Omaesaki Lighthouse

Omaesaki Lighthouse is a white brick tower on Cape Omae, a rocky headland in Shizuoka Prefecture. The cylindrical structure stands about 22 meters tall with a balcony and lantern room at its top, offering views across the Pacific Ocean.

The lighthouse was built in 1874 by British engineer Richard Henry Brunton and became the first Japanese structure to use a Fresnel lens system. This technology greatly improved maritime safety along the coast.

The lighthouse holds a position among the 50 Lighthouses of Japan list and represents a vital component of the Heritage of Industrial Modernization collection.

You can climb the tower on most days and enjoy views from the observation area at the top. The area is easy to walk around, with parking nearby and clear pathways leading up to the entrance.

The structure has a double cylindrical design built inside to protect against earthquakes. This engineering approach was an early Japanese solution for making lighthouse towers safer during seismic events.

Location: Omaezaki

Inception: 1874

Architects: Richard Henry Brunton

Height: 22.47 m

Made from material: brick

Part of: Heritage of Industrial Modernization, 50 Lighthouses in Japan

GPS coordinates: 34.59583,138.22571

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55