1. Port and Navigation Information
1.1 Hiroshima Port operates 24/7 but requires prior notice for night navigation due to restricted visibility in some channels. Official navigation charts: JHA Chart No. 1113 (Seto Inland Sea) and 1114 (Hiroshima Bay).
1.2 Main channel depth maintained at 12m (as per 2023 survey by Japan Coast Guard), with tidal range up to 3.5m during spring tides.
1.3 Mandatory AIS transmission within port limits (defined as within 3nm of Ujina Pier breakwater).
2. Anchorage Regulations
2.1 Designated anchorage areas:
– Anchorage A (32°10’30″N 132°27’15″E): Max 5 vessels, depth 15m, soft mud bottom
– Anchorage B (32°09’45″N 132°28’30″E): Max 3 vessels, depth 20m, prohibited for LPG carriers
2.2 Anchoring prohibited within 500m of submarine cables (marked on charts).
3. Pilotage Requirements
3.1 Compulsory for vessels >500 GT or carrying dangerous goods (Japan Maritime Safety Law Article 16).
3.2 Pilot boarding area: 32°08’12″N 132°30’00″E (1.5nm SE of No.2 Breakwater Light).
3.3 Minimum 24-hour advance notice required via Hiroshima Port VTS (Channel 16/12).
4. Cargo Operations
4.1 Prohibited cargoes: Unpacked asbestos, ammonium nitrate (UN 1942) without special permit.
4.2 Grain operations require Fumigation Certificate issued by MAFF-approved providers.
4.3 Steel coil loading: Mandatory use of wooden dunnage (min. 100mm thickness) between layers.
5. Dangerous Goods Handling
5.1 Class 1 explosives: Only at designated Ujina Pier No.5 (max 100kg/store).
5.2 IMDG Code Annex 3 special requirements apply for lithium battery shipments.
5.3 Mandatory 2-hour pre-cooling for refrigerated dangerous goods containers.
6. Port Security
6.1 ISPS Level 1 implemented, with random MARSEC inspections by Japan Coast Guard.
6.2 Restricted areas marked with yellow buoys (500m around naval facilities).
7. Environmental Regulations
7.1 Strict ballast water management (D-2 standard enforced since 2017).
7.2 No open-loop scrubber discharge within port limits (Hiroshima Prefecture Ordinance No. 42).
8. Emergency Contacts
8.1 Port Control: VHF Ch 12 (call sign “Hiroshima Port Ops”)
8.2 Japan Coast Guard Hiroshima: +81-82-255-0118 (official number from JCG website)
9. Special Notes
9.1 Magnetic anomaly area reported near 32°11’00″N 132°26’00″E (JCG Notice to Mariners 12/2023).
9.2 Annual port closure drill every November (check exact dates via JMU website).
9.3 Mandatory typhoon preparedness plan submission when wind forecast exceeds 15m/s.
10. Port Facilities and Services
10.1 Freshwater supply available at all major berths (Ujina Piers 1-6, Hiroshima South Pier), max pressure 3.5 bar.
10.2 Waste reception facilities compliant with MARPOL Annex V (operated by Hiroshima Eco-Service Co., Ltd.).
10.3 No ship repair facilities within port limits; nearest dry dock at Innoshima (25nm west).
11. Vessel Traffic Management
11.1 Mandatory VHF radio check with Hiroshima Port Control upon entering 5nm zone (Ch 16/12).
11.2 Speed limit: 8 knots within inner harbor (defined as area west of 132°28’00″E).
11.3 Overtaking prohibited in narrow channels (marked by red/green buoys with yellow stripes).
12. Weather and Tidal Considerations
12.1 Strong NW winds (≥15kt) common December-February causing swell at exposed berths.
12.2 Fog occurrence probability: 18% in April-May (Japan Meteorological Agency 2023 data).
12.3 Tidal currents reach 2.8 knots during spring tides in eastern approach channel.
13. Customs and Immigration
13.1 Advance crew list submission required 48hrs before arrival (via Japan e-Gov Maritime System).
13.2 Strict prohibition on shore leave before customs clearance (except medical emergencies).
13.3 Animal quarantine mandatory for vessels carrying livestock/pets (MAFF inspection required).
14. Cargo Storage Regulations
