwaters and jetties are in place to protect the harbor from severe weather and heavy seas.

2. Terminals:

   • Cargo Terminals: Equipped with modern facilities for handling containerized and bulk cargoes. Warehouses and storage areas are available for goods waiting for import or export processes.
   • Fishing Port: One of the main centers for the local fishing industry, providing docking space, refrigeration facilities, and a fish market.
   • Passenger Terminal: Serves ferry services that connect Ishinomaki with nearby islands and coastal regions.

3. Navigation:

   • Draft: The port can accommodate different vessel sizes, with channel depths typically ranging from 6 to 12 meters, allowing for medium to large-sized vessels.
   • Tidal Information: The tidal range can affect docking operations, with variations needing to be considered during planning and operations.

4. Support Services:

   • Pilotage: Available for assisting in the safe navigation of vessels entering and leaving the port.
   • Tug Services: Provided to aid in the maneuvering of large and heavily loaded ships.
   • Ship Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair services and dry docking facilities are present to support the maintenance of vessels.

Operations:

• Cargo Handling:

  • The port handles various types of cargo including containers, bulk goods like coal and grain, and specialized cargo such as frozen fish and seafood.
  • Advanced cranes and handling equipment facilitate efficient loading and unloading processes.

• Fishing Activities:

  • The port of Ishinomaki is a hub for the fishing industry with facilities for processing and distributing fresh and frozen seafood.
  • Regular auctions and wholesale markets are held to support the local and regional seafood supply chain.

Infrastructure and Connectivity:

• Road and Rail Access: The port is well-integrated with the national transportation network via highways and railways, which enable smooth transit of goods to and from the port.
• Utilities and Services: Provision of essential services such as freshwater supply, waste disposal, and fuel bunkering.

Strategic Importance:

• Economic Impact: Ishinomaki port plays a crucial role in the local economy, providing employment and supporting regional industries.
• Disaster Recovery: After the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, significant efforts were made to restore and enhance the port’s infrastructure, underscoring its importance in disaster recovery and resilience planning.

Environmental and Safety Regulations:

• Environmental Conservation: Strict regulations are in place to minimize environmental impacts, including measures to prevent pollution and manage waste.
• Safety Standards: Compliance with international and national maritime safety standards is mandatory, ensuring safe operations for all port activities.

In summary, the port of Ishinomaki is a key maritime hub that combines modern facilities with strategic connectivity, serving various industries from fishing to international trade. Its ongoing development and the resilience planning following past natural disasters highlight its crucial role in the regional and national economy of Japan.