NARUTO

• JPNRU
• Latitude: 34.1892
• Longitude: 134.616
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Naruto Tokushima Prefecture 772-0000 Japan

Naruto is a city located in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island in Japan. It is renowned for the Naruto Whirlpool (Naruto no Uzushio), one of the largest whirlpools in the world, which occurs in the Naruto Strait. As such, the port of Naruto serves as a vital access point for both commercial maritime activities and tourism.

Port of Naruto Description and Specifications:

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Approx. 34°12′N 134°36′E
• Region: Tokushima Prefecture, northeastern Shikoku Island
• Neighboring Waters: Naruto Strait, which connects the Inland Sea of Japan with the Kii Channel

Port Infrastructure:

• Wharves and Berths: Naruto port features several piers and berthing facilities designed to accommodate various types of vessels including cargo ships, ferries, and smaller boats.
• Water Depth: The depth at the wharves typically accommodates medium-sized vessels; details would need to be verified based on the specific quay.
• Port Services: Standard services including loading and unloading, bunkering, and ship repairs are available. Tourism-related services like sightseeing boat tours are prominent.

Shipping and Cargo:

• Cargo Types: The port handles a variety of cargo including industrial goods, raw materials, and agricultural products.
• Ferry Services: Ferry routes connect Naruto to nearby locations, which is significant for local travel and logistics.

Passenger Services:

• Tourism: Key points of interest for tourists include the Naruto Whirlpools and the Ōnaruto Bridge. There are various tour boats that operate from the port, offering close-up views of the whirlpools.
• Cruise Ships: Smaller cruise ships sometimes call at Naruto due to its scenic and cultural attractions.

Nearby Facilities:

• Naruto Park: Located near the port, offering panoramic views of the Naruto Strait and the whirlpools.
• Otsuka Museum of Art: One of the largest exhibition spaces in Japan, located within a short distance from the port.

Environmental Considerations:

• Tidal Flows: The Naruto Strait experiences some of the fastest tidal currents in Japan. Mariners must navigate carefully due to the strong currents that create the whirlpools.
• Environmental Protection: Measures are in place to protect the unique marine environment, particularly because of its significance to the natural phenomena and tourism.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: The port is accessible via major highways including the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway.
• Rail Access: While Naruto doesn't have a major railway station, nearby Tokushima City provides connections to other parts of Shikoku and Honshu.
• Airports: The nearest airport is Tokushima Airport, approximately 20 kilometers away, offering domestic and some international flights.

Notable Considerations:

• Due to the unique marine conditions, specific navigational expertise is necessary for vessels docking or passing through the Naruto Strait.
• The port plays a dual role in facilitating economic activities and serving as a hub for tourism, making it essential to balance industrial activities with environmental and tourism management.

For specific operational details, mariners and business entities are advised to consult port authorities or official maritime directories.