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大下島灯台(ŌshimajimaLighthouse)

乙52-3 Sekizenōge, Imabari, Ehime 794-1103, Japan

Name and Location

The Ōshimajima Lighthouse is located in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.

Construction and History

The Ōshimajima Lighthouse was built in 1904, making it over 118 years old. Its construction dates back to the early 20th century, when maritime aid and navigation were crucial for the region's economy and trade.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a characteristic example of Japanese architecture from the early 20th century, with a tower standing approximately 15 meters (49 feet) tall. The structure is made of concrete, with a white lantern room that houses the light source.

Light and Navigation

The Ōshimajima Lighthouse originally featured a first-order Fresnel lens with a white light that emitted a fixed beam. In 1964, it was upgraded to a rotating lens with a yellow light, which continues to be used today. The beacon is powered by electricity.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Ōshimajima Lighthouse is situated on the coast of Imabari City, near the mouth of the Ōshimajima River. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the parking area. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public for guided tours, the surrounding area offers scenic views and walking trails.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands amidst a picturesque coastal landscape, with views of the Inland Sea (Seto Naikai) and the nearby islands. The area is also home to various wildlife, including birds and marine life.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Technical and Operational Details

The Ōshimajima Lighthouse has been recognized as an important cultural property by the Japanese government, reflecting its significance in maritime history and heritage.

Further Information

  • References:
    • Japan Coast Guard (Kaiho): "Ōshimajima Lighthouse" [Webpage]
    • Ehime Prefecture: "Imabari City" [Webpage]

Details

Name大下島灯台(ŌshimajimaLighthouse)
CityImabari
CountryJapan
Coordinates34.1888634, 132.9181087
Websitehttps://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/06kanku/imabari/
Year of construction1904
Events
Historic significanceRecognizedasanimportantculturalpropertybytheJapanesegovernment
Keeper stories
Stories
Architectural styleJapaneselighthousesfromtheearly20thcentury
Construction materialConcrete
Focal height
Tower height15meters(49feet)
Renovations1964:Upgradedtoarotatinglenswithayellowlight
Landscape typeCoastallandscape
View descriptionViewsoftheInlandSeaandnearbyislands
Light characteristicFixedbeam,laterupgradedtorotatinglens
Light range