Hatsu Ko Lighthouse

With a focal height of 14 meters and a nominal range of 5 nautical miles (approximately 9.3 km), Hatsu Ko is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. As a shorter-range light, it primarily serves nearshore and coastal traffic.

Hatsu Ko displays the characteristic Fl R 3s — 1 red flash every 3 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.

Hatsu Ko Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Ashiya, Fukuoka at 4.5 NM to the E. Other ports served include Hibikishinko (10.8 NM ENE), Yawata/Kitakyushu (11.8 NM E), Wakamatsu/Kitakyushu (12.1 NM E), Kurosaki (12.5 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.

Yes, Hatsu Ko Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.

Hatsu Ko Lighthouse is located within the Japan / Korea shipping lane — a busy shipping corridor linking the major ports of Japan and South Korea. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.

You can track vessels near Hatsu Ko Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.