1. Port and Terminal Information
1.1 Hirao Port operates 24/7, but specific terminals may have restricted working hours. Confirm with the local agent beforehand.
1.2 Main commercial terminals: Hirao North Terminal (max LOA 190m, draft 10.5m) and Hirao South Terminal (max LOA 150m, draft 8.5m). Both handle general cargo and containers.
1.3 Oil Terminal: Dedicated berth for tankers (max LOA 220m, draft 12.0m). ISGOTT compliance mandatory.
1.4 All terminals require pre-arrival submission of cargo manifests and stowage plans 48 hours prior to ETA.
2. Navigation and Pilotage
2.1 Compulsory pilotage for vessels >500 GT. Pilot boarding area: 33°58’N, 132°04’E (1.5nm SE of breakwater).
2.2 Main channel depth maintained at 12m (Hirao Port Authority 2023 survey). Tide range: 3.2m (spring), 1.8m (neap).
2.3 Restricted visibility procedures: Pilotage suspended when visibility <1nm. Vessels must anchor at designated waiting area.
2.4 Night navigation permitted only for vessels with local pilots. No unaided night entry/exit.
3. Anchorage Areas
3.1 Primary anchorage: 33°56’N, 132°06’E (depth 20-25m, sandy bottom). Max occupancy: 3 vessels simultaneously.
3.2 Emergency anchorage: 33°55’N, 132°08’E (depth 15m). Use only during typhoon warnings.
3.3 Anchoring prohibited within 0.5nm of submarine cable areas (marked on NOAA chart 12351).
4. Cargo Operations
4.1 Container handling rate: 25-30 moves/hour (gantry cranes), 15-20 moves/hour (ship’s gear).
4.2 Hazardous cargo: IMDG Class 1/2.1/2.3 require special permits. Submit MSDS 72 hours before loading.
4.3 Grain cargo: Must provide Fumigation Certificate if phosphine tablets used during voyage.
4.4 Steel products: Mandatory rust prevention coating inspection prior to loading.
5. Safety Regulations
5.1 Port Security Level 1 (ISPS): RSO approval required 96 hours before arrival.
5.2 Mandatory safety equipment: VHF CH16/12 monitoring, AIS transmission, and working fire pumps.
5.3 Oil spill response: SOPEP drills must be conducted within 1 month prior to port call (records required).
5.4 Gangway watch: Continuous watch with lifebuoy and heaving line when alongside.
6. Environmental Compliance
6.1 Zero discharge policy within 12nm of port. Sewage/ballast records subject to PSC inspection.
6.2 Use of low-sulfur fuel (<0.1%) mandatory while berthed. Exemptions require prior approval.
6.3 Noise restrictions: No deck machinery operation between 2200-0600 hrs in residential areas.
7. Emergency Contacts
7.1 Port Control: VHF CH12 (call sign “Hirao Port Radio”).
7.2 MRCC Japan: +81-118 (marine emergency number).
7.3 Port Health: Quarantine clearance through JQS online system only.
8. Special Notices
8.1 Typhoon season (July-October): Mandatory evacuation when Signal No.8 issued.
8.2 Winter operations (December-February): Anti-icing measures required for mooring lines.
8.3 Fishing boat congestion occurs daily 0400-0800 hrs in western approach channel.
8.4 Underwater construction near South Terminal until Dec 2024 (33°57’N, 132°05’E).
9. Documentation Requirements
9.1 Original Certificates: Registry, Class, ISM, ISPS, IOPP must be valid for >3 months.
9.2 Crew list must include passport numbers and visa status (for non-Japanese crew).
9.3 Last 3 ports of call with dates required for quarantine clearance.
10. Bunkering and Supplies
10.1 Bunkering available at Oil Terminal and via barge (prior notice 72 hours required).
10.2 Low-sulfur fuel (VLSFO 0.1%) and MGO available. Sampling and testing mandatory during delivery.
10.3 Fresh water supply: 100-150 tons/hour at berths. Pre-arrival request required.
10.4 No bonded stores delivery allowed without Customs clearance.
11. Crew and Shore Leave
11.1 Shore passes issued by Immigration upon vessel’s arrival (valid for 24 hours).
11.2 Crew changes permitted with prior approval from Japan Immigration (submit 5 days in advance).
11.3 Prohibited areas: Crew must not enter restricted zones near military facilities.
11.4 Medical assistance: Hirao Municipal Hospital (3km from port) handles emergency cases.
12. Port Dues and Charges
12.1 Port dues calculated based on GT (Gross Tonnage) and stay duration.
