HEKINAN

city, Aichi ken (prefecture), Honshu, Japan, at the mouth of the Yahagi-gawa (Yahagi River), facing Chita-wan (Chita Bay). It was formed in 1948 by the merger of the towns of Ohama, Shinkawa, and Tarao. During the Tokugawa era (1603-1867), Ohama was an important port for the shipment of rice, salt, and sake (rice wine) to Edo (now Tokyo). Shinkawa, settled in 1700, was known for its pottery and roof tile manufacture. Such traditional activities continue beside modern industries that include the manufacture of transport equipment. Pop. (1980) 62,021.