Kanaezaki Lighthouse

Kanaezaki Lighthouse stands on the dramatic cliffs of Cape Ashizuri in Tosashimizu City, Kochi Prefecture, marking the southernmost point of Shikoku Island. Built in 1914, this historic lighthouse rises 18.3 meters tall and has guided ships through the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean for over a century. The lighthouse was constructed using reinforced concrete and represents an important piece of Japan's maritime infrastructure during the early 20th century.

The lighthouse occupies a spectacular natural setting where rugged coastal cliffs meet the vast Pacific Ocean. Cape Ashizuri is renowned for its 80-meter high granite cliffs that have been carved by wind and waves over millennia. The area forms part of the Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, designated for its outstanding coastal scenery and unique subtropical vegetation. The cape experiences the warm Kuroshio Current, creating a microclimate that supports plant species rarely found elsewhere in Japan.

Visitors can climb the lighthouse's 49 steps to reach the observation deck, which offers panoramic views across the Pacific and along the dramatic coastline. The site is particularly popular for sunrise and sunset viewing, and on clear days, visibility extends far across the ocean. The surrounding walking paths allow exploration of the cape's natural beauty, and interpretive signs explain the geological features and maritime history. Photography enthusiasts are drawn to the contrast between the white lighthouse tower and the deep blue ocean.

Kanaezaki Lighthouse is accessible by bus from Tosashimizu Station, with services taking approximately 30 minutes to reach the cape area. The journey requires a transfer from major cities like Kochi, which is about 2.5 hours away by limited express train. Visitors driving from Kochi can reach the site in approximately 2 hours via Route 56 and Route 321. Admission to the lighthouse grounds is free, though there may be a small fee to climb the tower itself.