UN/LOCODE: JPIMI📍 Japan

Port of Imari (UN/LOCODE JPIMI)

❖ Coordinates: 33.2646°N, 129.8803°E

❖ Time Zone: Asia/Tokyo

❖ UN/LOCODE: JPIMI

## About the Port The Port of Imari (UN/LOCODE: JPIMI), located in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, serves as a critical maritime gateway for the western region of the island. Situated along the Imari Bay at coordinates 33.2645856°N, 129.880269°E, it operates within the Asia/Tokyo timezone and plays a pivotal role in both historical trade and contemporary logistics. The port specializes in handling containerized cargo, bulk commodities, and automobiles, while also maintaining its legacy as a hub for the ceramics industry, notably Arita porcelain. Its strategic position near the Tsushima Strait enhances connectivity to the East China Sea and broader Asia-Pacific shipping networks. ## History ### Historical Significance Imari’s maritime prominence dates to the 17th century during the Edo period, when it emerged as Japan’s premier port for exporting Arita ware. This porcelain, renowned for its intricate blue-and-white underglaze patterns, was shipped globally via the Dutch East India Company and other trading entities. The port’s success catalyzed the growth of the Arita kilns, whose products became emblematic of Japanese ceramic artistry. Imari’s historical trade links extended to Europe, Southeast Asia, and China, establishing it as a cornerstone of Japan’s early international commerce. ### Evolution and Modernization By the 20th century, Imari transitioned from an artisanal export hub to a modern industrial port. Post-World War II reconstruction and infrastructure investments in the 1960s–70s modernized its facilities, aligning it with Japan’s rapid economic expansion. Today, it balances heritage preservation with advanced logistics capabilities, supporting Saga Prefecture’s diversified economy while retaining symbolic ties to its porcelain legacy. ## Infrastructure & Facilities ### Terminal Capabilities The port boasts a multipurpose terminal with a cargo throughput capacity exceeding 10 million tons annually. Key facilities include a container terminal equipped with gantry cranes capable of handling 10,000 TEU vessels, alongside specialized berths for bulk cargo such as steel coils and automobiles. The Port of Imari Terminal, operated by the Kyushu-based logistics consortium, features automated container tracking systems and rail connections to expedite inland distribution. ### Technical Specifications The port accommodates vessels up to 100,000 DWT, with water depths of 12–14 meters alongside its quays. It includes 14 berths, among them two dedicated roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) facilities for automotive shipments. Storage areas span over 30 hectares, with covered warehouses for weather-sensitive cargo and open yards for dry bulk materials. The port’s proximity to the Kyushu Expressway enhances road accessibility, while its rail intermodal yard connects to the Hakata-Minami Line, linking it to Fukuoka’s major logistics hubs. ## Economic Importance ### Regional and Industrial Impact Imari’s economy is deeply intertwined with Saga Prefecture’s manufacturing and agricultural sectors. While ceramics remain a cultural and commercial icon, the port facilitates trade in steel products, automotive parts, and specialty chemicals. It also supports Saga’s agricultural exports, including rice and vegetables, leveraging its refrigerated cargo infrastructure. The port directly employs over 1,200 workers and contributes significantly to regional GDP through logistics services and supporting industries. ### Connectivity and Integration As part of Kyushu’s maritime network, Imari complements larger ports like Hakata and Kagoshima. Its role in intra-regional trade is vital, particularly for short-sea shipping routes that reduce transportation costs and transit times. The port’s development aligns with Japan’s “Society 5.0” initiative, integrating smart technologies to optimize cargo handling and environmental sustainability, as highlighted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Japan’s Maritime Policy↗. ## Trade Routes & Major Cargo ### Key Trade Routes Imari serves as a node in Asia’s east-west maritime corridors, primarily linking to Busan (South Korea) and Shanghai (China). These routes handle over 60% of the port’s containerized traffic, with services connecting to major transshipment hubs like Singapore and Kaohsiung. The port also participates in north-south trade routes, exporting Saga-grown produce to Taiwan and Southeast Asia via specialized reefer vessels. ### Cargo Categories The port’s cargo profile reflects a mix of traditional and modern commodities. Ceramics exports account for 15–20% of its volume, while manufactured goods (machinery, textiles) and raw materials (steel, wood pulp) dominate. Automotive shipments, particularly from Kyushu’s assembly plants, utilize dedicated RoRo facilities, and containerized electronics from nearby Kitakyushu further diversify its portfolio. Bulk cargo includes cement and aggregates for construction, supporting regional infrastructure projects. ### Environmental and Regulatory Notes Imari adheres to Japan’s stringent port environmental standards, with initiatives to reduce emissions via shore power systems and eco-friendly vessel turnaround processes. It is certified under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) MARPOL Annex VI regulations, ensuring compliance with sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emission limits. --- This structured overview underscores Imari’s dual identity as a historic trading post and a modern logistics center, reflecting broader trends in Japan’s maritime sectors. For further details on Saga Prefecture’s maritime policies, visit Saga Prefecture Official Website↗.

Port Intelligence

UN/LOCODE

JPIMI

Country

Japan

Province / Region

Saga

Latitude

33.264586

Longitude

129.880269

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo

Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Imari?

The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Imari is JPIMI.

Where is Port of Imari located?

The Port of Imari is located in Japan, Saga. Its coordinates are 33.2646°N, 129.8803°E.

What time zone is Port of Imari in?

Port of Imari operates in the Asia/Tokyo time zone.

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About the World Port Index

This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.

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