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Sugashima Lighthouse

Fl W 4s🇯🇵Honshu-South Coast, JPOperational

Location & Light Range

About Sugashima Lighthouse

Constructed in 1873, the Sugashima Lighthouse stands on its namesake island, marking the entrance to Ise Bay. This white, round masonry tower reaches a height of 36 meters, with its light positioned 55 meters above sea level. The lighthouse emits a single white flash every 4 seconds, visible for a geographic range of 7 nautical miles. Its construction material is masonry, contributing to its enduring presence. The structure has been operational since its initial lighting in 1873.

Why it matters: The Sugashima Lighthouse is a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. It is situated within the boundaries of Ise-Shima National Park.

Background
Sugashima Lighthouse (菅島灯台, Sugashima tōdai) is a lighthouse located on the island of Sugashima, in Ise Bay off the shores of the city of Toba, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is located within the borders of the Ise-Shima National Park.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 4s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
4s
Raw Code
Fl.W. period 4s
Focal Height
55m
Light Range
7NM (13.0 km)
Geographic Range
7NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1873
Heritage Status
Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
M6048
NGA No.
6328
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q7635061 →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
36m
Tower Shape
round
Tower Color
white
Material
masonry

Structure: White round masonry tower; 36

Location

City
Honshu-South Coast
Country
🇯🇵JP
Latitude
34.4998°
Longitude
136.9086°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far offshore can Sugashima Lighthouse be seen?+
With a focal height of 55 meters and a nominal range of 7 nautical miles (approximately 13.0 km), Sugashima is visible from well offshore under standard atmospheric conditions. Actual visibility depends on observer height, weather, and sea state. As a shorter-range light, it primarily serves nearshore and coastal traffic.
How do mariners identify Sugashima Lighthouse at night?+
Sugashima displays the characteristic Fl W 4s — 1 white flash every 4 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 Sugashima Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Sugashima Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Suga at 0.5 NM to the W. Other ports served include Toba (3.2 NM WSW), Matoya (8.2 NM S), Toyohama, Aichi (12.4 NM N), Morozaki (12.5 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Sugashima Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Sugashima 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 Sugashima Lighthouse?+
Sugashima 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 Sugashima Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Sugashima 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.