Wadamisaki Lighthouse

Wadamisaki Lighthouse is a hexagonal iron structure with three levels and an original Fresnel lens in its lantern chamber, located within Suma Seaside Park. The building is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property and exemplifies 19th century maritime engineering.

This lighthouse was built in 1884 as a replacement for an earlier wooden version from 1871, fulfilling Japan's obligations under an international treaty with Britain. The shift to iron construction reflected the technological advances available at that time for coastal maritime infrastructure.

The lighthouse has served as a landmark in the local landscape for generations and remains connected to the maritime identity of the coastal area. It represents how the region once relied on navigation aids to sustain its sea trade.

The lighthouse stands within a seaside park, making it accessible from nearby train stations and easy to reach on foot. Plan to spend time exploring the surrounding park area as it complements the visit to the structure itself.

The lighthouse still contains its original British-made Fresnel lens from the 1870s, making it a rare example of preserved 19th century optical technology. This piece of equipment showcases the engineering sophistication that went into coastal navigation systems of that era.

Location: Suma-ku

Inception: 1884

Architects: Ishibashi Ayahiko

Website: https://kobesuma-seaside-park.jp/suma-aiueo/ri

GPS coordinates: 34.64320,135.12232

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:02