Shimane

Historical legacies

Hinomisaki Lighthouse

The Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse: The Tallest Lighthouse in Japan

〜A local symbol equal to Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine〜

Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is located about 10 km northwest of the world heritage listed Izumo Taisha, on the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula. After planning commenced at the request of residents, it took three years to complete in 1903.

This lighthouse has external walls made of stone and internal walls made of brick that are connected with crossbeams, which is a rare construction technique. The lighthouse was designed by the Japanese engineer Ayahiko Ishibashi. The height of 44 m makes it the tallest lighthouse tower in Japan and it is included in the IALA list of 100 lighthouses as historic and architectural monuments.

Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is operated by Tokokai in order to provide education about navigation marks, and guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the top of the lighthouse. If you climb the lighthouse, you can see the Sea of Japan right in front of you and the ria coast to either side. You can learn about the history of the lighthouse, etc., at the attached museum.

We hope you enjoy your trip to the Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse.

Information

Map
Information
Location:   Izumo, Shimane
Date of first operation: April 1, 1903
Type of illumination:   Combined groups of alternating white and red flashes of light (two flashes of white light and one flash of red light every 20 seconds)
Lighting distance:  21 nautical miles (38.9 km)
Height:    44 m (from ground to top of building)
Visiting hours
9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Management Office
Sakai Coast Guard Office
9-1 Showamachi, Sakaiminato, Tottori
TEL: 0859-42-2532
Contact
Tokokai, Izumo Hinomisaki Branch
TEL: 0853-54-5341
HP: https://www.tokokai.org/tourlight/