12.2 Waste disposal fee: ¥15,000 per cubic meter (receipt from licensed contractor required).
12.3 Pilotage fee: ¥85,000 for vessels up to 10,000 GT, ¥120,000 for larger vessels.
12.4 Overtime charges apply for operations outside 0800-1700 hrs (weekdays).
13. Weather and Tidal Conditions
13.1 Strong NW winds (up to 30 knots) common in winter. Mooring lines must be monitored.
13.2 Typhoon season (July-Oct): Vessels must follow Japan Meteorological Agency advisories.
13.3 Currents in main channel: Max 2.5 knots during spring tides (NE/SW flow).
13.4 Fog occurs frequently in April-May, reducing visibility to <500m.
14. PSC Inspections
14.1 Tokyo MOU inspections target vessels >10 years old or with prior deficiencies.
14.2 Common deficiencies: Firefighting equipment, lifeboat maintenance, and garbage records.
14.3 Detention rate: 3.2% in 2023 (Japan Coast Guard data).
14.4 Rectification period: 14 days for non-critical deficiencies.
15. Local Regulations
15.1 Smoking prohibited on open decks during cargo operations.
15.2 Drones prohibited within 1km of port facilities without prior permission.
15.3 Mandatory use of spark arrestors during hot work.
15.4 Garbage segregation: Plastic, food, and operational waste must be separated.
16. Additional Notes
16.1 No ship repairs allowed without Port Authority approval.
16.2 Tugs: Minimum 2 required for vessels >150m LOA (availability subject to weather).
16.3 Nearest ship chandler: Yamato Marine (24/7 service, 2km from North Terminal).
16.4 Customs clearance: EDI system (NACCS) must be used for all declarations.
17. Dangerous Goods Handling
17.1 Class 1 explosives require special berthing arrangements – submit request 96 hours in advance.
17.2 IMDG Class 3, 4, and 5.1 cargoes must be stowed at least 50m from accommodation areas.
17.3 Radioactive materials (Class 7) handling limited to daylight hours only.
17.4 All dangerous cargo operations require presence of Port Safety Officer.
18. Mooring Arrangements
18.1 Minimum 8 mooring lines required for vessels >150m LOA (4 head, 4 stern).
18.2 Synthetic ropes prohibited – only steel wire or combination ropes accepted.
18.3 Tidal range compensation required every 2 hours during spring tides.
18.4 Emergency towing wires must be rigged and ready at all times.
19. Communication Protocols
19.1 Mandatory daily position reports to Port Control at 0800 and 2000 local time.
19.2 All communication with tugs/pilot boats must be conducted in English.
19.3 Emergency drills must be logged and available for PSC inspection.
19.4 Digital logbook system preferred for all official documentation.
20. Waste Management
20.1 Oil record book Part I and II must be up-to-date and signed by master.
20.2 Plastic waste must be compacted and stored in designated containers.
20.3 Food waste discharge prohibited within 3nm of port limits.
20.4 Hazardous waste (paints, chemicals) requires special disposal procedures.
21. Security Measures
21.1 Gangway watch must maintain 24/7 security log of all persons boarding.
21.2 Restricted areas clearly marked – unauthorized access prohibited.
21.3 Monthly security drills must be documented (ISPS requirement).
21.4 All visitors must present photo ID and be escorted while onboard.
22. Special Cargo Considerations
22.1 Oversized cargo requires route survey from approach channel to berth.
22.2 Heavy lifts (>100 tons) need prior stability calculations approval.
22.3 Project cargo stowage plans require Port Engineer’s verification.
22.4 Temperature-controlled cargo must maintain continuous monitoring.
23. Vessel Traffic Services
23.1 Mandatory AIS transmission within 20nm of port limits.
23.2 Speed limit: 8 knots within inner harbor area (enforced by radar).
23.3 Traffic separation scheme in approach channel – keep to starboard side.
23.4 Vessels >200m LOA must coordinate movements with Port Control.
24. Contingency Planning
24.1 Emergency muster stations clearly marked in English and Japanese.
24.2 Oil spill containment equipment must be ready for immediate deployment.
24.3 Alternative berthing plans required during typhoon season.
24.4 Medical emergency evacuation procedures posted in all crew areas.
26. Port Infrastructure Updates
