Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse, Maritime navigation lighthouse on Kojima Island, Hokkaido, Japan
Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse is a white octagonal concrete structure that rises 24 meters above sea level and sends three white flashes every 30 seconds. The tower stands on an island roughly 25 kilometers southwest of Matsumae city, serving maritime navigation in Japan's northern waters.
The Japanese Coast Guard built this lighthouse in 1923 to help vessels navigate the challenging northern waters. Its construction marked an important step in modernizing Japan's maritime safety infrastructure.
The lighthouse embodies early 20th century Japanese maritime architecture, showing how function and regional building traditions come together in a single structure. Visitors can observe how practical needs shaped the design choices visible in this construction.
Access to the island requires special transportation such as boats or helicopters, as it sits far from the mainland. Check transportation options in advance and be prepared for changing maritime conditions.
The facility was upgraded in 2001 with solar panels that work alongside the original equipment to keep navigation signals operating. This blend of old and new technology happens in one of Japan's most remote lighthouse locations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
