白神岬灯台

Location and Accessibility

The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse is situated at SHIRAKAMI cape lighthouse, Shirakami, Matsumae, Matsumae County, Oshima Subprefecture, Hokkaido Prefecture, 049-1524, Japan. The town of Matsumae is accessible by car or public transportation from the nearby city of Hakodate.

History

The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse was constructed in 1932 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners approaching the Shirakami cape. The lighthouse has played a crucial role in facilitating safe passage and trade between Japan's northern islands.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of about 45 meters (148 feet). It is constructed from reinforced concrete and features a distinctive cylindrical shape. The tower is topped with a lantern room containing a first-order Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km).

Current Status

The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction. The lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid due to the development of more advanced navigation systems.

Heritage Status

The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2003 by the Japanese government, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse has played a significant role in Japan's maritime history, particularly during World War II. The lighthouse served as a key navigational aid for Japanese naval vessels operating in the region.

• Heritage Status: The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2003 by the Japanese government, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
• Notable Historical Events: The Shirakami Cape Lighthouse has played a significant role in Japan's maritime history, particularly during World War II. The lighthouse served as a key navigational aid for Japanese naval vessels operating in the region.