Guida
Tsunoshima Lighthouse is a majestic stone structure located at Yume-gasaki, the northwestern tip of Tsunoshima Island in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture. First lit on March 1, 1876, it was the first large-scale Western-style lighthouse on the Sea of Japan side. The structure is notable for being one of the few unpainted granite-built lighthouses in Japan. Due to its immense historical and architectural value, the lighthouse, the former official residence, and the former warehouse were designated as National Important Cultural Properties in 2020. The site is well-maintained as the 'Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park' within the Kitachimon National Park.
The lighthouse was designed by the British engineer Richard Henry Brunton, known as the 'Father of Japanese Lighthouses.' Despite being built on a low-lying area only 19 meters above sea level, the tower stands a commanding 30 meters tall thanks to advanced historical engineering. The interior features a robust design with 105 steps of a spiral staircase integrated into the walls. The heart of the lighthouse is its first-order Fresnel lens, designed by the British company Stevenson in 1874 and manufactured by the French company Barbier. This precious cultural heritage remains in active service today.
The biggest draw is the 'Observation Lighthouse,' which allows visitors to climb inside. Navigating the 105-step spiral staircase to reach the top offers a profound sense of history. The precision of the active first-order Fresnel lens, a rare eight-sided flashing type, is a sight to behold. Additionally, the 'Lighthouse Memorial Museum,' a reconstruction of the former keeper's residence, provides insight into the daily lives and history of the lighthouse keepers.
Tsunoshima Lighthouse offers beautiful scenery year-round. From March to September, visiting during bright daylight hours allows you to see the striking contrast between the deep blue Sea of Japan and the white stone lighthouse. The surrounding park also features clusters of Tamarix trees, providing seasonal natural beauty. Since the observation hours vary by season, visiting in the early afternoon is generally recommended for a smooth experience.
The primary activity is climbing the internal staircase to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. You can observe the lighthouse's structural engineering up close and learn about historical lighthouse management through the exhibits at the Lighthouse Memorial Museum. A relaxing stroll through the surrounding park is also highly recommended.
The lighthouse is adjacent to the well-maintained Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park. It is also connected to the mainland via the famous Tsunoshima Bridge (1,780m long), which opened in 2014, making it a very popular driving route. We recommend a route that explores the scenic coastline and historical architecture around the lighthouse.
To visit the interior of the lighthouse, you must climb 105 steps of a spiral staircase. Therefore, comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing are highly recommended. Please note that the admission fee of 300 JPY must be paid in cash. While there are English signs available, it is helpful to research the history in advance for a deeper understanding. As this is a National Important Cultural Property, please respect the facility and the surrounding environment.