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Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse

🇯🇵Hirao, JPOperational

Also known as: Hiraosaga

Hirao Saga Kō functions as an active light at the entrance to Hirao Saga Port in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. With a focal height of 12 meters, its light offers a geographic range of 11 nautical miles. The lighthouse site is accessible to the public, allowing visitors to explore the grounds, though the tower itself is not open for climbing. This aid to navigation has been a consistent presence, guiding vessels safely into the harbor. The surrounding area reflects a mix of port operations and natural coastal features.

Why it matters: Hirao Saga Kō is essential for safe navigation into Hirao Saga Port, a significant maritime access point that supports both local fishing fleets and commercial shipping.

Focal Height
12m
Geographic Range
11NM
City
Hirao
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Region
Yamaguchi Prefecture
Sea Region
Hirao Saga Port
Latitude
33.8928°
Longitude
132.0788°
Nearest Port
Hirao(1.5 km)
Admiralty No.
M5408.5
NGA No.
9468
ARLHS No.
JPN-1618

Structure: Hirao Saga Kō, an active light, marks the entrance to the bustling Hirao Saga Port, a significant maritime hub along Japan's coast. While the specific details of its origins and early years are not readily available, its enduring presence speaks to its continuous role in guiding ships safely to shore. Positioned with a focal plane of 12 meters, the light helps mariners navigate the intricate coastal waters, ensuring safe passage for both local fishing fleets and larger vessels approaching the harbor. The surrounding landscape likely features the typical blend of industrial port activity and natural coastal beauty, characteristic of many Japanese harbors. Today, the lighthouse site is open to the public, inviting visitors to stroll the grounds and observe the active aid to navigation. Although the tower itself remains closed for ascents, the opportunity to witness a working lighthouse in its natural setting offers a unique glimpse into the maritime life of the region. It continues its quiet vigil, a constant presence for those who depend on the sea.

Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Which ports and harbors does Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Yanai at 4.3 NM to the NE. Other ports served include Hirao (4.4 NM NE), Hikari (8.4 NM WNW), Kuka (9.7 NM ENE), Tsuzu Yamaguchi (11.2 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Hirao Saga Kō 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.
What shipping routes pass near Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse?+
Hirao Saga Kō 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.
How can I track vessels near Hirao Saga Kō Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Hirao Saga Kō 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.