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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

Details

NameRokkosaki Lighthouse
CitySuzu
CountryJapan
Coordinates37.5289408, 137.3264701
Year of construction1903
Historic significanceimportant maritime aid for navigation and historic landmark
Storiesmilestone in Japan's efforts to develop its ports and improve maritime safety
Architectural styletraditional Japanese and Western influences
Construction materialstone and brick
Focal height20
Tower height24
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsautomation in the mid-20th century
Access descriptionby car, footpath
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast
View descriptionstunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Sea of Japan
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Nearby attractionsJapan Lighthouse Association
Light characteristicFl (3) W.15s
Light range12.4
Automatedtrue