Cape D'Aguilar Lighthouse, Protected lighthouse at Cape D'Aguilar, Hong Kong.
Cape D'Aguilar Lighthouse is a cylindrical stone tower on Hong Kong Island's southeastern coast, standing 9.7 meters tall with a white exterior and distinctive iron door. The structure sits 60 meters above sea level and features an automated light system that sends signals across the ocean for miles.
This structure was built in 1875 as Hong Kong's first lighthouse and served as the primary navigation aid for ships in the region. Its role changed in 1896 when Waglan Island Lighthouse took over the main maritime navigation duties, leaving this tower to fade from active service.
The structure represents one of Hong Kong's oldest navigation landmarks and reflects the region's maritime heritage from the colonial era. Walking around it today, you can sense the connection between this solitary tower and the shipping activity that once depended on its light.
The site sits on a remote headland with wide ocean views, and visiting on clear days makes the experience more rewarding. Plan for a pleasant walk as access is on foot, and sturdy shoes are recommended for the terrain.
The original Fresnel lens from this tower was moved to Green Island Lighthouse in 1905 to upgrade its older lighting system. This transfer shows how equipment was reused and improved across the region's navigation network.
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