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足摺岬灯台

1349 Ashizurimisaki, Tosashimizu, Kochi 787-0315, Japan

Name and Location

The Ashizuri Zaki Lighthouse is located on the southern coast of Japan in Kochi Prefecture, situated at 1349 Ashizurimisaki, Tosashimizu, Kochi 787-0315, Japan.

Construction and History

The Ashizuri Zaki Lighthouse was constructed in 1858 during the Meiji era (1868-1912). At that time, Japan was undergoing rapid modernization, and the need for reliable navigation aids became increasingly important. The lighthouse's original purpose was to guide ships safely through the treacherous waters surrounding the southern Japanese coast.

Architecture and Materials

The structure's design is characterized by its simple yet elegant architecture, featuring a white tower with a red lantern room and a cylindrical shape.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a white light with a flash characteristic of Fl (3) W 15s, indicating three flashes every 30 seconds, followed by a 15-second period of darkness. This pattern helps mariners distinguish the Ashizuri Zaki Lighthouse from others in the region. As part of its original function, the lighthouse serves as an important aid to navigation for vessels traveling along the Pacific coast of Japan.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Ashizuri Zaki Lighthouse is not open to the general public, as it remains an active aid to navigation. However, visitors can admire the structure's architecture and stunning surroundings from a distance.

Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the surrounding area.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore available.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse's operation has been automated in recent years, but human maintenance is still necessary to ensure its continued function. The Japanese Coast Guard is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the facility.

Further Information

For further reading, please refer to the English Wikipedia article for Ashizuri Zaki Lighthouse: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashizuri_Zaki_Lighthouse

Details

Name足摺岬灯台
CityTosashimizu
CountryJapan
Coordinates32.7240332, 133.0202873
Year of construction1858
Historic significanceplayed a crucial role in maritime navigation for decades
Architectural stylecylindrical with red lantern room
Focal height61
Accessiblefalse
Landscape typecoastal
View descriptionrocky outcropping overlooking the Pacific Ocean
Guided toursfalse
AIS Radartrue
Light characteristicFl (3) W 15s
Light range12
Automatedtrue