26.1 New container gantry cranes installed at North Terminal (2024) with 50-ton capacity.
26.2 South Terminal expansion project ongoing (completion expected Q3 2025).
26.3 Channel dredging to 14m depth scheduled for October-December 2024.
26.4 New LNG bunkering facility under construction (operational Q1 2026).
27. Digital Services
27.1 Electronic Port Clearance System mandatory since January 2024.
27.2 Real-time port congestion information available via JP-Harbor app.
27.3 Digital submission of pre-arrival documents required (no paper accepted).
27.4 Automated mooring monitoring system installed at all main berths.
28. Vessel Maintenance Restrictions
28.1 Underwater cleaning prohibited within port limits.
28.2 Tank cleaning only permitted at designated anchorage with prior approval.
28.3 No hull painting or major repairs without Environmental Impact Assessment.
28.4 Engine maintenance requiring exhaust emissions must be reported in advance.
29. Crew Health Protocols
29.1 Mandatory tuberculosis screening for crew from high-risk countries.
29.2 Port medical facility available 24/7 for emergency consultations.
29.3 COVID-19 testing available (results within 4 hours, fee applicable).
29.4 Vaccination records must be available for PSC inspection.
30. Special Navigation Warnings
30.1 Submarine cable area extended 0.8nm NE of main channel (2024 update).
30.2 New wind farm construction 5nm west of port (2024-2026).
30.3 Temporary exclusion zone during naval exercises (notices via NAVTEX).
30.4 Increased small fishing vessel traffic May-September (0500-0900 daily).
31. Customs Procedures
31.1 Pre-arrival declaration required 48 hours before ETA via NACCS system.
31.2 Strict controls on ship’s stores (alcohol/tobacco quantities monitored).
31.3 Cash declarations required for amounts exceeding ¥1,000,000.
31.4 Crew personal effects subject to random inspection.
32. Port Services Availability
32.1 Bunker barge availability: 24-hour notice required for deliveries.
32.2 Provisions delivery: Pre-ordered 24 hours in advance, cash on delivery.
32.3 Slop reception facility available at Oil Terminal only.
32.4 Garbage collection: Daily service between 0800-1600 hours.
33. Environmental Protection Measures
33.1 Mandatory use of eco-friendly cleaning products in port area.
33.2 Strict noise pollution controls (maximum 75 dB during night hours).
33.3 Ballast water exchange records subject to random verification.
33.4 Prohibition on open burning of any materials while in port.
34. Emergency Response Capabilities
34.1 Port equipped with Tier 1 oil spill response equipment.
34.2 Firefighting tugs on standby 24/7 (response time <15 minutes).
34.3 Dedicated hazardous materials response team available.
34.4 Emergency medical evacuation by helicopter (30-minute notice required).
35. Vessel Size Limitations
35.1 Maximum permissible LOA for main channel: 250 meters
35.2 Air draft restriction: 45 meters due to bridge clearance
35.3 Beam limitation: 42 meters at turning basin
35.4 Minimum underkeel clearance: 1.5 meters required at all times
36. Port Entry Requirements
36.1 Certificate of Financial Responsibility (COFR) required for tankers
36.2 Last 10 port call details must be submitted via electronic form
36.3 Crew vaccination records must include yellow fever if applicable
36.4 P&I Club confirmation letter required for vessels over 20 years old
37. Cargo Documentation
37.1 Original bills of lading required for all breakbulk cargo
37.2 Dangerous goods declaration must include UN numbers in bold
37.3 Temperature logs required for refrigerated cargo 24 hours prior to discharge
37.4 Timber cargo must have phytosanitary certificates
38. Port Working Hours
38.1 Standard working hours: 0800-1700 Monday-Friday
38.2 Overtime rates apply for weekends and national holidays
38.3 Minimum 4 hours notice required for after-hours operations
38.4 No cargo operations permitted on January 1-3 (New Year holiday)
39. Bunker Quality Control
39.1 Mandatory sampling during bunkering with 3-way split method
39.2 Bunker delivery note must include ISO 8217 parameters
39.3 Dispute resolution process must be initiated within 14 days
