Kannonzaki Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

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.