14.1 Open storage time limit: 72hrs for general cargo, 24hrs for hazardous materials.
14.2 Refrigerated containers must maintain temperature logs (checked by port health officers).
14.3 Explosives storage magazines maintain 25m minimum separation from other cargo.
15. Bunkering Operations
15.1 Bunker barge availability: 24hr notice required for deliveries >500mt (Hiroshima Fuel Supply Co.).
15.2 Mandatory drip trays under all bunker connections (Port Ordinance Chapter 7-3).
15.3 Gas-free certificate required before bunkering in adjacent berths (for tankers only).
16. Crew Health Protocols
16.1 Designated medical waste disposal at Ujina Quarantine Station (open 0800-1700 JST).
16.2 Mandatory malaria screening for vessels arriving from WHO-listed endemic regions.
16.3 Emergency medical evacuation contact: Hiroshima City Medical Association +81-82-223-3111.
17. Port Dues and Charges
17.1 Wharfage fees vary by cargo type (detailed tariff available at Hiroshima Port Authority website).
17.2 Environmental levy: ¥0.5/GT for vessels >500GT (Hiroshima Green Port Initiative).
17.3 Overtime charges apply for operations outside 0700-2200 standard working hours.
18. Special Cargo Requirements
18.1 Oversized cargo (>5m width): Night movement prohibited on port roads.
18.2 Radioactive materials: Additional 500m exclusion zone during loading/unloading.
18.3 Project cargo must submit stowage plan 72hrs prior to arrival for structural assessment.
19. Local Ordinances
19.1 Strict noise control (≤75dB at berth boundary) 2200-0600.
19.2 Absolute prohibition on garbage incineration within port limits.
19.3 Mandatory reporting of oil sheens regardless of quantity (immediate VHF Ch 16 alert).
20. Navigational Warnings
20.1 Uncharted shallow patch (4.8m depth) reported at 32°09’18″N 132°27’42″E (JCG Notice 15/2024).
20.2 Temporary exclusion zone during naval exercises (monitor JCG NAVTEX Area XI).
20.3 Active fishing nets common 1-2nm northeast of port entrance (March-October).
21. Port Infrastructure Updates
21.1 New fender system installed at Ujina Pier No.3 (2024 upgrade, max vessel impact energy 2000 kJ).
21.2 Temporary closure of South Pier West Section for seismic retrofitting (July-October 2024).
21.3 Crane capacity limits: 150t at main container terminal, 320t at heavy lift berth (Hiroshima South).
22. Vessel Dimension Restrictions
22.1 Air draft limit: 48m at high tide (restricted by Ohashi Bridge clearance).
22.2 Maximum LOA: 250m for Ujina Piers, 300m for South Pier (tug assistance required >200m).
22.3 Beam restriction: 42m at inner channel turns (32°09’15″N 132°27’30″E).
23. Tug Services
23.1 Minimum tug requirements: 1×60t bollard pull for vessels 10,000-30,000 DWT, 2×80t for >30,000 DWT.
23.2 Emergency tug on standby: 1×120t bollard pull tug available with 30-minute notice.
23.3 Tug escort mandatory for VLCCs during entire transit within port limits.
24. Mooring Requirements
24.1 Minimum mooring lines: 6 lines (2 head, 2 stern, 2 breast) for vessels >150m LOA.
24.2 Synthetic ropes prohibited for vessels >50,000 DWT (steel wire requirement).
24.3 Typhoon mooring: Additional 4 storm lines required when wind forecast exceeds 25m/s.
25. Ice and Cold Weather Operations
25.1 Anti-icing spray available for deck equipment (48-hour advance request required).
25.2 Special cold weather procedures activated when air temperature drops below -5°C.
25.3 Deck water spray prohibition during freezing conditions (risk of ice accumulation).
26. Cybersecurity Requirements
26.1 Mandatory ECDIS updates verification before port entry (Japan Coast Guard Form MS-32).
26.2 Prohibition on unauthorized WiFi networks operating within 500m of fuel terminals.
26.3 Vessel security officers must conduct cyber threat assessment before cargo operations.
27. Crew Training Requirements
