Kochi Port, Japan
10 May 2009 | Kochi Prefecture.
Mauro
Port Harbour or Marina: Kochi, Kochi Prefecture.
Latitude: 33 32.365'N
Longitude: 133 33.362'E
Major Attractions: Kochi Castle, Museum of Art, Historical Museum and the Yosakoi-Matsuri festival.
Nearest Port of Entry: Kochi
Formalities Arrival: This is an open port. If entering from another Japanese port report to Customs. If from overseas CIQ facilities are available. Port Authority will also visit.
Formalities Departure: Advise Customs.
Immigration: Tel: 088-832-5431. Address: Kochi Port Joint Government Bldg., 5-4-55 Sanbashi-dori,
Customs: Tel: 088-832-6131
Coast Guard: Call on VHF16 but it is unlikely they will answer.
Quarantine: Available
Harbour master: Not required to visit
Berthing Mooring Options: There is a bridge that will need to be negotiated before you can enter the main port area. There is a med style marina in Niida on your starboard after you've turned the river after passing under the bridge, but it is always crowded and gets shallow in places. The wharf we tied up to was at Sanbashidoryonchome. See above waypoints.
Anchorage Options: There are several possibilities within Kochi Port (not tried) but it is such a busy location that it will be uncomfortable.
Yacht Club Facilities: None
Haulout Facilities: Details unknown but known to be available.
Trades: Mechanical engineering, electronics and steel welding.
Websites: www.pref.kochi.jp
Japanese Small Ships Guide: H802W
Charts: Japanese W110, W108, W100A
Sailing Directions:
Water: Water may be had from the construction/security enclosure by prior permission.
Fuel: There is an Eneos service station just a few metres from the wharf that will provide a mini tanker on call.
LPG: Available, however, non Japanese tanks are difficult to refill due to Government safety regulations. Ocassionally, some gas resellers will fill your tank, especially if it is a small family owned establishment.
Marine Vendors: Unknown
ATMs: As always the most efficient way to get money from your overseas account in Japan is through the Post Office system of ATMs. The main post office is located near Kochi JR Station to the west (on Dencha Dori). There are several other smaller post offices dotted around the city.
Shops & Markets: Seibu, Daimaru and other department stores have branches here. Also undercover shopping at Obiya-Machi Arcade and Ohashi Dori. Fuji Bookstore has a few English language paperbacks. There is a Sunday market (5 minutes walk fro the main station) and an indoor food court at Hirome Ichiba, 15 minutes walk. The nearest supermarket to the wharf is on the tram line just after the Hariyama Bashi crossroad.
Postal Services: The main post office is located near Kochi JR Station to the west (on Dencha Dori). There are several other smaller post offices dotted around the city.
Hotels & Restaurants: There is an extensive choice of luxury, business and budget accommodation in Kochi and surrounds. A large number of restaurants and fast food places are available.
Internet/Phones: See "All about the Internet in Japan" on this Blog. International coin and card 'phones (grey) are available throughout the city. There are dozens of internet cafes and free wifi is available in most business hotel lobbies. Try Internet Cafe Lagoon, 1-13, 4-chome, Takasushin-machi, Kochi-city, Kochi, Open 24hrs.
Laundry Services: Coin machines available at Kochi Sakura Hotel, 2-3-11 Kitahonmachi
Air/Sea/Road Transport: The "Toden" trams started their service in 1904 and are considered a tourist attraction. There is a terminal 5 minutes walk from the wharf. This tram goes all the way to Kochi JR Station. From here you can connect to other parts of Japan. Several bus services and the Kochi Ryoma airport service Kochi City. There are several car rental offices near the rail station. The main interstate bus terminal, Dentetsu Building, is located at Harimayabashi.
Special Notes: The main tourist information centre is located in the lobby of Kochi JR Station. Tel: 088-826-3337.
Other Information: Kōchi's most famous festival is the Yosakoi which is held in August. Teams of dancers dance to traditional and modern songs at various places around Kōchi. The total number of dancers is in the thousands.
Disclaimer: The information made available herein is intended as purely a broad guideline for the intending cruising yachtsman. It is not intended as, nor should it be used for navigation. The authors accept no responsibility for its accuracy and therefore cannot be held liable for any consequences of its use.