Japan, as an island country with a highly developed industrial economy, is home to several major seaports that play a key role in both domestic and international trade. Below is an overview of the top seaports in Japan, highlighting their main features and container throughput statistics.
Top 5 largest ports in Japan
No. 5 – Port of Osaka (JPOSA)
The Port of Osaka is a vital hub for Asian trade, handling a significant volume of Japan’s industrial and consumer goods. Located in the Kansai region along Osaka Bay, it is surrounded by a densely populated urban area, which facilitates trade in western Japan.
- Key goods: Chemicals, textiles, electronics, food products
- Annual container throughput (2023): 2.3 million TEU
- Growth rate (2022/2023): -6.4%
No. 4 – Port of Nagoya (JPNGO)
The Port of Nagoya is Japan’s primary export hub for the automotive industry, especially for Toyota, whose headquarters are located nearby. Situated in Aichi Prefecture on Ise Bay, the port provides convenient access to key maritime routes.
- Key goods: Automobiles, chemicals, machinery
- Annual container throughput (2023): 2.7 million TEU
- Growth rate (2022/2023): +0.7%
No. 3 – Port of Kobe (JPKOB)
One of Japan’s oldest international trading ports, the Port of Kobe features deep-water facilities capable of accommodating large vessels. It is located in Hyogo Prefecture on the southern shore of Osaka Bay and supports trade in the Kansai region.
- Key goods: Steel, machinery, textiles
- Annual container throughput (2023): 2.8 million TEU
- Growth rate (2022/2023): -1.9%
No. 2 – Port of Yokohama (JPYOK)
Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest container port and plays a key role in global trade, especially with Central and South America. Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, just south of Tokyo on Tokyo Bay, its strategic location makes it a major entry point for imports into Japan.
- Key goods: Industrial equipment, chemicals, food products
- Annual container throughput (2023): 3.0 million TEU
- Growth rate (2022/2023): +1.4%
The biggest seaport in Japan: Port of Tokyo (JPTYO)
The Port of Tokyo is one of Japan’s largest and most technologically advanced ports. It serves as a key economic hub for the country, acting as a central hub for imports and exports. Located in the Kanto region along Tokyo Bay, it is the primary trading port for eastern Japan.
- Key goods: Automobiles, machinery, electronics, consumer goods
- Annual container throughput (2023): 4.5 million TEU
- Growth rate (2022/2023): +3.2%
Explore seaports in other countries around the world as well.
