1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Legal Framework: Shimonoseki Port operates under Japan’s Port Regulations Law (港湾法) and local ordinances of Yamaguchi Prefecture. Compliance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, COLREG) is mandatory.
1.2. Navigation Rules: Vessels must adhere to the Maritime Traffic Safety Act (海上交通安全法), including speed limits (max 10 knots in inner harbor) and designated traffic lanes marked by the Japan Coast Guard (JCG).
1.3. Anchorage Areas: Designated anchorage zones (No.1-No.3) are enforced by JCG. Unauthorized anchoring is prohibited.
1.4. Hazardous Cargo: Handling follows the Fire Service Act (消防法) and IMDG Code. Prior notification to the Shimonoseki Port Authority (SPA) is required 72 hours before arrival.
2. Compliance and Enforcement
2.1. Inspections: JCG conducts random inspections focusing on SOLAS (life-saving appliances, firefighting systems) and MARPOL (oil record book, sewage treatment).
2.2. Penalties: Non-compliance may result in fines (up to ¥500,000 under Port Regulations Law) or detention. Repeat offenders face vessel operation bans.
2.3. Waste Disposal: Strict enforcement of the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law (廃棄物処理法). Discharge of oil or garbage within 12 nautical miles is prohibited.
2.4. Crew Safety: Mandatory compliance with ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, including rest hours and medical checks.
3. Operational Requirements
3.1. Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels >10,000 GT or carrying hazardous materials (Pilotage Law, 水先法). Request must be submitted 24h prior via JCG’s online system.
3.2. Port Entry: Advance notice (via JCG’s e-MIS) required 48h before arrival, including crew list and cargo manifest.
3.3. Emergency Protocols: Immediate reporting of incidents (spills, collisions) to JCG’s Shimonoseki Office (VHF Ch16) is mandatory.
4. Key Authorities
4.1. Shimonoseki Port Authority (SPA): Oversees port operations and infrastructure.
4.2. Japan Coast Guard (JCG): Enforces maritime laws and conducts safety inspections.
4.3. Yamaguchi Prefectural Government: Implements local port ordinances.
5. Safety Measures
5.1. Weather Restrictions: Port closure enforced for typhoons (wind >25m/s) or tsunami warnings (issued by JMA).
5.2. Fire Safety: Mandatory fire drills for vessels in port, supervised by local fire departments.
5.3. Navigation Aids: Maintained by JCG (lighthouses, buoys) with real-time updates via NAVTEX.
6. Environmental Regulations
6.1. Air Emissions: Compliance with IMO 2020 sulfur cap (0.50% sulfur content) is strictly enforced. Vessels must use approved fuel or exhaust cleaning systems (scrubbers) with valid IAPP certificates.
6.2. Ballast Water: Mandatory treatment per the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC). Records must be maintained for 3 years and presented during JCG inspections.
6.3. Noise Control: Vessels must adhere to local noise ordinances (max 75 dB during daytime) when operating near residential areas.
7. Security Measures
7.1. ISPS Code Compliance: All vessels must implement Ship Security Plans (SSP) and maintain valid ISSC certificates. Random security drills are conducted by JCG.
7.2. Restricted Areas: Unauthorized access to port facilities (especially oil terminals) is prohibited under the Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP).
7.3. Crew Identification: Crew members must carry valid seafarer’s identity documents when disembarking, as per Immigration Control Act.
8. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
8.1. Mandatory Reporting: Vessels >300 GT must report to Shimonoseki VTS via VHF Ch.12 when entering/leaving port control zones.
8.2. Traffic Monitoring: Real-time AIS tracking is required for all commercial vessels. Failure to transmit AIS signals may result in penalties.
8.3. Emergency Channels: VHF Ch.16 (distress) and Ch.13 (bridge-to-bridge) must be monitored at all times.
9. Cargo Operations
9.1. Dangerous Goods: Stowage and handling must comply with IMDG Code. Special permits are required for Class 1 (explosives) and Class 7 (radioactive) materials.
9.2. Container Weight: Verified Gross Mass (VGM) declaration is mandatory per SOLAS VI/2. Misdeclaration may lead to cargo rejection.
