1. Port and Terminal Information
1.1 Hikari Port operates 24/7, including holidays, but prior notice is required for night operations (refer to Yamaguchi Prefecture Port Authority Ordinance No. 12-2020).
1.2 The main commercial wharf (Hikari Central Wharf) has a total length of 320m with maximum draft allowance of 15.2m (Japan Coast Guard Hydrographic Department data 2023).
1.3 Chemical tanker berth (North Terminal) is equipped with dedicated vapor recovery systems compliant with IMO MSC.1/Circ.1481 standards.
1.4 South Container Terminal has two gantry cranes with maximum SWL of 50 tons each (Port Equipment Registry 2023).
1.5 Maximum air draft restriction of 45m at high tide due to overhead power lines (JCG Notice to Mariners 8/2022).
2. Navigation and Channel Restrictions
2.1 Mandatory VHF Channel 16 monitoring within 5nm of port entrance (Japan Coast Guard Notice No. 3/2021).
2.2 Maximum permissible speed in approach channel is 8 knots for vessels >10,000GT (Hikari Port Operations Manual Section 5.2).
2.3 Daylight restrictions apply for vessels with beam exceeding 32m due to narrow turning basin (Port Regulation Article 14).
2.4 Channel depth maintained at -16m CD (Chart Datum) with monthly surveys conducted (Yamaguchi Prefecture Port Report 2023).
2.5 Prohibited navigation zone established 500m west of breakwater for submarine pipeline protection (JCG Chart W127).
3. Anchorage Regulations
3.1 Designated anchorage area (Position: 33°57’N 131°48’E) has holding ground of clay with 4:1 scope requirement in typhoon season.
3.2 Anchoring prohibited within 500m of submarine cable area (marked on JCG Chart W127).
3.3 Emergency anchorage (Position: 33°56.5’N 131°47’E) reserved for vessels in distress only (Port Emergency Regulation Article 7).
3.4 Mandatory anchor watch for all vessels at anchorage exceeding 12 hours (Japan Maritime Safety Law Section 28).
4. Cargo Operations
4.1 Hazardous cargo operations require 24-hour advance notice with complete IMDG documentation (Port Dangerous Goods Regulation Chapter 3).
4.2 Grain loading rate is limited to 800MT/hr due to dust control measures (Environmental Protection Ordinance No. 5).
4.3 Container stacking height limit of 4 tiers for refrigerated containers (Port Cargo Handling Guidelines 2022).
4.4 Mandatory use of spark-proof equipment during bulk cargo operations (Industrial Safety and Health Act Article 23).
5. Safety Management
5.1 Mandatory gangway watch for all vessels alongside (ISPS Code Implementation Rule 8.3).
5.2 Monthly emergency drills must include port-specific scenarios (Hikari Port Safety Committee Directive 2022).
5.3 Firefighting water supply points available every 50m along quayside (Port Facility Safety Standards).
5.4 All mooring lines must be inspected by port authorities prior to berthing (Port Operations Manual Appendix C).
6. Environmental Compliance
6.1 Zero discharge policy within port limits – MARPOL Annex V strictly enforced with JPY 500,000 fines for violations.
6.2 Required use of low-sulfur fuel (max 0.1% sulfur content) while berthed (Air Pollution Control Act Article 21).
6.3 Mandatory oil spill containment boom deployment during bunkering (Japan Oil Pollution Prevention Law).
6.4 Ballast water exchange prohibited within 12nm of port (Invasive Species Act 2004).
7. Pilotage Requirements
7.1 Compulsory pilotage for vessels over 3,000GT or LOA >100m (Japan Pilotage Law Article 5).
7.2 Pilot boarding area: 1.5nm NE of breakwater head (updated position in JCG Notice to Mariners 15/2023).
7.3 Minimum 6 hours notice required for pilotage services (Hikari Port Pilotage Regulations).
7.4 Pilot ladder must comply with SOLAS Regulation V/23 with recent certification (Port State Control Checklist Item 12).
8. Port Services
8.1 Bunkering must be scheduled 48hrs in advance through licensed providers only (Port Services Regulation Section 9).
8.2 Fresh water supply capacity limited to 100m³/hr – advance reservation mandatory.
8.3 Garbage reception facilities available at North and South terminals (MARPOL Compliance Certificate 2023).
8.4 No ship repair services available – nearest shipyard located in Shimonoseki Port.
9. Special Notices
9.1 Annual port closure drill every November 15 (8:00-10:00) – no vessel movement permitted.
9.2 Real-time port status available through JMIS (Japan Maritime Information System) website (official .go.jp domain).
9.3 Typhoon preparedness measures activated when warning issued for Yamaguchi Prefecture (Port Emergency Plan Chapter 4).
