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Kannonzaki Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Explore Japan's first Western-style lighthouse at Kannonzaki, offering stunning Tokyo Bay views and a journey through maritime history.

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Kannonzaki Lighthouse, Japan's first Western-style lighthouse, stands proudly in Yokosuka, offering panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and a glimpse into maritime history. Rebuilt after earthquake damage, it remains a vital navigational aid and a scenic attraction within Kannonzaki Park.

A brief summary to Kannonzaki Lighthouse

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours, as they vary depending on the season. Weekends and holidays have extended hours.
  • Admission is 300 yen for adults. Prepare cash for the entry fee.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the lighthouse stairs and exploring the park's walking trails.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Yokosuka Museum of Art or Kannonzaki Park for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Yokosuka Station, 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 about a 10-15 minute walk to the lighthouse along the coastal path. A one-way bus fare is approximately 300-400 yen. Consider purchasing the Yokosuka Enjoy Ticket for unlimited rides on the Keikyu Line and buses in the area.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Kannonzaki Park, follow the signs towards the lighthouse. The walk from the Kannonzaki bus stop or nearby parking areas takes about 10-15 minutes along a scenic coastal path. The path is generally flat and paved, with a moderate climb up steps towards the lighthouse. There is no cost for walking.

  • Car

    From Yokosuka, follow Route 134 southwest towards Kannonzaki. Continue for about 15 km until you reach the Kannonzaki area. Look for signs directing you to Kannonzaki Lighthouse. Parking is available near the lighthouse for around 500 yen. There are four parking lots around the park area with a total of 279 spaces. Note that parking may be limited during peak seasons.

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Discover more about Kannonzaki Lighthouse

Kannonzaki Lighthouse, located in Kannonzaki Park on the Miura Peninsula, holds the distinction of being Japan's first Western-style lighthouse. Designed by French engineer François Léonce Verny, construction began in 1868, and it was first lit in 1869. The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships entering and leaving Tokyo Bay, marking a significant step in Japan's modernization. The original brick structure was destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1922 and subsequently rebuilt in reinforced concrete in 1925. The current lighthouse is the third generation and continues to serve as an active navigational beacon. Visitors can explore a small museum displaying historical artifacts and maps related to the lighthouse. A climb up the narrow, winding stairs leads to an observation platform that provides stunning views of Tokyo Bay, the Boso Peninsula, and the surrounding coastline. Kannonzaki itself is steeped in history and natural beauty. The area served as a naval fortress, and remnants of old batteries and tunnels can still be found. Today, Kannonzaki Park offers walking trails, beaches, and the Yokosuka Museum of Art, making it a popular destination for recreation and sightseeing. The lighthouse also gained cinematographic fame as the location where Godzilla made his first landfall in the 1960 film.

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