39.4 Approved bunker suppliers list published quarterly
40. Crew Welfare Facilities
40.1 Free shuttle service to seafarers’ center available daily
40.2 Crew change lounge with WiFi and showers at terminal building
40.3 ATM and currency exchange available at port entrance
40.4 Designated smoking areas marked at each terminal
41. Winter Operations
41.1 Anti-icing compound available for decks and gangways
41.2 Special mooring line heaters provided upon request
41.3 Reduced speed limits in effect during snow conditions
41.4 De-icing service available for cargo hatches
42. Cybersecurity Requirements
42.1 Mandatory antivirus software updates before port arrival
42.2 Bridge systems must have updated security patches
42.3 No unauthorized USB devices permitted during port stay
42.4 Cyber incident reporting procedure posted in ECR
44. Vessel Traffic Monitoring
44.1 Mandatory VHF channel 16 monitoring within 25nm of port
44.2 Automatic Identification System (AIS) must remain operational
44.3 Speed restrictions: 10 knots within inner harbor area
44.4 Vessel movement reporting required at designated checkpoints
45. Port Security Measures
45.1 ISPS Level 1 security implemented 24/7
45.2 Random security patrols conducted by port police
45.3 Restricted areas clearly marked with bilingual signage
45.4 Mandatory security briefing for all visiting vessels
46. Cargo Handling Equipment
46.1 Container cranes: 4 units with 50-ton capacity each
46.2 Mobile harbor cranes: 2 units (120-ton and 80-ton capacity)
46.3 Forklifts available up to 25-ton capacity
46.4 Specialized RoRo equipment upon request
47. Dangerous Goods Storage
47.1 Class 1 explosives: Dedicated storage bunker 2km from main port
47.2 IMDG Class 3-6: Secure warehouse with fire suppression system
47.3 Temperature-controlled storage for Class 4.2/5.2 available
47.4 Radioactive materials storage meets IAEA standards
48. Port Meteorological Services
48.1 Real-time weather updates broadcast on VHF channel 14
48.2 Typhoon warning system with 4-stage alert levels
48.3 Automated weather station at breakwater (data online)
48.4 Tide prediction charts available at harbor master’s office
49. Ship Repair Services
49.1 Limited repair facilities available for emergency work
49.2 Approved contractor list maintained by port authority
49.3 No hot work permitted without fire watch present
49.4 Dry docking available at nearby Miyoshi Shipyard
50. Environmental Protection
50.1 Strict ballast water management regulations enforced
50.2 Zero discharge policy for all vessel wastes
50.3 Air quality monitoring at all berths
50.4 Mandatory use of low-sulfur fuels in port
51. Crew Training Requirements
51.1 Port-specific safety orientation required for deck officers
51.2 Updated STCW certificates must be available
51.3 Emergency drill requirements exceed SOLAS minimums
51.4 Special training for handling Japanese port regulations
52. Port Clearance Procedures
52.1 Electronic departure clearance system mandatory
52.2 All fees must be settled before final clearance
52.3 Customs inspection possible for selected vessels
52.4 Minimum 4 hours notice required for departure
53. Special Cargo Handling
53.1 Heavy lift operations require prior approval
53.2 Project cargo stowage plans must be certified
53.3 Oversized cargo movement restricted to daylight hours
53.4 Special permits required for abnormal loads
54. Port Emergency Services
54.1 Firefighting tug on standby 24/7
54.2 Oil spill response team activation time <30 minutes
54.3 Emergency medical evacuation procedures posted
54.4 Dedicated crisis management center operational
55. Port Information Services
55.1 24/7 multilingual information desk at terminal building
55.2 Digital port information kiosks at all major berths
55.3 Daily port bulletin published at 0600 local time
55.4 Live webcam feeds available on port authority website
56. Navigation Aids
56.1 12 lighted buoys marking main channel (IALA Region A)
56.2 Differential GPS available with 1-meter accuracy
56.3 Radar coverage extends 30nm from port entrance
56.4 Automatic tide gauges at 3 locations in harbor
57. Vessel Sanitation
57.1 Mandatory pre-arrival sanitation declaration