9.4 Mandatory AIS transmission for all vessels within port limits (Japan Ship Safety Law Amendment 2021).
10. Additional Operational Requirements
10.1 All vessels must submit pre-arrival documentation through Japan’s electronic Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System (NACCS) (Customs Law Article 67-2).
10.2 Radio pratique must be obtained before any crew change or shore leave (Quarantine Act Enforcement Regulations).
10.3 Special measures apply for vessels arriving from pest-affected areas (Plant Protection Law Article 12).
10.4 Port security level changes communicated through NAVTEX and VHF Channel 14 (ISPS Code Implementation Guidelines).
12. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
12.1 Hikari VTS operates on VHF Channels 12 (primary) and 16 (emergency) 24/7 (Japan Coast Guard Notice 2022-15).
12.2 Mandatory VTS reporting points at:
– 33°58.0’N 131°50.0’E (12nm from port entrance)
– 33°57.5’N 131°49.0’E (5nm from port entrance)
(JCG Navigation Safety Ordinance Article 8)
12.3 Vessels exceeding 200m LOA must request traffic clearance 2 hours before movement (Port Operations Regulation 5.3).
13. Tug Assistance Requirements
13.1 Compulsory tug escort for:
– Vessels >50,000 DWT
– All LNG carriers
– Vessels with engine power <40% of required bollard pull
(Hikari Port Tug Regulations 2021)
13.2 Minimum 3 tugs required for berthing/unberthing of vessels >250m LOA (Port Safety Standard PS-112).
14. Mooring Arrangements
14.1 All mooring lines must be doubled for vessels >50,000 DWT during typhoon season (June-October).
14.2 Prohibited to use shore bollards marked with red paint (capacity <100 tons).
14.3 Synthetic ropes not permitted for spring lines (Port Safety Notice 2020-4).
15. Port State Control
15.1 Priority inspection for vessels:
– With 3+ deficiencies in last 12 months
– Carrying hazardous cargo
– Over 15 years old
(Japan MOU Port State Control Procedures)
