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Port of Otaru

JPOTR🇯🇵Japan

Port Location

About Port of Otaru

Otaru Port is a harbor located on Ishikari Bay, Hokkaido, Japan. It serves as a significant port for the region, handling various cargo types. The port is equipped with tug services and is a key maritime gateway for Hokkaido.

Background
Otaru is a city and port in Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan, northwest of Sapporo. The city faces Ishikari Bay and the Sea of Japan, and has long served as the main port of the bay. With its many historical buildings, Otaru is a popular tourist destination. Because it is a 25-minute drive from Sapporo, it has grown as a commuter town. As of July 31, 2023, the city had an estimated population of 107,432 and a population density of 441 persons per km2. The total area is 243.83 km2 (94.14 sq mi). Although it is the largest city in Shiribeshi Subprefecture, the subprefecture's capital is the more centrally located Kutchan.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
11ft
Elevation
-9999m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
No
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Mobile
Drydock
U
Repair Code
C

History

Established
1922

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Identification

UN/LOCODE
JPOTR
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Time Zone
UTC+9
Feature Type
HBR (Harbor)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
JP-01
Area
Japan Coast
Body of Water
Ishikari Bay
Latitude
43.2005°
Longitude
141.0180°

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
61230 →
GeoNames ID
2128571 →
Wikidata
Q242108 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Official Site
www.city.otaru.lg.jp →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Otaru?+
The approach to Otaru is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Otaru South Breakwater Lighthouse at 0.3 NM to the ESE. Other aids include Otaru North Auxiliary Breakwater (0.4 NM E), Shukutsu (1.9 NM N), Hiyori Yama (2.3 NM N), Ishikariwan Ko (12 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Otaru on?+
The Port of Otaru is situated on the Sea of Japan in JP. The area falls within the temperate maritime climate zone, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Otaru?+
You can track vessels near Otaru (JPOTR) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for JPOTR on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Otaru?+
The Port of Otaru operates in the UTC+9 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.