Rokkosaki Lighthouse
I-51 Noroshimachi, Suzu, Ishikawa 927-1441, Japan
Name and Location
The Rokkosaki Lighthouse is located in Suzu, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan.
Construction and History
The lighthouse was constructed in 1903 during the Meiji era (1868-1912), a period of significant modernization and industrialization in Japan. Its construction marked a milestone in the country's efforts to develop its ports and improve maritime safety.
Architecture and Materials
Sited on the rocky coast of Suzu, the Rokkosaki Lighthouse stands at an elevation of approximately 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level. The structure is built from stone and brick, with a square base and a tapering tower rising to a height of about 24 meters (79 feet). Its architectural style blends traditional Japanese and Western influences.
Light and Navigation
The lighthouse is equipped with a Fresnel lens, which emits a white light that can be seen for up to 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) out to sea. The light characteristic is Fl (3) W.15s, meaning it flashes three times every 15 seconds. Initially, the lighthouse was operated by human keepers until its automation in the mid-20th century. Today, it remains an active aid to navigation, serving as a critical beacon for mariners navigating Japan's Pacific coast.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, which offer stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Sea of Japan. However, the interior is currently not open to the public due to safety concerns.
Notable Views and Landscape
The lighthouse grounds provide breathtaking views of the coastline and the sea.
Technical and Operational Details
The Japanese government's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) is responsible for managing the lighthouse. The lighthouse has been recognized as a National Important Cultural Property () in Japan, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Further Information
- https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E9%A4%90%E5%B8%85%E7%92%8C%E6%97%8F">Wikipedia article on Rokkosaki Lighthouse
Details
Name | Rokkosaki Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Suzu |
Country | Japan |
Coordinates | 37.5289408, 137.3264701 |
Year of construction | 1903 |
Historic significance | important maritime aid for navigation and historic landmark |
Stories | milestone in Japan's efforts to develop its ports and improve maritime safety |
Architectural style | traditional Japanese and Western influences |
Construction material | stone and brick |
Focal height | 20 |
Tower height | 24 |
Heritage status | true |
Renovations | automation in the mid-20th century |
Access description | by car, footpath |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | rocky coast |
View description | stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Sea of Japan |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Nearby attractions | Japan Lighthouse Association |
Light characteristic | Fl (3) W.15s |
Light range | 12.4 |
Automated | true |