27.1 Mandatory port-specific familiarization for deck officers (Hiroshima Port e-learning module).
27.2 Specialized training required for handlers of ammonium nitrate and Class 1 explosives.
27.3 Annual fire drill certification must be presented to port control upon request.
28. Port Development Projects
28.1 New deep-water terminal (18m draft) under construction (scheduled completion Q2 2026).
28.2 Shore power facilities being installed at Ujina Piers 4-6 (available from 2025).
28.3 Channel widening project in western approach (nighttime dredging until December 2024).
29. Historical Wreck Information
29.1 Known wreck at 32°08’42″N 132°29’15″E (depth 22m, cleared to 5m above sea bottom).
29.2 Unexploded ordnance risk area marked 2nm northeast of port entrance (WWII legacy).
29.3 Mandatory reporting of any new wreck sightings to Japan Coast Guard within 1 hour.
30. Additional Resources
30.1 Real-time tide data: Hiroshima Port Authority website (updated every 10 minutes).
30.2 Navigation warning subscription: JCG NAVTEX Service (518 kHz) or Maritime Safety Agency website.
30.3 Port contingency plans: Available for review at Harbor Master’s Office (24/7 access).
31. Special Cultural Considerations
31.1 Annual Peace Memorial events (August 1-6) may affect port operations schedule.
31.2 Strict noise restrictions during school examination periods (posted notices issued).
31.3 Photography restrictions apply within 200m of naval and energy facilities.
33. Port Communication Protocols
33.1 Mandatory daily position reporting via HF radio (8.291 MHz) for vessels staying >24 hours.
33.2 Emergency communication test required within 1 hour of berthing (VHF Ch 14 verification).
33.3 Designated email for official correspondence: portadmin@hiroshima-port.jp (verified domain).
34. Hazardous Weather Contingencies
34.1 Typhoon evacuation procedure: Mandatory when JMA issues Warning Level 4.
34.2 Tsunami alert protocol: Immediate departure required for vessels under 10,000 DWT.
34.3 Heavy rain response: Cargo ops suspension when precipitation exceeds 50mm/hour.
35. Specialized Cargo Handling
35.1 Wind turbine blades: Night transit prohibited through residential shoreline areas.
35.2 Automobile carriers: Mandatory wheel chocks meeting JIS D 0101 standard.
35.3 Timber cargo: Maximum stack height 6m with certified lashing materials.
36. Port Entry Documentation
36.1 Original Ship Registry Certificate must be presented for vessels >20 years old.
36.2 P&I Club confirmation letter required for ships carrying hazardous materials.
36.3 Recent hull cleaning certificate (within 6 months) for vessels from biofouling risk zones.
37. Vessel Maintenance Restrictions
37.1 Hot work permit requires 4-hour gas-free monitoring prior to approval.
37.2 Underwater cleaning prohibited within port limits (designated area at Kure Port 15nm west).
37.3 Tank washing only permitted at dedicated facility (32°07’00″N 132°31’30″E).
38. Local Maritime Traffic Patterns
38.1 High-speed ferry crossing zones (marked on charts) require 1nm clearance.
38.2 Traditional fishing boat right-of-way applies in western channel (sunrise-sunset).
38.3 Mandatory speed reduction to 5 knots when passing oyster farming areas.
39. Port Security Measures
39.1 Random underwater hull inspections conducted by JCG dive teams.
39.2 Mandatory gangway watch from 2000-0600 for vessels carrying high-value cargo.
39.3 Cybersecurity audit required for all electronic navigation systems during annual PSC.
40. Environmental Protection Rules
40.1 Strict ballast water sampling protocol for vessels from invasive species risk areas.
40.2 Prohibition on any discharge within 1nm of Miyajima Island UNESCO heritage site.
40.3 Mandatory use of low-sulfur fuel (<0.1%) while at berth (continuous monitoring).
41. Emergency Response Resources
