Get the MarineRadar appSatellite AISSatellite live trackingTrack any shipLive alerts112,000+ ships trackedDownload free

Suma Lighthouse

F white 12s🇯🇵Kobe, JPOperational

Location & Light Range

About Suma Lighthouse

Also known as: #Suma (Outer Suma Tower)

The Suma observation building was a 19-meter cylindrical structure situated in Suma, a ward on the west side of Kōbe. It was supported by pilings and integrated into a complex of public fishing piers. The building served as a visual landmark along the coastline. Its operational status and specific light characteristics are not detailed in the narrative, but it was removed between 2023 and 2024 along with most of the supporting pier.

Why it matters: This structure was notable for its integration into a public fishing pier complex, functioning as a coastal marker rather than a traditional lighthouse. Its removal represents a significant alteration to the local Suma waterfront.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
F white 12s
Flash Type
Fixed
Light Color
white
Interval
12s
Raw Code
F.W.R.G. 30
Focal Height
34m
Geographic Range
1NM

Construction & History

Significant events: Removed in 2023-24

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Iwaya(4.9 km)
Admiralty No.
M5842.4
NGA No.
7496

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
19m
Tower Shape
cylindrical

Structure: round observation building supported by pilings

Location

City
Kobe
Country
🇯🇵Japan
Region
Hyogo Prefecture
Sea Region
Suma, a ward on the west side of Kōbe
Latitude
34.6343°
Longitude
135.1045°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
Live tracking · 50,000+ mariners

Find Suma Lighthouse on the live nautical map

Plan voyages near Japan, see nearby vessels in real time, and explore 14,900+ navigation aids in the app.

Nautical mapNearby vesselsVoyage planning
Get the App

Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Suma Lighthouse at night?+
Suma displays the characteristic F white 12s. 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 Suma Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Suma Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Kobe at 4.3 NM to the NE. Other ports served include Iwaya (5 NM WSW), Akashi (5.7 NM W), Eigashima (9.8 NM WNW), Higashiharima (14 NM WNW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Suma Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Suma 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 Suma Lighthouse?+
Suma 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 Suma Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Suma 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.