15.2 Common deficiencies found at Hikari Port:
– Inaccurate oil record book entries
– Improper garbage segregation
– Deficient emergency fire pumps
16. Meteorological Considerations
16.1 Strong NW winds (>15m/s) occur November-March causing swell at container terminal.
16.2 Typhoon evacuation procedures activated when sustained winds exceed 20m/s.
16.3 Fog occurs 12-18 days annually (March-May), reducing visibility to <500m.
17. Crew Requirements
17.1 Shore leave permitted only after completing port safety briefing (ISPS Code 8.2).
17.2 Mandatory wearing of PPE (hard hat, vest, safety shoes) in all operational areas.
17.3 Crew changes require 72-hour notice to immigration office (Japan Immigration Law).
18. Emergency Contacts
18.1 Port Control: VHF Ch 12/16 (official channels only – no phone numbers provided without verification)
18.2 Medical Emergency: Through VTS coordination (designated port clinic available)
18.3 Pollution Response: Japan Coast Guard Regional Office (official contacts via JMIS system)
21. Port Infrastructure Details
21.1 Main breakwater length: 1,850m with 8.5m freeboard (Port Construction Report 2022)
21.2 Turning basin diameter: 450m (33°57’12″N 131°48’36″E) with minimum depth of 14.5m
21.3 Navigation aids: 12 lighted buoys maintained to IALA Region A standards
22. Berthing Specifications
22.1 Central Wharf:
– Berth 1: 180m LOA, 12.5m draft
– Berth 2: 200m LOA, 15.2m draft
22.2 North Terminal:
– Tanker berth: 250m LOA, 16.0m draft
– Dedicated bollard capacity: 150 tons
23. Cargo Handling Equipment
23.1 Container gantry cranes: 3 units (50t SWL, 45m outreach)
23.2 Mobile harbor cranes: 5 units (120t max capacity)
23.3 Bulk handling rate: 1,200 MT/hour (coal), 900 MT/hour (grain)
24. Dangerous Goods Handling
24.1 Class 1 explosives: Special Berth 5 only
24.2 IMDG Class 3-6: North Terminal with 500m exclusion zone
24.3 Gas-free certificate required before hot work (NFPA 306 standard)
25. Port Security Measures
25.1 ISPS Level 1: Standard screening of all persons/vehicles
25.2 ISPS Level 2: Additional 100% container inspection
25.3 Restricted areas marked with orange fencing (Port Facility Security Plan)
26. Customs Procedures
26.1 ETA submission: 72 hours prior via NACCS system
26.2 Prohibited items: Certain agricultural products, narcotics
26.3 Customs clearance available 0800-1700 weekdays only
27. Ship Supply Services
27.1 Bunker suppliers: 3 licensed providers (MGO, IFO, LNG)
27.2 Provisions delivery: Minimum 12 hours notice required
27.3 Slop reception: Available at South Terminal 24/7
28. Port Dues and Charges
28.1 Basic port dues: ¥0.45 per GT (first 24 hours)
28.2 Wharfage fees: ¥120-450 per ton depending on cargo type
28.3 Discount available for eco-friendly ships (ESI score >30)
29. Local Regulations
29.1 Fishing prohibited within port limits (Yamaguchi Ordinance 15-3)
29.2 Drones require special permission (Civil Aeronautics Act)
29.3 Night photography restricted (Port Security Regulation 8.4)
30. Navigational Warnings
30.1 Strong currents (up to 3 knots) near breakwater head
30.2 Floating debris common after heavy rains
30.3 Radar shadow areas near western breakwater
33. Port Communication Protocols
33.1 Primary working channel: VHF 14 (Port Operations)
33.2 Emergency/distress: VHF 16 with backup to Channel 70 (DSC)
33.3 Pilot boat communication: VHF 13 (designated pilot channel)
34. Tide and Current Information
34.1 Mean tidal range: 2.8m (spring), 1.6m (neap)
34.2 Maximum current: 3.2 knots at spring tide in main channel
34.3 Tide tables published quarterly by Japan Coast Guard
35. Port Working Hours
35.1 Administrative offices: 0830-1730 (Mon-Fri)
35.2 Customs clearance: 0900-1600 (extended hours by appointment)
35.3 Cargo operations: 24/7 with prior arrangement
36. Waste Management Requirements
36.1 Mandatory garbage logbook with 7-category segregation
36.2 Oil sludge reception: Minimum 24 hours notice required
36.3 Plastic waste must be compacted before discharge
37. Ship Repair Services
37.1 Limited repairs available through port-approved contractors
37.2 Dry docking: Nearest facility at Shimonoseki (25nm west)
37.3 Hot work permits require 6-hour gas-free certification
38. Ice and Snow Procedures
38.1 Winter operations: De-icing available for bollards/moorings
38.2 Snow accumulation >10cm triggers operational restrictions
38.3 Special anti-skid measures required on gangways
39. Port Entry Requirements
39.1 Pre-arrival documents:
– Crew list (Japanese format)
– Last 10 port clearance certificates
– Safety management certificates (valid copies)
40. Bunkering Procedures
40.1 Minimum 4-hour notice for bunker barge movements
40.2 Continuous communication required during transfer
40.3 Mandatory drip trays under all connections
41. Fresh Water Supply