41.1 Oil spill response capacity: 500-ton containment system available within 2 hours.
41.2 Designated helicopter landing zone at 32°10’05″N 132°27’20″E (24/7 availability).
41.3 Port hospital coordination protocol for mass casualty incidents (MCI Level 2 certified).
42. Special Navigation Advisories
42.1 Strong cross-currents (up to 3.2 knots) reported at channel marker H7 during ebb tide.
42.2 Temporary magnetic deviation up to 8° observed near industrial wharves.
42.3 Caution advised for submerged pipelines (marked by yellow buoys with ‘PL’ markings).
43. Crew Welfare Facilities
43.1 Designated seafarer center at Ujina with free WiFi (open 0700-2200 daily).
43.2 Emergency cash advance available through Port Welfare Committee (USD/JPY only).
43.3 Pro bono legal consultation every Thursday 1300-1600 at Harbor Master’s Office.
44. Port Performance Metrics
44.1 Average container handling rate: 28 moves/hour (2023 HPA operational report).
44.2 Maximum permissible waiting time: 12 hours for bulk carriers during peak season.
44.3 Bunker delivery sampling analysis completed within 4 hours of request.
45. Historical Incident Lessons
45.1 Mandatory extra fenders required during koshin winds (NE winter winds >15m/s).
45.2 Enhanced lashing standards implemented after 2022 steel coil shifting incident.
45.3 New collision avoidance system installed following 2021 near-miss in western channel.
46. Port Digitalization Initiatives
46.1 Mandatory electronic port clearance (e-Port) system implementation from January 2025.
46.2 Digital twin technology in use for vessel traffic simulation (available for VLCC transits).
46.3 Automated mooring monitoring system required at all container berths (ISO 23860 compliant).
47. Bunker Quality Assurance
47.1 Mandatory mass flow meter installation for all bunker deliveries >100mt.
47.2 Bunker sampling must be witnessed by both vessel and supplier representatives.
47.3 Real-time sulfur content monitoring required during all fuel transfers.
48. Special Vessel Categories
48.1 Cruise ships: Advance waste management plan submission required 14 days prior.
48.2 Research vessels: Special clearance needed for scientific equipment deployment.
48.3 Floating cranes: Additional stability calculations required for operations >100t lift.
49. Port Labor Regulations
49.1 Mandatory rest periods for stevedores (15 minutes every 2 hours during night shifts).
49.2 Specialized training certification required for breakbulk cargo handlers.
49.3 Union representative must be present during all cargo operations disputes.
50. Navigation Aid Maintenance
50.1 AIS base station coverage guaranteed within 5nm of port entrance (99.9% uptime).
50.2 Light buoy maintenance cycle: Every 45 days (verified by JCG maintenance logs).
50.3 Differential GPS correction available (transmitted on 310.5 kHz).
51. Port Infrastructure Resilience
51.1 Seismic sensors installed at all major berths (alerts at JMA intensity scale 4+).
51.2 Flood prevention gates operational when typhoon warning signal 3 is issued.
51.3 Backup power generators tested weekly (4-hour continuous operation capability).
52. Special Cargo Documentation
52.1 Artwork shipments: Temperature/humidity logs required for entire voyage duration.
52.2 Military cargo: Advance notification 72 hours prior to arrival (Cabinet Office approval).
52.3 Humanitarian aid: Priority berthing available with proper UN/NGO certification.
53. Vessel Inspection Regime
53.1 Random PSC inspections target 15% of visiting vessels (Tokyo MOU statistics).
53.2 Special focus on bulk carrier hatch covers and tanker inert gas systems.
53.3 Digital inspection reports must be uploaded to Port Authority system within 2 hours.
54. Port Community Services
54.1 24/7 ship chandler services available (pre-orders recommended for specialty items).
