Port Harbour or Marina: Maetsuyoshi, Hirado Island, North Western Kyushu
Latitude: 33 12.59'N
Longitude: 129 37.38'E
Major Attractions: This is a convenient port to stop at if you are day sailing up the coast of Kyushu.
Nearest Port of Entry: Sasebo
Formalities Arrival: Prior permission should have been sought from the Ministry of Lands to enter the harbor. On arrival call Coast Guard on VHF16. The Coast Guard's pontoon is clearly visible as you enter the small harbor. Tie up here. Your paperwork will be checked and they will alert City Hall. (See Marina & Mooring Field options). This is a closed port.
Formalities Departure: None
Immigration: Not available
Customs: Not available
Coast Guard: Not available
Quarantine: Not available
Harbour master: Not required to visit
Berthing Mooring Options: There is a floating ferry pontoon in the harbor that can be used but it's on a first come first served basis. Alternatively one of the concrete walls can be used as a side tie. There is no charge. The employees of the local fishermen's co-op will direct you to which ones are free
Anchorage Options: None
Yacht Club Facilities: None
Haulout Facilities: Unknown. There is a rail haulout of 25 tons in the Hirado City harbor but this could only be used by full keel boats.
Trades: Unknown
Websites: http://www.city.hirado.nagasaki.jp/
Japanese Small Ships Guide: H808W
Charts: Japanese W1249, H194W
Sailing Directions: Japan Pilot Vol. II
Water: Available from the fishermen's co-op. Need to jerry jug.
Fuel: Can be arranged through a mini tanker,
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: None
ATMs: As always the most efficient way to get money from your overseas account in Japan is through the Post Office system of ATMs. There is a Japan Post office in the village.
Shops & Markets: There are a few convenience stores, but the offering is poor. Most people go to Hirado Township.
Postal Services: There is a Japan Post office in the village.
Hotels & Restaurants: Unknown
Internet/Phones: See "All about the Internet in Japan" on this Blog. International coin and card 'phones are available in the little office halfway up the hill that passes as the ferry terminal. No information on the internet.
Laundry Services: Unknown
Air/Sea/Road Transport: There is a ferry to Sasebo and Hirado. There is a bus to other locations on Hirado Island.

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.