Name and Location

The Itoshima Lighthouse is located in the town of Shimahimeshima, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, standing sentinel over the waters of the East China Sea.

Construction and History

The exact date of construction is unclear, but records suggest that the Itoshima Lighthouse was built during the Meiji period (1868-1912). The structure stands at an impressive height of 30 meters above sea level, with a focal height of 25.4 meters. The lighthouse's original purpose was to guide ships through the treacherous waters surrounding the Japanese mainland.

Architecture and Materials

The Itoshima Lighthouse is characterized by its distinctive architectural style, which blends elements of traditional Japanese design with modern functionality. Constructed from local materials such as stone and steel, the structure features a robust tower topped by a lantern room, housing the original Fresnel lens. The surrounding buildings, including the keeper's quarters and auxiliary structures, were designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment.

Light and Navigation

Although the lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation, it played a crucial role in maritime navigation for centuries, guiding ships through the treacherous waters surrounding the Japanese mainland.

Accessibility and Visiting

• The Itoshima Lighthouse has been converted into a museum dedicated to preserving maritime history and promoting cultural exchange. Visitors can enter the structure and explore its exhibits, which include artifacts and interactive displays that showcase the significance of the Itoshima Lighthouse in Japan's nautical heritage.
• The site is situated at coordinates 33° 42' 130° 43', approximately 15 kilometers from the city center of Fukuoka. Visitors can reach the site by car or bus, with ample parking available nearby.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the East China Sea, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No relevant anecdotes or folklore are currently known about the Itoshima Lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was originally equipped with an optical lens that rotated to signal the presence of ships. Although the original purpose of the lighthouse is no longer active, it remains an important cultural landmark and museum.

Further Information

• * Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). (n.d.). Important Cultural Properties. Retrieved from <https://www.bunka.go.jp/en/cultural-heritage/important-cultural-properties/>
• * Fukuoka Prefectural Government. (n.d.). Itoshima Lighthouse Museum. Retrieved from <https://www.fukuoka-prefecture.jp/en/tourism-itoshima-lighthouse-museum/>