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Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse

Fl White 4s🇨🇳Putuo District, CNOperational

Location & Light Range

About Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse

Also known as: Pǔtúoshān (Pu-to Shan)

This 18-meter cylindrical concrete tower, painted a deep gold, stands at the southwestern tip of Pǔtúoshān island. Its lantern and gallery are situated at a focal height of 74 meters, producing a white flash every four seconds. The lighthouse became operational in 1952, with the current structure built after 1999. While visitors can access the site via a hiking trail, the tower itself is closed to the public. The nearest port, Zhoushan, is 12.7 kilometers away.

Why it matters: The Pǔtúoshān lighthouse guides vessels navigating the waters around the southwestern tip of Pǔtúoshān island. Its distinctive deep gold exterior adds visual character to its navigational purpose.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 4s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
4s
Raw Code
Fl W 4s
Focal Height
74m
Light Range
18NM (33.3 km)
Geographic Range
21.9NM

Location

City
Putuo District
Country
🇨🇳China
Region
Zhejiang
Sea Region
southwestern tip of Pǔtúoshān
Latitude
29.9683°
Longitude
122.3669°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Zhoushan(12.7 km)
Admiralty No.
P3714.148
NGA No.
18954
Wikidata
Q115046432 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
18m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
deep gold
Material
concrete

Structure: round cylindrical concrete tower with lantern and gallery

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far offshore can Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 74 meters and a nominal range of 18 nautical miles (approximately 33.3 km), Pǔtúoshān 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 Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse at night?+
Pǔtúoshān displays the characteristic Fl White 4s. 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 Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Zhoushan at 8.6 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include Majistan/Zhoushan (14.2 NM WNW), LIUHENG (18.4 NM SW), Daxie Pt (22.3 NM WSW), Beilun (25.2 NM W). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Pǔtúoshān 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.
How can I track vessels near Pǔtúoshān Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Pǔtúoshān 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.