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大王崎灯台

Route Nakiri-Kou

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大王崎灯台

The Ōmishima Lighthouse, also known as the 大王崎灯台, is a historic lighthouse located on Ōmishima Island, Shima Town, in Mie Prefecture, Japan.

History

  • Construction of the lighthouse began in 1888 and was completed in 1890.
  • The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and upgrades to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Architecture

The tower height is approximately 25 meters (82 feet), while the focal height is around 30 meters (98 feet).

The lighthouse features a distinctive octagonal shape with eight sides, designed by Japanese architect Kiyoshi Kawahara.

The structure is made of stone and concrete, with a wooden lantern room at the top.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light pattern is a rotating beam that can be seen from a distance of up to 30 nautical miles (56 kilometers).

Current Status

The 大王崎灯台 is currently an automated lighthouse, no longer manned by a keeper.

However, it remains an important navigational aid for mariners.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is located on Route Nakiri-Kou, Ōmishima Island, Shima Town, Mie Prefecture, Japan.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby parking area.

Heritage Status

The 大王崎灯台 was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2013 by the Japanese government,

recognizing its importance in the country's maritime history and cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

In 1905, the lighthouse played a significant role in the rescue of the crew of the British ship SS City of Tokyo,

which was stranded off Ōmishima Island.

The lighthouse's beam helped guide the rescue vessel to the stricken ship, saving all lives on board.

Visiting Information

The 大王崎灯台 is open to visitors and offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean and landscape,

Due to its remote location, visiting the lighthouse requires careful planning and preparation.

Details

Name大王崎灯台
CityShima
CountryJapan
Coordinates34.276154, 136.89954
ArchitectKiyoshi Kawahara
Current useactive navigation