MIIKE

• Latitude: 33.0076
•
• Longitude: 130.409
•
• Japan Coast
•
• Port in Japan

Address: Omuta Fukuoka Prefecture 836-0004 Japan

Web-site: http://www.pref.fukuoka.lg.jp/somu/kowanshiten/miike.html

Miike Port, often referred to as Miike Ko, is a significant marine port located in the Kyushu region of Japan, specifically in Fukuoka Prefecture. It plays a crucial role in the local economy and maritime industry.

General Description:

Miike Port is positioned on the western coast of Japan, flanked by the Ariake Sea. It has a long history intertwined with the local coal mining industry, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over the years, the port has diversified and modernized to support various industrial and commercial activities.

Specifications:

1. Location Coordinates:

   • Latitude: Approximately 33.0193° N
   • Longitude: Approximately 130.4444° E

2. Port Facilities:

   • Berths: Multiple berths cater to different types of vessels including cargo ships, bulk carriers, and smaller vessels.
   • Depth: The channel and berths typically accommodate vessels with drafts up to 10 meters, though this can vary depending on specific terminals.
   • Storage: The port includes significant storage facilities for dry bulk and general cargo, including warehouses and open yard spaces.
   • Equipment: Equipped with cranes, conveyor belts, and other handling equipment essential for loading and unloading operations.

3. Cargo Handling:

   • Bulk Cargo: Historically focused on coal, the port now handles a variety of bulk cargoes such as cement, minerals, and agricultural products.
   • General Cargo: Containers, industrial goods, machinery, and various other general cargoes.

4. Connectivity:

   • Road and Rail: Good connections to the national road network and proximate railway services, facilitating efficient inland transportation.
   • Air: Closest major airport is Fukuoka Airport, providing connectivity for personnel and high-value small cargo.

5. Operational Hours:

   • Typically operates 24/7, although specific terminal working hours can vary.

6. Support Services:

   • Piloting and Tug Assistance: Available to assist in berthing and unberthing of vessels.
   • Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities and services for minor repairs and maintenance.
   • Bunkering: Provision of fuel and fresh water.

7. Safety and Environmental Compliance:

   • Adheres to stringent Japanese regulations and international maritime safety and environmental standards. Efforts are made to minimize environmental impact, including waste management and pollution controls.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• Miike Port plays a pivotal role in the regional economy. Its strategic position in the Ariake Sea provides advantageous access for both domestic and international maritime routes.
• It supports various industries including energy (coal and alternative fuels), agriculture, and manufacturing, significantly contributing to the industrial framework of the Kyushu region.

Development and Future Plans:

• Ongoing upgrades aim to enhance capacity and efficiency, including modernization of infrastructure and adoption of advanced technologies for port operations.
• There are initiatives to further diversify the types of cargo handled and to bolster the port’s role in energy and renewable sectors.

In summary, Miike Port is a versatile and historically significant port in Japan, equipped with extensive facilities to handle a variety of cargo and supported by robust connectivity to surrounding transport infrastructure. Its continuous development ensures it remains a vital asset to the region's economy.