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Mikomotoshima Lighthouse

Fl (2) W 16s🇯🇵Honshu-South Coast, JPOperational

Location & Light Range

About Mikomotoshima Lighthouse

Constructed in 1871, this lighthouse stands on Mikomotojima, a small uninhabited islet south of Shimoda port. The tower measures 23.31 meters in height, with its light positioned 51 meters above sea level. It emits two white flashes every 16 seconds, visible for a geographic range of 19 nautical miles. The lighthouse is situated on Japan's Honshu-South Coast.

Why it matters: The site was designated a Historic Site of Japan in 1937.

Background
Mikomotojima Lighthouse (神子元島灯台, Mikomotojima tōdai) is a lighthouse located on Mikomotojima, a small (0.1 km2) uninhabited islet located 11 kilometres (5.9 nmi) south of Shimoda port, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.The site was designated a National Historic Site in 1937.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) W 16s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
16s
Raw Code
Fl.(2)W. period 16s
Focal Height
51m
Light Range
19NM (35.2 km)
Geographic Range
19NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1871
Heritage Status
Historic Site of Japan

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
M6290
NGA No.
5548
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q6850076 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
23.31m

Location

City
Honshu-South Coast
Country
🇯🇵JP
Latitude
34.5754°
Longitude
138.9414°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far offshore can Mikomotoshima Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 51 meters and a nominal range of 19 nautical miles (approximately 35.2 km), Mikomotoshima is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. Lights of this range are typically used as landfall lights by vessels approaching from the open sea.
How do mariners identify Mikomotoshima Lighthouse at night?+
Mikomotoshima displays the characteristic Fl (2) W 16s — 2 white flashes every 16 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.
Which ports and harbors does Mikomotoshima Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Mikomotoshima Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Shimoda, Shizuoka at 5.6 NM to the N. Other ports served include Inatori (13 NM NNE), Matsuzaki (13.8 NM NW), Tago (16.5 NM NNW), Toshima/Tokyo (16.5 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Mikomotoshima Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Mikomotoshima 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 Mikomotoshima Lighthouse?+
Mikomotoshima 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 Mikomotoshima Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Mikomotoshima 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.