9.3. Grain Cargo: Additional stability calculations and JCG approval are required for bulk grain shipments.
10. Port Fees and Charges
10.1. Tonnage Dues: Calculated based on GT (0.15 JPY per GT per day for international vessels).
10.2. Pilotage Fees: Standard rate of ¥25,000 for vessels <50,000 GT (additional charges for night operations).
10.3. Waste Disposal Fee: ¥5,000 per cubic meter for oily waste (receipt from licensed contractors required).
11. Crew Welfare
11.1. Shore Leave: Permitted with valid passports and landing permits (processed through ship agents).
11.2. Medical Assistance: Designated port medical facilities at Shimonoseki City Hospital (24/7 emergency services).
11.3. Provisions: Approved suppliers must comply with Japan’s Food Sanitation Act.
12. Port Infrastructure
12.1. Berth Specifications: Main commercial berths (No.1-No.5) have maximum drafts of 9-15m and can accommodate vessels up to 50,000 DWT. Exact specifications must be verified with SPA prior to arrival.
12.2. Mooring Requirements: All vessels must use at least 6 mooring lines (4 head, 2 stern) for berths with >10m depth. Synthetic ropes prohibited for vessels >20,000 GT.
12.3. Port Equipment: 24/7 availability of shore cranes (max 40t capacity) and forklifts (max 10t). Special equipment requires 72-hour advance notice.
13. Bunkering Operations
13.1. Fuel Standards: Only MARPOL Annex VI compliant fuels with bunker delivery notes (BDN) may be supplied. Sampling during bunkering is mandatory.
13.2. Bunker Zones: Designated areas at East Pier and West Terminal. Simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) require JCG approval.
13.3. Spill Response: Immediate activation of ship’s SOPEP required for any spill >1 barrel. Port’s emergency response team must be notified within 15 minutes.
14. Port State Control
14.1. Inspection Criteria: Tokyo MOU inspection regime applies with focus on: structural safety, life-saving appliances, and pollution prevention equipment.
14.2. Deficiency Grading: Minor (rectify before departure), Major (72-hour rectification), Detainable (immediate action required).
14.3. Blacklist: Vessels with 3+ detentions in 12 months may face 6-month entry ban to Japanese ports.
15. Special Operations
15.1. Heavy Lift: Movements exceeding 100t require: route survey, police escort, and SPA approval 7 days in advance.
15.2. Night Navigation: Restricted to vessels <200m LOA with local pilots. Additional lighting required for cargo operations.
15.3. Military Vessels: Separate clearance required through Japan Ministry of Defense (48-hour minimum notice).
16. Local Ordinances
16.1. Fishing Zones: Strict 500m exclusion zone around active fishing areas (enforced by JCG patrols).
16.2. Cultural Protections: No discharge/emissions within 1nm of historical sites (marked on port charts).
16.3. Wildlife Protection: Seasonal speed restrictions (May-July) in whale migration corridors north of the port.
17. Vessel Repair and Maintenance
17.1. Dry Dock Facilities: Available for vessels up to 30,000 DWT with prior booking (minimum 14-day notice required).
17.2. Hot Work Permits: Mandatory for all welding/grinding operations, issued by SPA after fire safety inspection.
17.3. Underwater Cleaning: Prohibited within port limits without special permission from JCG and environmental authorities.
18. Customs Procedures
18.1. Clearance Requirements: All vessels must submit complete customs declaration (Japan Customs Form C-1040) within 2 hours of berthing.
18.2. Prohibited Items: Strict enforcement of Japan’s Customs Law (関税法) regarding narcotics, firearms, and certain food products.
18.3. Temporary Imports: Ship’s spare parts require ATA Carnet or cash deposit (20% of declared value).
19. Immigration Requirements
19.1. Crew Changes: Must be processed through licensed ship agents with 48-hour advance notice to Immigration Bureau.
19.2. Visa Regulations: Crew without Japanese visas may stay maximum 72 hours under shore leave provisions.
19.3. Sign On/Off: All crew movements must be reported to JCG and Immigration within 6 hours of occurrence.
20. Port Emergency Services
20.1. Medical Evacuation: Available through JCG helicopters (contact via VHF Ch.16) for life-threatening cases.
20.2. Fire Fighting: Port maintains 3 fireboats capable of pumping 10,000 liters/minute. Vessels must provide emergency access to all spaces.
