Joyato Stone Lighthouse: Tomonoura's Enduring Beacon

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Iconic 19th-century lighthouse in Tomonoura, offering a glimpse into Japan's maritime past and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.

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Joyato Stone Lighthouse

The Joyato Stone Lighthouse, built in 1859, stands as a symbol of Tomonoura's rich maritime history. This iconic landmark, one of the tallest Edo-period lighthouses in Japan, offers visitors a glimpse into the past and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.

A brief summary to Joyato Stone Lighthouse

843-1 Tomocho, Fukuyama, Tomo Tomocho, Hiroshima, 720-0201, JP
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Monday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Friday 8:30 am-5:15 pm

Local tips

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Explore the surrounding historic streets and buildings from the Meiji era.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Irohamaru Museum or Fukuzenji Temple.

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Getting There

Walking

The Joyato Stone Lighthouse is located in the heart of Tomonoura's fishing village and is easily accessible on foot. From the Tomonoura bus stop, walk south towards the harbor. The lighthouse is a short walk from most points in the town center. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. The lighthouse is located near the Irohamaru Museum.
Public Transport

From Fukuyama Station, take a bus bound for Tomo Port (鞆港). The bus ride takes approximately 30-35 minutes and costs 580-620 yen. Get off at the Tomonoura (鞆の浦) bus stop, which is next to the visitor center, or the Tomo Port bus stop. From either bus stop, the lighthouse is a short walk away.
Ferry

From Tomonoura Port, you can take a ferry to Sensuijima Island. The Heisei Iroha Maru ferry is styled as a mock 19th-century steamship. A round-trip ticket to Sensuijima Island costs 550 yen. From Sensuijima Island, you can view the lighthouse from across the bay.

Discover more about Joyato Stone Lighthouse

The Joyato Stone Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of Tomonoura, a historic port town in Hiroshima Prefecture. Built in 1859 during the Edo period, this elegant stone lighthouse stands at a height of 11 meters and is one of the tallest of its kind remaining in Japan. It served as a crucial navigational aid for merchant vessels and fishing boats entering Tomonoura's harbor.Located in the heart of the fishing village, the lighthouse provides an essential photo opportunity and a glimpse into history. The buildings near the structure are from the Meiji era and are well-preserved. The lighthouse is a reminder of Tomonoura's former prosperity as a hub of maritime trade and cultural exchange.Today, the Joyato Lighthouse is a picturesque viewpoint beloved by photographers and travelers alike. Whether visited at sunrise or sunset, the lighthouse offers a serene and memorable glimpse into the enduring spirit of Tomonoura. The lighthouse is one of five elements of a Japanese port from the 1800s that can still be seen in Tomonoura.