Tsugaru Strait, Maritime strait between Honshu and Hokkaido, Japan.
The Tsugaru Strait extends 19.5 kilometers at its narrowest point, connecting the Sea of Japan with the Pacific Ocean through waters reaching depths of 200 meters.
The September 1954 sinking of ferry Toya Maru in the strait resulted in 1,172 casualties, marking one of Japan's most severe maritime incidents.
The strait functions as a natural border known as Blakiston's Line, separating distinct animal species between the northern island of Hokkaido and the main island of Honshu.
The Seikan Tunnel runs beneath the strait, allowing trains to travel between the islands in 50 minutes instead of the traditional four-hour ferry crossing.
Japan maintains only three nautical miles of territorial waters in the strait, permitting international military vessels to navigate through the central channel.
Location: Hokkaido
Location: Aomori Prefecture
Part of: Sea of Japan
GPS coordinates: 41.33333,140.33333
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:22
Maritime straits are essential passages for navigation and global trade. These natural waterways between lands connect oceans and seas, allowing the movement of merchant ships and international maritime transport. From the English Channel to the Strait of Malacca, these passages are crucial for the maritime economy and commercial exchanges between continents.
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