Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse: Guardian of the Sea of Japan
Climb Japan's tallest stone lighthouse for panoramic ocean views. Explore history and nature at this iconic Shimane Peninsula landmark.
Rising from the rugged cliffs of the Shimane Peninsula, the Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse stands as a beacon of history and natural beauty. Completed in 1903, this lighthouse is not only the tallest stone lighthouse in Japan, standing at 43.65 meters, but also one of the most historically significant, earning a place among the top 100 historic lighthouses in the world. The lighthouse was built in response to increased trade with foreign countries. Designed by Japanese engineer Ayahiko Ishibashi, the lighthouse boasts a unique construction technique, featuring stone external walls and brick internal walls connected with crossbeams. The stone was sourced from the mountains of Mihonoseki, Matsue City. Visitors can ascend the 163-step spiral staircase to the observation deck for breathtaking 360-degree views. From this vantage point, you can see the Sea of Japan, the ria coast, and on clear days, the Oki Islands to the north and the Chugoku Mountains to the south. A small, free museum at the base of the lighthouse displays the history and structure of lighthouses. The area surrounding the lighthouse offers more to explore. The nearby Hinomisaki Shrine, with its vivid vermilion buildings, provides a striking contrast against the natural landscape. The coastline features unique geological formations, including columnar jointing created by past volcanic activity. Fumishima Island, a short distance from the coast, is a breeding ground for black-tailed gulls.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the 163 steps to the top of the lighthouse.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the observation deck can be windy.
- Visit during sunset for stunning views of the sun setting over the Sea of Japan.
- Explore the nearby Hinomisaki Shrine and the unique coastal rock formations.
- Allow ample time to explore the museum and surrounding natural landscape.
A brief summary to Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse
- 1478 Taishacho Hinomisaki, Izumo, 1478 Taishacho Hinomisaki, Shimane, 699-0763, JP
- +81853-54-5341
Getting There
-
Public Transport
The most common way to reach Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is by taking the Ichibata Bus from either JR Izumoshi Station or Izumo Taisha Mae Station. From JR Izumoshi Station, the bus ride takes approximately 45-60 minutes to the Hinomisaki Todai (Lighthouse) bus stop. The fare is around ¥860. From Izumo Taisha Mae Station, the bus ride is about 20-35 minutes to the same Hinomisaki Todai bus stop. Once you arrive at the Hinomisaki Todai bus stop, the lighthouse is a short walk away.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available from JR Izumoshi Station and Izumo Taisha. A taxi from Izumo Taisha to the lighthouse will cost approximately ¥3,000-¥4,000 and take around 20 minutes. From JR Izumoshi Station, the taxi ride will be longer and more expensive.