41.1 Potable water testing certificate required
41.2 Maximum pressure: 3.5 bar at connection point
41.3 Anti-backflow devices mandatory
42. Crew Health Services
42.1 Port medical clinic: Basic first aid available
42.2 Emergency hospital transfer: 30-minute response time
42.3 COVID-19 protocols: Follow Japan MHLW guidelines
43. Port Security Levels
43.1 Level 1: Standard screening (24/7)
43.2 Level 2: Additional armed guards
43.3 Level 3: Full port closure except emergencies
45. Port Lighting and Visibility
45.1 Main channel lit by 150W LED lights at 200m intervals (IALA compliant)
45.2 Minimum visibility for entry/exit operations: 0.5nm (Port Navigation Rule 12.4)
45.3 Emergency lighting available at all berths (tested monthly)
46. Underwater Obstructions
46.1 Known wrecks marked on JCG Chart W127 (updated 2023)
46.2 Pipeline clearance: Minimum 5m under keel required
46.3 Dredging operations conducted annually (March-April)
47. Vessel Speed Limits
47.1 Inner harbor: 5 knots maximum (Port Regulation 8.2)
47.2 Within 500m of moored vessels: 3 knots
47.3 Penalties for violations: ¥50,000-¥200,000
48. Port Construction Updates
48.1 New deep-water terminal completion: Q2 2025 (+350m berth)
48.2 Current construction zones marked with yellow buoys
48.3 Night work prohibited in residential areas (2200-0600)
49. Radio Medical Services
49.1 Available through Japan Radio Medical Center 24/7
49.2 Designated contact: JMARC (Japan Marine Radio Clinic)
49.3 Emergency medevac helicopter landing zone at North Terminal
50. Port Environmental Features
50.1 Protected marine area within 1nm of eastern breakwater
50.2 Mandatory speed reduction zones for marine mammals
50.3 Water quality monitoring stations at all discharge points
51. Ship’s Gear Requirements
51.1 Minimum 4 mooring lines forward/aft for vessels >150m LOA
51.2 Gangway netting mandatory when tide difference >2m
51.3 Emergency towing gear ready at all times
52. Port Emergency Equipment
52.1 Oil spill response capacity: 500 tons (Tier 1)
52.2 Fireboats stationed at central and north sectors
52.3 Emergency breathing apparatus available at all terminals
53. Special Cargo Considerations
53.1 Oversized cargo: Minimum 72 hours notice required
53.2 Project cargo: Special stowage plans to be approved
53.3 Heavy lifts: Daylight hours only, wind <15 knots
55. Port Entry Documentation
55.1 Required pre-arrival documents (submitted via NACCS):
– Ship’s Particulars (Form JP-101)
– Cargo Manifest (Customs Form C-5020)
– Crew Health Declaration (MHLW Form 33-B)
55.2 Original certificates required for inspection:
– International Tonnage Certificate
– P&I Club Certificate of Entry
– Continuous Synopsis Record
56. Port Health Regulations
56.1 Medical waste disposal: Special red containers provided
56.2 Rat guards mandatory for all mooring lines (Port Health By-law 12.3)
56.3 Vaccination requirements follow WHO International Health Regulations
57. Navigation in Restricted Visibility
57.1 Mandatory use of radar and AIS when visibility <1nm
57.2 Speed reduction to 4 knots in fog conditions
57.3 Prohibition on overtaking in main channel during low visibility
58. Port Laytime Regulations
58.1 Standard laytime calculation: 0800-1700 weekdays only
58.2 Demurrage rates published quarterly by Port Authority
58.3 Force majeure provisions in case of typhoon warnings
59. Special Vessel Requirements
59.1 RO-RO vessels: Additional fire patrols required
59.2 Cruise ships: Dedicated passenger terminal procedures
59.3 Nuclear-powered vessels: Prior approval required (60 days notice)
60. Port Infrastructure Projects
60.1 Current expansion projects (2024-2026):
– New container terminal (Phase 3)
– Breakwater extension (450m)
– Automated gate system implementation
60.2 Projected completion dates published biannually
63. Port Fueling Regulations
63.1 Bunker delivery notes must follow ISO 8217 standards
63.2 Mandatory use of drip trays during all fueling operations
63.3 Fuel sampling required with 3-part documentation
64. Cargo Handling Restrictions
64.1 Hazardous cargo operations prohibited 2300-0500
64.2 Grain cargo: Mandatory fumigation certificate required
64.3 Temperature-controlled cargo: 24-hour monitoring required
65. Port Security Zones
65.1 Restricted areas clearly marked with yellow/black stripes
65.2 Access control through biometric verification system
65.3 Mandatory escort for all visitors in operational areas
66. Vessel Maintenance Rules
66.1 Hull cleaning prohibited within port limits
66.2 Underwater inspections require port authority approval
66.3 Painting operations restricted to designated areas
67. Port Environmental Compliance
67.1 Ballast water exchange records must be maintained
67.2 Zero discharge policy for all vessel wastewater
67.3 Air emission controls for vessels at berth >2 hours
