Shiretokomisaki lighthouse, Navigational lighthouse in Shari, Japan.
Shiretokomisaki lighthouse is a white navigation structure perched on a cliff at the northern tip of the Shiretoko Peninsula overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk. The facility includes the tower itself and supporting buildings necessary for its maritime operations.
The Coast Guard established this navigation structure in 1963 to improve vessel safety along Hokkaido's northern waters. Construction was needed because the region experiences unpredictable weather and challenging ocean currents that pose navigation hazards.
The name comes from the Ainu language and means 'land at the end of the earth', reflecting the indigenous roots of the region. Local geography and place names throughout the peninsula preserve these linguistic ties to the Ainu people who inhabited the area for centuries.
The location offers sweeping views of the coastline and open sea, especially on clear days when visibility stretches far out to the horizon. Visitors should prepare for windy conditions and wear sturdy shoes, as paths to the viewing areas can be steep and occasionally slippery.
The lighthouse sits at the boundary of Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wild ecosystems and rare wildlife. Visiting the tower provides a natural jumping-off point for exploring this protected natural region.
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