SAKITSU

• JPSAU
• Latitude: 32.3126
• Longitude: 130.027
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Sakitsu 863-1204 Japan

Sakitsu is a picturesque fishing village located in Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its historic and cultural significance, particularly its connection to the early Christian missionaries and hidden Christians (Kakure Kirishitan) during Japan's Edo period. The village is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, recognized as part of the "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region."

While Sakitsu is not a major commercial marine port, it is a notable spot for small-scale fishing activities and tourism. Here are some key features and specifications of Sakitsu:

Port Description

1. Location:

• Sakitsu is situated on the west coast of Sakitsu Bay, which opens into the East China Sea. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 32.28°N latitude and 130.16°E longitude.

2. Accessibility:

• The village is relatively remote, accessible by local roads and small boats. The nearest major city is Kumamoto, around 100 kilometers away.

3. Infrastructure:

• The port infrastructure is modest, reflecting its primary function for local fishing and small-scale tourism rather than commercial shipping.
• Facilities include a small pier for fishing boats, a docking area for tour boats, and basic amenities for fishermen and tourists.

4. Natural Setting:

• The village and port are surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, providing a serene and scenic environment.
• The waters of Sakitsu Bay are calm, sheltered by the natural topography, making it suitable for small boating activities.

Port Specifications

1. Berths and Docking:

• The port has a limited number of berths tailored for fishing vessels and small passenger boats.
• The water depth is shallow, generally suitable only for small vessels and not for large commercial ships.

2. Navigation:

• Navigation in and out of Sakitsu Bay is straightforward but requires careful handling due to the rocky seabed and shallows near the shore.
• No large lighthouse or advanced navigational aids, primarily relying on local knowledge and smaller navigational markers.

3. Services:

• Basic port services include mooring, docking, and limited maintenance facilities.
• Fueling, fresh water supply, and provisions are available but on a small scale.
• There are local markets where fresh seafood can be purchased directly from fishers.

4. Accommodation and Tourism:

• Sakitsu offers quaint accommodation options like traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and guest houses.
• Significant sites include the Sakitsu Church, a symbol of the village’s Christian heritage, and the narrow streets of the village which are reminiscent of its historic past.

5. Environmental Considerations:

• The villagers and authorities take measures to maintain the cleanliness and ecological balance of the bay area.
• Fishing practices are typically sustainable, focusing on small catch limits to preserve marine life.

Cultural Significance

1. Historical Sites:

• Sakitsu Church, built initially in the 19th century, is a key landmark representing the village's Christian heritage.
• Various hidden Christian artifacts and sites are preserved in the village, reflecting the unique religious history.

2. UNESCO World Heritage:

• Sakitsu is part of the "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region," recognized for its historical significance related to the period of Christian prohibition in Japan.

Given its unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, Sakitsu is not only a functioning fishing port but also a living museum and pilgrimage site for enthusiasts of Japanese history and culture.