20.3. Pollution Response: SPA maintains oil spill equipment for Tier-1 incidents (up to 100 tons). Larger spills activate national response plan.
21. Navigation Warnings
21.1. Tidal Currents: Strong currents (up to 5 knots) occur in Kanmon Strait during spring tides. Pilotage strongly recommended.
21.2. Fog Restrictions: Mandatory speed reduction to 5 knots when visibility <500m. Radar-assisted navigation required.
21.3. Bridge Clearance: Minimum 55m vertical clearance under Kanmon Bridge. Special permission required for tall vessels.
22. Port Communication Protocols
22.1. VHF Channels: Primary working channel is VHF 14 (Port Operations). Emergency communications must use VHF 16.
22.2. Language Requirements: All radio communications must be in English or Japanese. Bilingual pilots are available upon request.
22.3. Reporting Points: Mandatory position reports at Hayatomo Seto and Moji Point when entering/leaving port limits.
23. Dangerous Weather Contingencies
23.1. Typhoon Preparedness: Mandatory evacuation from berths when sustained winds exceed 30 knots. Designated typhoon moorings available.
23.2. Tsunami Procedures: Immediate departure required when JMA issues Level 3 warning. Vessels must move to deep water (>100m).
23.3. Winter Operations: Anti-icing measures required for deck equipment when temperatures fall below -5°C.
24. Special Cargo Handling
24.1. Oversized Cargo: Requires route survey and police escort for road transport. Night movements prohibited.
24.2. Livestock Transport: Strict adherence to Japan’s Animal Quarantine Law. Veterinary inspection mandatory before unloading.
24.3. Refrigerated Containers: Continuous temperature monitoring required. Power failure must be reported immediately to port authorities.
25. Port Entry Restrictions
25.1. Vessel Age Limit: Tankers over 20 years require additional class surveys for port entry approval.
25.2. Flag State Compliance: Vessels from blacklisted flag states subject to enhanced inspections.
25.3. Previous Violations: Vessels with prior MARPOL violations in Japanese waters face entry restrictions for 2 years.
26. Crew Training Requirements
26.1. Port Familiarization: All deck officers must complete Shimonoseki-specific navigation training every 2 years.
26.2. Emergency Drills: Mandatory port-specific abandon ship and fire drills within 24 hours of arrival.
26.3. Pollution Prevention: Oil spill response training required for senior officers on tankers and bulk carriers.
27. Port Security Zones
27.1. Restricted Areas: Clearly marked zones around military facilities and fuel terminals require special access permits.
27.2. Surveillance Systems: 24/7 CCTV monitoring covers all operational areas with 90-day video retention.
27.3. Access Control: Biometric identification required for all personnel entering secure port areas.
28. Vessel Documentation Requirements
28.1. Mandatory Certificates: Original copies of class certificates, P&I insurance, and tonnage certificate must be available for inspection.
28.2. Crew Documentation: Updated crew list with passport copies must be submitted 24 hours before arrival.
28.3. Cargo Documents: Complete set of bills of lading and dangerous goods declarations must accompany all shipments.
29. Port Service Providers
29.1. Approved Contractors: Only SPA-licensed providers permitted for bunkering, waste disposal, and ship repairs.
29.2. Agent Requirements: All vessels must engage a local shipping agent accredited by Japan International Freight Forwarders Association.
29.3. Service Fees: Standardized tariff rates apply for all port services with no private negotiations permitted.
30. Environmental Monitoring
30.1. Water Quality: Continuous monitoring for oil content (limit 15ppm) at all discharge points.
30.2. Air Quality: Real-time monitoring of SOx and NOx emissions at berths with automatic alerts for exceedances.
30.3. Wildlife Protection: Seasonal restrictions on certain operations during migratory bird periods (March-May and September-November).
