SHIRAISHIJIMA

• Latitude: 34.4096
• Longitude: 133.518
• Japan Coast
• Port in Japan

Location: Japan

Shiraishijima is a picturesque island located in the Seto Inland Sea, part of Okayama Prefecture, Japan. While it is well-known for its natural beauty, beaches, and traditional "guest houses" (minshuku), it is not typically regarded as a major commercial marine port. Therefore, any marine port facilities on Shiraishijima are likely to be modest and primarily geared toward small-scale, local traffic, including fishing boats and passenger ferries.

Here are some key points which might characterize a port on an island like Shiraishijima:

General Description:

1. Location: Seto Inland Sea, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
2. Coordinates: Approximately 34°23'N latitude, 133°36'E longitude.
3. Purpose: Predominantly used for local tourism, fishing activities, and transport between mainland and the island.

Port Specifics:

1. Infrastructure:

   • Docks and Piers: Likely limited to a few docks or piers to accommodate small passenger ferries, fishing boats, and perhaps some recreational vessels.
   • Facilities: Basic amenities such as waiting areas, restrooms, and possibly a small terminal building.
   • Accessibility: Limited to local ferry services connecting to larger ports such as the port of Kasaoka on the mainland.

2. Capacity:

   • Vessel Size: Typically suited for small to mid-sized vessels.
   • Throughput: Modest, handling mainly daily passenger ferries and some local fishing traffic.

3. Services:

   • Passenger Services: Regular ferry services to and from Kasaoka and other nearby locations.
   • Fishing: Facilities to support local fishing operations, possibly including fish handling and storage.
   • Tourism: Information centers or kiosks, rental services for recreational activities (bikes, kayaks, etc.).

4. Regulations and Governance:

   • Administrative Authority: Managed by local municipal authorities or a regional port authority.
   • Customs and Security: Likely minimal due to the local, non-commercial nature of the port.

5. Navigational Aids:

   • Basic navigational aids such as buoys, markers, and lighting to assist vessels entering and exiting the port safely.

Important Considerations:

• Seasonal Variations: Increased activity during peak tourist seasons (e.g., summer months when beaches are most popular).
• Environmental Impact: Minimal industrial activity ensures relatively low environmental impact, emphasizing sustainable tourism and fishing practices.

Nearby Attractions and Key Points of Interest:

• Beaches: Shiraishijima is renowned for its beautiful, sandy beaches.
• Cultural Sites: Traditional minshuku accommodations and local festivals.
• Nature: Scenic landscapes and hiking trails.

Conclusion:

The port facilities on Shiraishijima are modest and primarily support local transportation and tourism activities, rather than large-scale commercial or industrial shipping. This aligns with the island’s focus on preserving its natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism practices.