Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel “Kaguya” completes 200 STS refuelling operations

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) on Thursday (8 October) said LNG bunkering vessel Kaguya has completed its 200th ship-to-ship (STS) LNG bunkering operation in Mikawa Bay, Japan.

Kaguya, which began operations in October 2020, was the first LNG bunkering vessel to operate in Japan. It is owned and operated by joint venture companies in which “K” LINE has invested.

The joint ventures, Central LNG Shipping Japan Corporation and Central LNG Marine Fuel Japan Corporation, were jointly established by “K” LINE, JERA Global Energy Solutions Pte Ltd, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha and Toyota Tsusho Corporation.

Since October 2020, “K” LINE has conducted LNG bunkering operations for LNG-fuelled vessels in the Chubu region through the joint ventures.

The businesses have established a stable LNG fuel supply chain in the region, supplying vessels including “K” LINE’s LNG-fuelled car carrier CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN, while continuing to expand their LNG bunkering services.

Photo credit: “K” LINE
Published: 9 October 2026