Tobaseshima Lighthouse

With a focal height of 33 meters and a nominal range of 7 nautical miles (approximately 13.0 km), Tobaseshima 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.

Tobaseshima 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.

Tobaseshima Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Aizu, Kumamoto at 1.8 NM to the NW. Other ports served include Akasaki, Kumamoto (1.8 NM NW), Fukuura, Kumamoto (1.8 NM NW), Kawachi, Kumamoto (1.8 NM NW), Kodomari, Kumamoto (1.8 NM NW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.

Yes, Tobaseshima 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.

Tobaseshima 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.

You can track vessels near Tobaseshima 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.