Name and Location

The Tawaragaura Lighthouse is located in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan.

Construction and History

Built in the late 19th century, the lighthouse has been guiding mariners since its construction. It played a crucial role in Japan's maritime history during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an elevation of approximately 27 meters (89 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of about 45 meters (148 feet). Its architectural style is characterized by a cylindrical shape with a white-painted tower, capped with a distinctive red lantern room. The structure's foundation is made of concrete, providing stability against strong winds and earthquakes.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features a Fl(3)W.15s light characteristic, which means it emits a flashing white light every 15 seconds, with a range of approximately 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers). This design allows the beacon to be visible from a considerable distance, serving as a vital aid to navigation for vessels in the area.

Accessibility and Visiting

Although the lighthouse is no longer fully operational, it remains an important historical landmark. Visitors can access the site through a nearby walking trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastal landscape. The lighthouse itself is not open to the public due to concerns about visitor safety and preservation.

Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors to the site can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding coastal landscape.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore are available for this lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was constructed using local limestone and granite, with a wooden first-order Fresnel lens serving as its primary light source. The structure's foundation is made of concrete, providing stability against strong winds and earthquakes.

Further Information

For further information on the Tawaragaura Lighthouse and its significance in Japan's lighthouse history, please consult the following resources: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT), Nagasaki Prefectural Government, Japanese Lighthouse Society.