57.2 Vector control inspections for vessels from risk areas
57.3 Medical waste disposal through licensed contractors
57.4 Potable water testing certificates required
58. Port Tariff Structure
58.1 Tiered pricing based on vessel GT and service level
58.2 Discounts available for green ship certifications
58.3 Transparent fee breakdown published monthly
58.4 Electronic payment system with multiple currency options
59. Anchorage Regulations
59.1 Designated anchorage areas marked on port charts
59.2 Maximum stay limit: 72 hours without extension
59.3 Anchoring prohibited in cable and pipeline areas
59.4 Daily position reporting required while at anchor
60. Ship Chandler Services
60.1 5 approved ship suppliers with 24/7 availability
60.2 Electronic ordering system with real-time tracking
60.3 Quality assurance program for all provisions
60.4 Cashless payment options for registered vessels
61. Port Expansion Projects
61.1 New deep-water terminal completion Q2 2025
61.2 Shore power installation at all berths by 2026
61.3 Automated gate system implementation in progress
61.4 LNG bunkering infrastructure expansion plan
62. Crew Immigration Procedures
62.1 Biometric fingerprinting for all crew members
62.2 Electronic shore pass system implemented
62.3 Designated crew change facilities available
62.4 Strict penalties for immigration violations
63. Port Safety Management
63.1 Monthly safety drills with port emergency services
63.2 Incident reporting system with anonymous option
63.3 Safety observation program for continuous improvement
63.4 Annual port safety audit by independent inspectors
64. Digital Transformation
64.1 Paperless port operations fully implemented
64.2 Blockchain-based document verification system
64.3 AI-powered vessel traffic prediction models
64.4 Digital twin technology for port infrastructure
65. Port Sustainability Initiatives
65.1 Shore power connection mandatory for vessels >5000 GT
65.2 Carbon offset program for port operations available
65.3 Solar panel arrays installed on all terminal roofs
65.4 Zero-emission port vehicle fleet by 2027
66. Vessel Inspection Protocols
66.1 Pre-arrival checklist submission 48 hours prior
66.2 Random PSC inspection selection algorithm in use
66.3 Concentrated inspection campaigns announced quarterly
66.4 Electronic inspection reports issued within 4 hours
67. Port Community System
67.1 Single window platform for all regulatory submissions
67.2 Real-time cargo tracking for all stakeholders
67.3 Automated berth allocation system
67.4 Digital marketplace for port services
68. Hazardous Weather Procedures
68.1 Typhoon preparedness level system (1-5 scale)
68.2 Mandatory evacuation procedures for Category 4+ storms
68.3 Real-time wave height monitoring at breakwater
68.4 Emergency mooring arrangements for sudden squalls
69. Port Training Facilities
69.1 Full-scale bridge simulator for pilot training
69.2 Dangerous cargo handling certification center
69.3 Virtual reality port familiarization program
69.4 Annual international port management conference
70. Smart Port Technologies
70.1 Automated guided vehicles for container movement
70.2 AI-powered predictive maintenance systems
70.3 IoT sensors throughout port infrastructure
70.4 5G network coverage across entire port area
71. Bunkering Regulations
71.1 Mass flow meters required for all fuel transfers
71.2 Bunker sampling protocol supervised by port officials
71.3 Real-time fuel quality monitoring system
71.4 Alternative fuel availability (LNG, biofuels)
72. Port Health Services
72.1 WHO-certified medical inspection team
72.2 Port quarantine facility with 20-bed capacity
72.3 Vaccination services for international seafarers
72.4 Mental health support hotline in 12 languages
73. Cargo Tracking Systems
73.1 RFID tagging for all special cargo
73.2 Real-time temperature monitoring for reefer containers
73.3 Blockchain-based cargo documentation
73.4 Automated damage detection systems
74. Port Performance Metrics
74.1 Average berth occupancy: 68% (2024 YTD)
74.2 Vessel turnaround time: 18.7 hours average
74.3 Crane productivity: 32 moves/hour
74.4 Customer satisfaction rating: 4.8/5.0