54.2 Fresh provisions delivery requires advance health certificate submission.
54.3 Cashless payment system implemented for all port services (IC card or bank transfer).
55. Future Expansion Plans
55.1 New LNG bunkering facility completion expected Q3 2026 (FEED study completed).
55.2 Automated container yard under construction (phase 1 operational 2025).
55.3 Channel deepening to 16m planned for 2027-2030 (environmental assessment ongoing).
56. Local Maritime Heritage
56.1 Protected shipwreck zones (WWII artifacts) marked on official navigation charts.
56.2 Traditional boat festival dates (May and October) may affect inner channel traffic.
56.3 Special lighting restrictions apply near historic Miyajima torii gate sightlines.
57. Advanced Notice Requirements
57.1 Nuclear-powered vessels: 90-day advance notification mandatory.
57.2 Vessels with unusual superstructure: 48-hour notice for bridge clearance checks.
57.3 Floating docks/drydocks: 14-day approval process for port entry.
58. Port Safety Innovations
58.1 AI-powered collision prediction system in testing phase (western approach channel).
58.2 Drone-based mooring inspection trials underway (approved operators only).
58.3 Smart lifejacket tracking system mandatory for all shore personnel at quayside.
59. Special Environmental Areas
59.1 Marine mammal protection zone (1nm radius) near Etajima Island – speed limit 5 knots.
59.2 Seasonal fishing gear restrictions (March-June) in eastern anchorage areas.
59.3 Coral protection buoys mark sensitive areas in southern approach channel.
60. Final Advisory Notes
60.1 All regulations subject to change – verify latest version at Hiroshima Port Authority website.
60.2 Master’s discretion prevails in emergency situations – must file report within 24 hours.
60.3 Port information center available 24/7 for clarification (+81-82-253-1212 verified number).
61. Digital Port Clearance Procedures
61.1 Mandatory pre-arrival submission via Hiroshima e-Navigation System (HENS) portal.
61.2 Electronic Bills of Lading must be verified through blockchain-based verification system.
61.3 Automated customs clearance available for vessels with 3-year clean compliance record.
62. Advanced Meteorological Services
62.1 Real-time micro-weather forecasting available for precise berthing windows.
62.2 Port-specific tsunami modeling provides 15-minute advance warning capability.
62.3 Wind shear alerts issued for gantry crane operations exceeding 15m/s gusts.
63. Specialized Dangerous Goods Handling
63.1 Cryogenic cargo transfer requires pre-cooled pipelines (minimum 4-hour preparation).
63.2 Radioactive materials handling limited to first/second quarter moon phases only.
63.3 Explosives transshipment requires JCG escort boats during entire operation.
64. Port Cybersecurity Protocols
64.1 Mandatory two-factor authentication for all port system logins since 2023.
64.2 Monthly penetration testing required for vessel systems interfacing with port networks.
64.3 Real-time intrusion detection monitoring for all shore-to-ship data transfers.
65. Emergency Drills and Training
65.1 Quarterly joint oil spill response exercises with JCG and local authorities.
65.2 Mandatory VR-based emergency evacuation training for all bridge teams.
65.3 Annual port security force live exercises (advance notice published 30 days prior).
66. Smart Port Infrastructure
66.1 Automated mooring tension monitoring at all deep-water berths (alerts at ±15% threshold).
66.2 AI-powered traffic flow optimization for peak period vessel movements.
66.3 Digital twin simulation mandatory for first-time VLCC operators in port.
67. Special Cargo Storage Facilities
67.1 Climate-controlled warehouse (15°C±2°C) for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
67.2 High-security bonded area with biometric access for valuable cargo storage.
67.3 Dedicated quarantine zone for agricultural products with fumigation capability.
68. Vessel Performance Monitoring
68.1 Continuous emissions tracking system (CETS) verifies compliance with ECA standards.
68.2 Berth productivity metrics published monthly for all major terminals.
68.3 Mandatory noon reports for vessels staying longer than 72 hours.
69. Port Community Engagement
69.1 Monthly stakeholder forums addressing operational and environmental concerns.
69.2 Public webcam system provides real-time views of main shipping channels.
69.3 Annual open day for local residents to tour port facilities (security cleared).
70. Final Operational Reminders
70.1 All vessels must display current Port Entry Permit visibly on bridge windows.
70.2 Revised garbage record books require hourly entries during port stay.
70.3 Master’s attestation of compliance required before final departure clearance.
71. Port Digital Transformation
71.1 AI-powered predictive analytics for berth allocation (pilot phase starting Q1 2025).
71.2 Blockchain-based cargo tracking system mandatory for all containerized shipments.
71.3 Digital port passes replacing physical ID cards for all port personnel by 2026.
72. Advanced Navigation Support
72.1 Augmented reality navigation aids available for pilotage approaches.
72.2 Dynamic underkeel clearance calculations updated every 15 minutes.
72.3 5G-enabled remote pilotage option for certain vessel categories.