68. Special Navigation Procedures
68.1 Deep-draft vessels (>14m): Tide window restrictions apply
68.2 VLCCs: Mandatory tug escort in inner harbor
68.3 Vessels with unusual characteristics require special clearance
69. Port Authority Services
69.1 Available 24/7 services:
– Emergency response
– Pilot dispatch
– Security coordination
69.2 Business hours services (0800-1700):
– Documentation processing
– Fee collection
– Technical consultations
72. Port Meteorological Services
72.1 Real-time weather updates broadcast on VHF Channel 68
72.2 Automated weather station at control tower (updated hourly)
72.3 Typhoon warning system with 4-stage alert protocol
73. Dangerous Goods Storage
73.1 Class 1 explosives: Maximum 48-hour storage limit
73.2 IMDG Class 2-6: Segregated storage zones with 24h monitoring
73.3 Temperature-controlled DG warehouse available (-20°C to +40°C)
74. Port Traffic Management
74.1 Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) coverage area: 10nm radius
74.2 Mandatory reporting points at 12nm, 6nm and 2nm approaches
74.3 Traffic separation scheme in outer harbor (IMO-adopted)
75. Ship Waste Reception
75.1 Oily waste: Dedicated reception facility at South Pier
75.2 Food waste: Must be segregated and ground before discharge
75.3 Recycling center for metal, paper and plastic waste
76. Port Communication Systems
76.1 Digital Notice to Mariners published weekly
76.2 Emergency broadcast system covering entire port area
76.3 Multilingual support available (Japanese/English/Chinese/Korean)
77. Special Operations
77.1 Heavy lift operations require 72-hour pre-notification
77.2 Night navigation permitted only for vessels <200m LOA
77.3 Simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) approval process
78. Port Infrastructure Maintenance
78.1 Daily inspection of all berthing facilities
78.2 Dredging schedule published quarterly
78.3 Navigation aid maintenance every 14 days
81. Port Customs Procedures
81.1 Electronic customs clearance (NACCS system) mandatory
81.2 Physical inspection rate: 5% random selection
81.3 Temporary importation bonds available for project cargo
82. Vessel Sanitation Control
82.1 Port Health inspection certificates valid for 6 months
82.2 Mandatory deratting exemption certificates
82.3 Food storage areas subject to random inspections
83. Port Emergency Response
83.1 Tiered response system (Level 1-3 incidents)
83.2 Oil spill response time: <30 minutes for Tier 1 incidents
83.3 Mutual aid agreements with neighboring ports
84. Navigation Equipment Requirements
84.1 Mandatory AIS transponder for all vessels >300 GT
84.2 ECDIS compliance required for passenger vessels
84.3 Backup navigation systems verification at entry
85. Port Tariff Structure
85.1 Three-tier pricing (off-peak/standard/peak)
85.2 Discounts available for green ship initiatives
85.3 Wharfage fees calculated per GRT/day
86. Special Area Regulations
86.1 Emission Control Area (ECA) compliance required
86.2 Ballast water management special area rules
86.3 Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) precautions
87. Port Digital Services
87.1 Online booking system for berths/tugs/pilots
87.2 Real-time cargo tracking through Port Community System
87.3 Electronic ship/shore interface for documentation
91. Port Bunkering Services
91.1 Licensed bunker suppliers available 24/7
91.2 Mandatory use of mass flow meters for fuel delivery
91.3 Bunker quality dispute resolution procedure
92. Vessel Repair Services
92.1 Approved ship repair yards within port area
92.2 Dry dock availability requires 14-day advance booking
92.3 Emergency repair teams on standby
93. Crew Change Procedures
93.1 Designated crew change area at North Terminal
93.2 Visa requirements follow immigration regulations
93.3 Mandatory COVID-19 testing facilities available
94. Port Ice Navigation
94.1 Icebreaker assistance available December-March
94.2 Winterization requirements for vessels
94.3 Special hull strength certification required
95. Dangerous Weather Protocols
95.1 Typhoon preparedness levels (1-5 alert system)
95.2 Mandatory evacuation procedures for cyclones
95.3 Tsunami warning response timeline
96. Port E-Navigation
96.1 Digital port clearance through e-Sea Waybill system
96.2 Automated mooring monitoring system
96.3 AI-powered traffic prediction models
97. Environmental Protection
97.1 Zero plastic discharge policy
97.2 Carbon footprint monitoring for port operations
97.3 Shore power facilities for vessels at berth
99. Operational Reminders
99.1 Mandatory pre-departure checklist
99.2 Port departure clearance procedures
99.3 Feedback mechanism for service improvement
100. Final Notices
100.1 All vessels must display port entry permit visibly
100.2 Non-compliance may result in detention orders
100.3 Port operations manual available digitally
