OFUNATO

• JPOFT
• Latitude: 39.0658
• Longitude: 141.73
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Japan

OFUNATO Marine Port Description and Specifications

General Overview

Ofunato is a significant port located on the northeast coast of Honshu, Japan's main island, in Iwate Prefecture. The port is strategically positioned in Ofunato Bay, which provides natural shelter from the Pacific Ocean, making it suitable for various maritime activities, including cargo handling, fishing, and marine transportation.

Key Specifications

1. Geographical Coordinates:

   • Latitude: 39.0747° N
   • Longitude: 141.7181° E

2. Port Classification:

   • Major Port

3. Natural Harbors:

   • The port of Ofunato benefits from a natural deep-water harbor, which is primarily protected by the surrounding geographical landscape.

4. Port Facilities:

   • Berthing Facilities:
     • Ofunato port has multiple berths designed to handle different types of vessels, including bulk carriers, general cargo ships, and fishing vessels.
   • Cargo Handling Equipment:
     • The port is equipped with various cranes, conveyors, and specialized equipment for handling bulk commodities, containers, and other general cargo efficiently.
   • Warehouses:
     • Ample storage space, including bonded warehouses, refrigerated storage, and open yards for different types of cargo.
   • Fueling Stations:
     • Facilities for refueling ships and other marine vessels.

5. Draft and Depth:

   • The approach channel and berth depths range up to approximately 12 meters, allowing the accommodation of medium to large-sized vessels.

6. Navigation Aids:

   • Equipped with modern navigation aids, including buoys, beacons, and lights to ensure safe and efficient vessel movement within the harbor area.

7. Operational Aspects:

   • Working Hours:
     • Typically operates 24/7 to accommodate various shipping schedules.
   • Pilotage:
     • Pilotage is available and usually recommended or required for larger vessels to ensure safe navigation into and out of the port.
   • Tug Assistance:
     • Tugboats are available to assist in maneuvering and berthing operations as necessary.

8. Cargo Types:

   • Major cargos handled at the port include timber, seafood, and various industrial materials. The port also handles a significant volume of cement, given the presence of cement manufacturing plants in the region.

9. Fishing Industry:

   • Ofunato is known for its rich fishing grounds and has considerable facilities dedicated to the fishing and seafood processing industries.

10. Customs and Immigration:

    • Comprehensive customs and immigration facilities to handle international trade and travel efficiently.

11. Connectivity:

    • Rail and Road:
      • Well-connected by rail and road to other parts of Honshu, facilitating easy transportation of goods to and from the hinterland.
    • Nearby Airports:
      • The nearest airport is Hanamaki Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away, providing additional logistics options.

12. Environmental Measures:

    • Stringent environmental protection measures are in place to minimize the impact of port activities on the surrounding marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

13. Recent Developments:

    • Post-2011 Tsunami Reconstruction:
      • The port underwent significant reconstruction and modernization following the 2011 Tsunami, which greatly affected its infrastructure. Current facilities are state-of-the-art, designed to withstand natural disasters.

Economic Importance

Ofunato port plays a vital role in the local and regional economy, supporting the fishing and manufacturing industries, providing employment, and facilitating international trade.

Conclusion

Ofunato port is a robust maritime hub with comprehensive facilities and a strategic location that supports a diverse range of maritime activities. It continues to grow in importance due to its modern infrastructure and strategic initiatives aimed at improving its resilience and efficiency.