埠頭(ふとう)

Refers to a waterfront structure for ships to dock. While the kanji 埠(ふ) specifically denotes a wharf or landing place, it is rarely used outside this compound.

Common collocations

• 埠頭(ふとう)に着(つ)く: to arrive at the wharf
• 埠頭(ふとう)で荷(に)を降(お)ろす: to unload cargo at the dock
• コンテナ埠頭(ふとう): container terminal
• 旅客(りょかく)埠頭(ふとう): passenger terminal

Similar words

• 港(みなと): port, harbor — the broader term for the entire port area
• 桟橋(さんばし): pier, jetty — a narrower structure extending into the water
• 波止場(はとば): wharf — a slightly literary or nostalgic synonym

Usage

Major Japanese ports like 横浜(よこはま), 神戸(こうべ), and 東京(とうきょう) have well-known named 埠頭(ふとう) that double as landmarks and tourist destinations.