LocationandTopography
MURORAN
LOCATION AND TOPOGRAPHY
The port of Muroran is located at 42°21'N 140°58'E on the southern coast of the Japanese island of Hokkaido (Figure V-132).
Muroran Harbor is situated on the west side of and close to the end of a broadly pointed, southward extending peninsula that terminates in Chikyu Cape (Figure V-133).
Muroran Harbor opens to the west into the waters of Uchiura Bay. Uchiura Bay is roughly circular in shape with an approximate 28 nmi diameter that is open southeastward to the Pacific Ocean through a 15 nmi opening between Chikyu Cape and Suna Point.
The terrain of southern Hokkaido is mountainous. Elevations reach 2,989 ft (911 m) within 5 nmi north of the port, while some peaks reach 4,347 ft (1,325 m) less than 20 nmi to the northeast. Hills with elevations to 656 ft (200 m) are located on the small peninsula southwest of the harbor. The harbor area is open through the harbor entrance to Uchiura Bay on the west and low-lying terrain east of the port provides little protection. The terrain configuration near the port creates a natural channel for winds with westerly or easterly components.
Source: http://www.nrlmry.navy.mil/port_studies/thh-nc/japan/muroran/text/sect1.htm
