Kanze Lighthouse

The Kanze Lighthouse is situated on the Nagisa lava trail in Kagoshima, Japan.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners traversing the coastline of Kyushu.

History

The construction began in 1887 and was completed in 1891.

Architecture

• The Kanze Lighthouse features a distinctive cylindrical tower with a square base.
• The tower stands at a height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, while its focal height is around 40 meters (131 feet).
• The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of traditional Japanese designs, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Light Characteristics

• The Kanze Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles.
• The light pattern is reported to be a steady flash every three seconds.

Current Status

The Kanze Lighthouse is currently an automated aid to navigation, no longer manned by a keeper.

Heritage Status

• The Kanze Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Site of Japan in 2004, acknowledging its significance in the country's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the lighthouse played an important role in guiding Allied forces through the waters surrounding Kyushu.
• After the war, the lighthouse underwent significant repairs and renovations to ensure its continued operation as a navigational aid.

Architecture

• The Kanze Lighthouse features a distinctive cylindrical tower with a square base.
• The tower stands at a height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, while its focal height is around 40 meters (131 feet).
• The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of traditional Japanese designs, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.