East Asia Seas marinas
East Asia’s seas combine island routes in Japan and Korea, mainland coasts and long passages between countries.
East Asia Seas
This region covers very different shores, from the northern Sea of Japan to Taiwan and the southern Japanese islands. A journey can focus on one archipelago or stretch of coast; international passages require separate preparation. Islands and small port towns sit alongside major industrial harbours.
There is no single season for the whole region. The length of the warm season differs between north and south, while summer rain, typhoons and winter monsoon winds affect each area differently. Currents matter in narrow passages, tides on Korea’s west coast, and swell on exposed shores.
Cruising rules and access for foreign yachts differ considerably between countries. The presence of a port or marina does not mean that international arrivals can be cleared there or that onward coastal cruising is unrestricted.
Expand a feature to see the countries and areas it applies to.
Sailing character
Island hopping · 2
- Japan
- South Korea
Open coast · 2
- Japan
- South Korea
Tides · 2
- Japan
- South Korea
What to explore ashore
Coastal nature · 2
- Japan
- South Korea
Historic towns · 1
- Japan
Islands · 2
- Japan
- South Korea
Watch out
Sea fog · 1
- JapanPossible in various areas in spring and summer; particularly characteristic of the northern Pacific coast and also found in the Seto Inland Sea.
Currents in straits · 2
- Japan — Seto Inland SeaEspecially important in the Seto Inland Sea straits and its connecting passages; transit timing depends on the local tidal stream.
- South Korea — South coast and islandsIn passages between the southern and southwestern islands, tidal streams can substantially affect speed and transit timing.
Tidal access · 1
- South Korea — West coastOn the west coast, tides substantially change nearshore depths and access through shallow approaches.
Marinas on the map
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Countries in East Asia Seas
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