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Otao Kō Lighthouse

Fl Green 3s🇯🇵Amakusa, JPOperational

Also known as: Shinwa

Otao (Shinwa) Kō Lighthouse, erected in 1987, is a white mast structure. It displays a green light with a flash characteristic of Fl G 3s, visible for 11 nautical miles. The light's focal height is 12 meters above sea level. Located within the active port of Otao (Shinwa) in Amakusa, Kumamoto Prefecture, this navigation aid marks the harbor entrance and its surrounding waters, accommodating diverse maritime traffic.

Why it matters: This light provides necessary guidance for all vessels navigating into and out of Otao (Shinwa) Kō, especially during periods of reduced visibility or darkness. It supports the local fishing fleet and commercial shipping, contributing to the area's economic activities.

Characteristic Signature
Fl Green 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Green
Interval
3s
Raw Code
Fl G 3s
Focal Height
12m
Geographic Range
11NM
Year Built
1987
Nearest Port
Omiyaji(2.0 km)
Admiralty No.
M5129.4
NGA No.
11404
ARLHS No.
JPN-2105
Tower Shape
mast
Tower Color
white

Structure: Otao (Shinwa) Kō Lighthouse, established in 1987, is a relatively modern aid to navigation situated within the bustling port of Otao (Shinwa) in Japan. Its green light, flashing every three seconds, cuts through the night, providing a clear reference point for mariners. The surrounding landscape is typical of a working port, with docks, warehouses, and the constant movement of ships and cargo. This light was built to enhance safety and efficiency for the diverse maritime traffic that utilizes the port, from local fishing boats returning with their daily catch to larger commercial vessels transporting goods. It has consistently served its purpose since its inception, ensuring smooth operations for all who depend on the port's waters. As an active light, it continues its daily vigil, an integral part of the port's infrastructure, though it is not typically a tourist destination.

City
Amakusa
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Region
Kumamoto Prefecture
Sea Region
Located at Otao (Shinwa) Kō, a port in Japan, this light guides vessels navigating the harbor entrance and its immediate approaches.
Latitude
32.3558°
Longitude
130.2112°
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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How do mariners identify Otao Kō Lighthouse at night?+
Otao Kō displays the characteristic Fl Green 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 green color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Otao Kō Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Otao Kō Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Amatsuke at 1.6 NM to the NNE. Other ports served include Katasoba (4.7 NM S), Kamihira (5.7 NM SW), Hondo (6 NM N), Kuzu (6 NM SSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Otao Kō Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Otao 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 Otao Kō Lighthouse?+
Otao 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 Otao Kō Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Otao 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.