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Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse

Fl (3) White 30s🇯🇵Matsumae, JPOperational

Location & Light Range

About Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse

Also known as: Matsumae Koshima (Matsumae Kojima)

The Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse, built in 1923, stands on an uninhabited volcanic island in the Sea of Japan, approximately 25 kilometers west-southwest of Matsumae. This octagonal concrete tower, standing 24 meters tall, is situated at the northeastern tip of Matsumae Kojima, adjacent to a harbor of refuge for fishermen. Its light sweeps 17.6 nautical miles and emits a single white flash every 30 seconds. In 2001, the lighthouse was equipped with an experimental hybrid power system that integrated solar, wind, and wave energy. Some components of this system were partially decommissioned in 2010, with the light now primarily powered by solar energy.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for guiding fishing vessels to the harbor of refuge on Matsumae Kojima, a critical safe haven in the Sea of Japan. Its location on a protected wildlife preserve also highlights its role in marking a point within a significant marine ecosystem.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) White 30s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
30s
Raw Code
Fl W 30s
Focal Height
43m
Geographic Range
17.6NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1923

Significant events: Equipped with experimental hybrid power system (2001), hybrid system partially decommissioned (2010)

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Shizuura(11.8 km)
ARLHS No.
JPN-334

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
24m
Tower Shape
octagonal
Tower Color
white
Material
concrete

Structure: octagonal concrete tower with lantern and gallery

Location

City
Matsumae
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Region
Hokkaido Prefecture
Sea Region
Located on Matsumae Kojima, an uninhabited volcanic island in the Sea of Japan, approximately 25 km west southwest of Matsumae. It marks the northeastern point of the island, adjacent to a harbor of refuge for fishermen.
Latitude
41.3637°
Longitude
139.8150°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse at night?+
Matsumae Koshima displays the characteristic Fl (3) White 30s — 3 white flashes every 30 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 white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Shizuura at 11.8 NM to the NE. Other ports served include Matsumae (12.9 NM ENE), Fukushima (hokkaido) (21.1 NM ENE), Fukushima, Hokkaido (21.2 NM ENE), Kodomari, Aomori (25.8 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Matsumae Koshima 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 Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse?+
Matsumae Koshima 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 Matsumae Koshima Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Matsumae Koshima 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.