Kannonzaki Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

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Explore Japan's first Western-style lighthouse in Yokosuka, offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay and a glimpse into maritime history.

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Kannonzaki Lighthouse

Kannonzaki Lighthouse, Japan's first Western-style lighthouse, stands proudly in Kannonzaki Park, Yokosuka. It offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay and houses a small museum showcasing its history. Rebuilt after earthquake damage, it remains a vital navigational aid and a symbol of Japan's modernization.

A brief summary to Kannonzaki Lighthouse

4 Chome-1187 Kamoi, Yokosuka, 4 Chome Kamoi, Kanagawa, 239-0813, JP
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Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the lighthouse may close during severe weather.
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the lighthouse stairs and exploring Kannonzaki Park.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Tokyo Bay from the lighthouse observation deck.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Yokosuka Museum of Art or Kannonzaki Nature Museum for a full day of sightseeing.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Yokosuka Station (either JR or Keikyu line), take the Keikyu Bus (Route 13) towards Kannonzaki. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Kannonzaki bus stop. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk along the coastal path to the lighthouse. A one-way bus fare costs around ¥330. Be sure to check the bus schedule for the return trip.
Walking

If you are already in Kannonzaki Park, follow the coastal path towards the lighthouse. The walk from the Keikyu Kannonzaki Hotel or Yokosuka Museum of Art takes about 10-15 minutes. The path is scenic and relatively flat.
Car

From Route 134, follow the signs to Kannonzaki. There are four parking lots available around Kannonzaki Park with a total of 279 spaces. Parking fees are approximately ¥500 per day.

Discover more about Kannonzaki Lighthouse

Perched on Cape Kannon at the easternmost point of the Miura Peninsula, the Kannonzaki Lighthouse holds the distinction of being Japan's first Western-style lighthouse. Its story began in 1868, following the Anglo-Japanese Treaty of Amity and Commerce, which called for improved navigational aids as Japan opened its ports to foreign trade. Designed by French engineer François Léonce Verny, the original structure was lit in 1869, constructed with bricks from the Yokosuka Iron Works. Unfortunately, the original brick structure succumbed to earthquake damage in 1922. Rebuilt in reinforced concrete in 1923, it faced further destruction from the Great Kanto Earthquake later that year. The current lighthouse, the third iteration, was completed in 1925 and continues to guide ships safely through the busy Uraga Channel. Today, visitors can explore the lighthouse and its small museum, which displays historical artifacts and maps. Climbing the narrow, corkscrew stairs rewards you with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, where you can observe the constant flow of maritime traffic. The surrounding Kannonzaki Park offers walking trails, beaches, and other attractions, making it a perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.