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Kataura Kō Lighthouse

Fl White 3s🇯🇵Minamisatsuma, JPOperational

Location & Light Range

About Kataura Kō Lighthouse

Established in 1932, this square white concrete tower stands 9 meters tall. Its light emits a single white flash every 3 seconds, visible for 10.7 nautical miles. The lighthouse was originally situated at the end of the west breakwater. However, due to an extension of this breakwater, the light was moved to a new position further into the bay. The tower is accessible via a pier, though entry into the structure itself is not permitted.

Why it matters: The relocation of this lighthouse was necessitated by the significant extension of the west breakwater, ensuring continued safe navigation into Kataura Kō.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl W 3s
Focal Height
11m
Geographic Range
10.7NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1932

Significant events: relocated due to breakwater extension

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
9m
Tower Shape
square
Tower Color
white
Material
concrete

Structure: square white concrete tower

Location

City
Minamisatsuma
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Region
Kagoshima Prefecture
Sea Region
Kataura Kō, formerly at the end of the west breakwater, now further into the bay due to breakwater extension.
Latitude
31.4217°
Longitude
130.1834°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Makurazaki(11.1 km)
Admiralty No.
M5084
NGA No.
11080
ARLHS No.
JPN-2049
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Kataura Kō Lighthouse at night?+
Kataura Kō displays the characteristic Fl White 3s. 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 white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Kataura Kō Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Kataura Kō Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Nomaike at 2.6 NM to the W. Other ports served include Hirasaki (4.7 NM SSE), Taniyama (10.8 NM SE), Makurazaki (11 NM SSE), Nishishioya (13.9 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Kataura Kō Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Kataura 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 Kataura Kō Lighthouse?+
Kataura 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 Kataura Kō Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Kataura 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.