Name and Location

The Erimo Misaki Lighthouse is located in Hokkaido, Japan, situated on the easternmost tip of Hokkaido's Erimo Peninsula.

Construction and History

The Erimo Misaki Lighthouse was constructed in 1886 during the Meiji period to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships passing through the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse's design is attributed to architect Kuroki Takashi, who drew inspiration from European lighthouse designs.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 22 meters and has a focal height of 24 meters above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features a distinctive light characteristic: a Fl(3)W.15s pattern, which consists of three flashes of white light every 15 seconds. This unique pattern allows ships to easily identify the lighthouse and adjust their course accordingly.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can reach the Erimo Misaki Lighthouse by driving along Dōro, a scenic coastal road that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscape. While visitors are not permitted to enter the lighthouse tower, they can enjoy the surrounding area and take in the stunning views.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands on a rocky outcropping overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with towering cliffs and rugged coastline creating a dramatic backdrop. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and meandering rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, the Erimo Misaki Lighthouse has been the subject of numerous shipwrecks and maritime accidents throughout its history. Despite these challenges, the lighthouse has remained a vital aid to navigation, earning it a reputation as one of Hokkaido's most iconic landmarks.

Technical and Operational Details

Initially, the Erimo Misaki Lighthouse was operated manually by lighthouse keepers until 1976, when it was automated to reduce maintenance costs and improve efficiency. Today, the lighthouse is still operational, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners in the region.

Further Information

• The Erimo Misaki Lighthouse is situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Hakodate City.
• The lighthouse's original light source was kerosene, which was later replaced with electric lighting in the 1960s.
• Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and surrounding landscape by hiking along the nearby coastal trails or exploring the Erimo Misaki Lighthouse Museum.