Nichinan

▪ Japan

 city, southern Miyazaki ken (prefecture), southeastern Kyushu, Japan. It lies just inland from the Pacific Ocean. A type of Japanese cedar called obi has been cultivated in the area since the early 19th century and forms the basis of the city's shipbuilding, timber, paper, and pulp industries. Nichinan's port, Aburatsu, is the main centre for coastal fishing (bonito, yellowtail, tuna) in southern Kyushu. Agricultural products include sweet potatoes, barley, and tobacco. The city is bordered (north) by low, rounded hills, and its picturesque seacoast is part of Nichinan-kaigan Quasi-national Park, a popular tourist destination. Pop. (2005 prelim.) 44,229.

* * *