Name and Location

The Echizen Cape Lighthouse, officially known as越前岬灯台 (Echizen Cape Lighthouse), stands tall on the eastern coast of Japan's Fukui Prefecture.

Construction and History

Built during the Meiji period in 1872, the lighthouse was designed by Japanese architect Kikukawa Hōichi. The structure has been guiding mariners for over 140 years, marking a significant milestone in Japan's maritime development.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed from stone and brick, with a height of approximately 22.4 meters (73 feet) and a focal plane of about 56.3 meters (185 feet) above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features a first-order Fresnel lens, emitting a red light with a range of approximately 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers). The light characteristic is a Fl(3)W.15s sequence, meaning the light flashes three times every 15 seconds, followed by a period of darkness.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, although the tower itself is not open to the public due to safety concerns. The surrounding area offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby Chigadaira coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding area provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Chigadaira coastline.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was originally operated manually, but in the mid-20th century, it was automated to reduce maintenance costs and improve efficiency. Although still functional for navigation purposes, the lighthouse no longer serves as an active aid to navigation.

Further Information

Historical significance aside, the Echizen Cape Lighthouse remains a notable landmark on Japan's maritime heritage.