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Port of Wakkanai

JPWKJ🇯🇵Japan

Port Location

About Port of Wakkanai

Also known as: Wakkanai Ko, Wakkanai Kō, Wakkanai-ko, Wakkanai-kō, Wakkanai-wan, wakkanaikou

Located on Sōya Bay in northern Hokkaido, Japan, Wakkanai Port serves as a vital distribution center for the region. It is a key hub for ferry services to Rishiri and Rebun Islands, and historically to Sakhalin. The port also supports local fisheries and plays a role in regional trade.

Background
The Port of Wakkanai (稚内港) is a major port located in the Municipality of Wakkanai, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. Sakhalin lies about 62.81 kilometers (39.03 mi) to the north. Many ferries that go/come to/from Rishiri Island, Rebun Island and stop in Sakhalin in Russia. It is also a distribution center for industrial materials and essential items for residents in the North of Hokkaido. Otherwise, the port is a base for inshore and offshore fisheries, and the port plays a role in Sakhalin-III. In 2007, the port was registered as Minato Oasis (みなとオアシス), and it was named "Minato Oasis Wakkanai" (みなとオアシスわっかない) by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Current Conditions

Loading current conditions…

Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
9ft
Elevation
-9999m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
No
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed, Mobile, Floating
Drydock
S
Repair Code
C

History

Established
1780

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Identification

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

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Fair

Region

Subdivision
JP-01
Body of Water
Sōya Bay
Latitude
43.4167°
Longitude
141.6833°

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
61260 →
GeoNames ID
2127514 →
Wikidata
Q11596341 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Seamark Type
harbour
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Wakkanai?+
The approach to Wakkanai is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Atsuta Ko Lighthouse at 11.2 NM to the W with a nominal range of 7 NM. Other aids include Kō West Breakwater (11.2 NM W), Ishikari (17 NM SW), Hamamasu Ko North Breakwater Head (17.3 NM NW), Poro (19.9 NM NW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Wakkanai on?+
The Port of Wakkanai 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 Wakkanai?+
You can track vessels near Wakkanai (JPWKJ) 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 JPWKJ on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Wakkanai?+
The Port of Wakkanai 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.