31. Port Operational Hours
31.1. Standard Operations: 0700-1900 daily, including weekends. Overtime rates apply for after-hours services.
31.2. Holiday Schedule: Reduced operations on 15 national holidays with 48-hour advance notice required for essential services.
31.3. Emergency Services: Available 24/7 through designated port emergency response teams.
32. Vessel Traffic Management
32.1. Traffic Separation Scheme: Mandatory compliance with Kanmon Kaikyo TSS when transiting the strait.
32.2. Speed Limits: Maximum 12 knots within port limits, reduced to 8 knots in congested areas.
32.3. Anchorage Areas: Designated holding zones with 72-hour maximum stay unless authorized by port control.
33. Port Facility Requirements
33.1. Gangway Safety: Certified gangways with safety nets required for all vessel-port interfaces.
33.2. Lighting Standards: Minimum 200 lux illumination required for night operations at all working areas.
33.3. Access Points: All shore connection points must meet ISO standard specifications for electrical and utility hookups.
34. Hazardous Materials Handling
34.1. Explosive Cargo: Special berths available with 500m exclusion zone during operations.
34.2. Chemical Storage: Dedicated bonded warehouses with temperature control for sensitive materials.
34.3. Radiation Monitoring: Mandatory screening for all inbound containers with portal monitors at terminal gates.
35. Port Health Services
35.1. Quarantine Procedures: Medical declaration required 24 hours before arrival for all international vessels.
35.2. Pest Control: Mandatory fumigation certificates required for vessels from designated high-risk areas.
35.3. Food Inspection: Random checks conducted on ship’s provisions by Japan Food Sanitation inspectors.
36. Navigation Equipment Standards
36.1. AIS Requirements: Continuous transmission with updated voyage data (destination, ETA, draft) mandatory.
36.2. Radar Performance: Functional X-band radar with minimum 24nm range required for entry.
36.3. ECDIS Compliance: All vessels >10,000 GT must use ENC charts with latest updates for Japanese waters.
37. Port Waste Management
37.1. Reception Facilities: Certified waste collection available at all berths with 24/7 service for hazardous materials.