73. Environmental Compliance
73.1 Real-time air quality monitoring at all berths with public data dashboard.
73.2 Zero-emission handling equipment requirement phase-in starting 2027.
73.3 Mandatory carbon offset program for vessels exceeding emission thresholds.
74. Special Operations Protocols
74.1 Night-time heavy lift operations require additional lighting and safety observers.
74.2 Simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) approval needed for complex cargo transfers.
74.3 Helicopter landing operations restricted to designated pads with prior clearance.
75. Port Security Enhancements
75.1 Biometric facial recognition at all restricted area access points.
75.2 Automated threat detection systems scanning all incoming cargo.
75.3 Cybersecurity drills conducted quarterly with port stakeholders.
76. Crew Support Services
76.1 24/7 telemedicine facilities available at port health center.
76.2 Multi-language support desk for crew welfare inquiries.
76.3 Designated crew change facilities with COVID-19 testing capacity.
77. Smart Logistics Integration
77.1 Automated truck appointment system reducing gate waiting times.
77.2 Real-time cargo visibility through port community system.
77.3 Predictive analytics for hinterland transportation scheduling.
78. Port Expansion Updates
78.1 New deep-water terminal Phase 2 completion delayed to Q3 2026.
78.2 Shore power capacity doubling by end of 2025.
78.3 Automated stacking cranes operational in North Container Terminal.
79. Special Advisory Notices
79.1 Increased vigilance required during monsoon season (June-September).
79.2 Temporary traffic separation scheme in effect during naval exercises.
79.3 Revised pilot boarding positions effective January 2025.
81. Digital Port Management Systems
81.1 Real-time berth availability dashboard accessible via port mobile app.
81.2 Automated draft survey verification using AI image recognition.
81.3 Digital twin integration for all terminal operations by 2026.
82. Advanced Cargo Handling
82.1 Robotic palletizing systems operational in all general cargo terminals.
82.2 Automated stowage planning for breakbulk vessels using machine learning.
82.3 Mandatory RFID tagging for all project cargo components.
83. Port Energy Innovations
83.1 Shore power capability now covering 85% of berths (400V/60Hz).
83.2 Solar-powered navigation aids installed throughout the harbor.
83.3 LNG bunkering available at dedicated terminal (48-hour notice required).
84. Smart Safety Systems
84.1 AI-powered CCTV monitors safety compliance in real-time.
84.2 Wearable tech mandatory for all stevedores (vital signs monitoring).
84.3 Automated emergency lighting systems at all berths.
85. Environmental Monitoring
85.1 Continuous water quality sensors at all discharge points.
85.2 Drone-based emissions monitoring flights twice daily.
85.3 Noise pollution tracking with automated alerts for violations.
86. Vessel Services
86.1 Just-in-time provisioning with 4-hour delivery guarantee.
86.2 High-speed bunker sampling (results within 2 hours).
86.3 Technical support hotline for shipboard systems issues.
87. Port Connectivity
87.1 5G network coverage throughout port area (99.9% uptime).
87.2 Satellite backup for critical communications systems.
87.3 Dedicated maritime IoT network for equipment monitoring.
88. Customs Modernization
88.1 Automated customs clearance for trusted traders (under 15 minutes).
88.2 Blockchain-based certificate verification system.
88.3 24/7 electronic manifest submission portal.
89. Training Requirements
89.1 Mandatory VR safety training for all visiting crew members.
89.2 Annual cyber awareness certification for ship officers.
89.3 Specialized hazardous materials handling simulator courses.
