The bow side crane was also abolished, which led to a considerable simplification of the structure and equipment.

In addition, large anti-sway tanks are installed on both sides of the rear part of the superstructure, similar to JS Nichinan.

[2] The main engine is said to be a diesel-electric system similar to the JS Nichinan, and integrated electric propulsion shared with the onboard service generator.

Of these, the second observation room is a so-called wet laboratory that handles samples collected from the sea and the seabed.

Ocean surveying equipment includes a sea beam 2112 type multi-narrow beam sounder installed on the bottom of the bridge, a mud sampler, and a proton magnetometer (magnetic resonance magnetometer).

Shōnan was laid down on 7 August 1997 and launched on 1 June 1998 by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Tamano Shipyard.

Around 3:00 am on April 23, 2016, the Chinese Navy's Type 053H3 frigate, Jiaxing, Lianyungang, and the Type 903 supply ship Gaoyouhu sailing north from the Pacific Ocean to the East China Sea 65 km south-southwest of Nakanokami Island and 74 km south-southeast of Yonaguni Island.