Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse

The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse is situated on Shiretoko Cape, located in Shari Town, Shari County, Okhotsk Subprefecture, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse is accessible by road via the Shiretoko Peninsula, which can be reached by car or bus from nearby towns.

The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse was constructed in 1932 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners traversing the treacherous waters of the Sea of Okhotsk.

History

• The lighthouse played a crucial role in facilitating safe passage through this region, particularly during World War II when it served as an important communication point between Japanese naval vessels.

The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse is a 25-meter-tall (82-foot) tower constructed from reinforced concrete and features a distinctive octagonal shape.

Light Characteristics

• The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light is powered by an electric generator and is operated by the Japan Coast Guard.

Current Status

• The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction.
• However, due to its remote location, the lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid, and its role has largely been replaced by modern electronic navigation systems.

The Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2001, recognizing its importance as a cultural and historical landmark.

Heritage Status

• The lighthouse's designation also acknowledges the significance of the surrounding Shiretoko Peninsula, which is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

During World War II, the Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse played a crucial role in facilitating communication between Japanese naval vessels operating in the Sea of Okhotsk.

Tower Height and Focal Height

• The tower height of the Shiretoko Cape Lighthouse is 25 meters (82 feet), while its focal height is approximately 30 meters (98 feet).