37.2. Discharge Records: Mandatory use of IMO waste record book with port receipts for all disposals.
37.3. Segregation Requirements: Strict separation of oil waste, garbage, and recyclables with color-coded containers.
38. Vessel Inspection Procedures
38.1. Pre-Arrival Checks: Electronic submission of vessel condition report 48 hours prior to arrival.
38.2. Safety Equipment: Verification of all lifesaving appliances and firefighting systems by port state control.
38.3. Hull Inspection: Underwater drone surveys available for hull inspections without drydocking.
39. Port Tariffs and Fees
39.1. Tonnage Dues: Calculated based on GT with 10% discount for vessels using clean fuel alternatives.
39.2. Pilotage Charges: Variable rates apply based on vessel length and time of service (night/holiday surcharges).
39.3. Environmental Levy: Additional 5% fee for vessels not meeting Tier III NOx emission standards.
40. Emergency Drills and Training
40.1. Quarterly Drills: Mandatory port security drills conducted every 3 months with participation records maintained.
40.2. Crisis Management: Annual tabletop exercises required for all port facility security officers.
40.3. First Responder Training: Specialized courses available for oil spill response and medical emergencies.
41. Port Information Technology
41.1. Digital Reporting: Mandatory use of Port Community System for all documentation and clearance procedures.
41.2. Cybersecurity: All vessel-to-shore communications must use encrypted channels with regular penetration testing.
41.3. Real-time Monitoring: Automated berth allocation system with live updates via mobile application.
42. Port Infrastructure Specifications
42.1. Berth Dimensions: Maximum LOA 300m, beam 50m, and draft 15m at all deep-water berths.
42.2. Mooring Equipment: Standardized bollard capacity of 150 tons with quick-release mechanisms.
42.3. Fender Systems: Cell-type rubber fenders with energy absorption capacity of 500 kNm at all berths.
43. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
43.1. Reporting System: Mandatory VHF position reports at designated waypoints when entering/leaving VTS area.
43.2. Traffic Monitoring: Radar coverage extends 30 nautical miles with AIS integration for vessel tracking.
43.3. Navigational Warnings: Broadcast every 30 minutes on VHF channel 12 with emergency alerts as needed.
44. Port Bunkering Services
44.1. Fuel Types Available: MGO, IFO 380, LNG, and low-sulfur blends compliant with IMO 2020 standards.
44.2. Bunkering Procedures: Simultaneous operations permitted with prior approval and fire watch present.
44.3. Quality Assurance: All fuel suppliers must provide ISO 8217 certification with batch test results.
45. Dangerous Goods Regulations
45.1. Storage Requirements: IMDG Class 1 explosives stored in dedicated magazines 500m from other facilities.
45.2. Handling Restrictions: No dangerous goods operations permitted during thunderstorms or high winds (>25 knots).
45.3. Emergency Kits: Specialized spill containment equipment required for all Class 3-8 cargo operations.
46. Port Meteorological Services
46.1. Weather Updates: Hourly reports available via VHF, website, and mobile app with tide predictions.
46.2. Storm Warnings: Automatic alerts issued when sustained winds exceed 30 knots or waves >3m forecast.
46.3. Current Data: Real-time tidal current information displayed at all berths and pilot stations.
47. Port Customs Procedures
47.1. Electronic Declaration: Mandatory use of NACCS system for all import/export documentation.
47.2. Cargo Inspection: Random physical inspections conducted with X-ray and radiation scanning.
47.3. Duty-Free Stores: Sealed bonded warehouses available with 24-hour prior notice for access.
48. Vessel Repair Services
48.1. Approved Yards: List of certified repair facilities available from port authority website.
48.2. Hot Work Permits: Required for all welding operations with fire watch present.
48.3. Spare Parts Handling: Temporary import procedures available for emergency repairs.
49. Port Ice Navigation
49.1. Icebreaker Support: Available December-March with 72-hour advance notice.
49.2. Hull Requirements: Ice class vessels prioritized during freezing conditions.
49.3. Winterization: Mandatory for all vessels staying more than 24 hours in sub-zero temperatures.
50. Port Labor Regulations
50.1. Working Hours: Maximum 8-hour shifts with mandatory 1-hour breaks for stevedores.
50.2. Safety Gear: Hi-visibility vests, hard hats, and steel-toe boots required at all times.
50.3. Union Requirements: All port labor must be provided through registered stevedoring companies.
51. Port Passenger Services
51.1. Terminal Facilities: Dedicated immigration and customs clearance for cruise passengers.
51.2. Disembarkation: Staggered schedules enforced for vessels carrying more than 500 passengers.
51.3. Health Screening: Thermal cameras and medical questionnaire required for all arriving passengers.
52. Port Communication Protocols
52.1. VHF Channels: Primary working channel 16, secondary operations on channel 12 and 14.
52.2. Emergency Signals: Three long blasts repeated every 2 minutes for port evacuation.
52.3. Digital Notices: NAVTEX broadcasts for maritime safety information (MSI) updated hourly.
53. Port Cargo Handling
53.1. Container Operations: Gantry cranes with 50-ton capacity operating at 25 moves per hour.
53.2. Bulk Loading: Automated systems for grain/coal with dust suppression measures in place.
53.3. Breakbulk Limits: Maximum single lift capacity of 100 tons with certified slinging gear.
54. Port Security Drills
54.1. Monthly Exercises: Mandatory ISPS Code compliant drills with port police participation.
54.2. Threat Levels: Three-tier security system (Normal/Heightened/Exceptional) with corresponding measures.
54.3. Access Control: RFID chip identification required for all personnel in restricted areas.
55. Port Tug Services
55.1. Minimum Requirements: Two 60-ton bollard pull tugs for vessels over 200m LOA.
55.2. Standby Charges: Hourly rates apply when tugs are on station but not actively engaged.
55.3. Emergency Response: Dedicated firefighting tugs available with 15-minute response time.
56. Port Environmental Compliance
56.1. Ballast Water: Mandatory exchange 200nm from coast or approved treatment system use.
56.2. Air Emissions: Continuous monitoring for SOx/NOx with real-time reporting to authorities.
56.3. Noise Limits: 85dB maximum at property boundaries during night hours (2200-0600).
