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Lighthouse · Izumo, Shimane
Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Japan’s tallest stone lighthouse, about 44 meters high, on Cape Hinomisaki northwest of Izumo Taisha; a spiral staircase leads up to the balcony overlooking the Sea of Japan.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Hinomisaki Lighthouse in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Hinomisaki Lighthouse
The Hinomisaki Lighthouse stands on the tip of the cape of the same name, about 10 km northwest of Izumo Taisha, atop cliffs overlooking the Sea of Japan. Opened in 1903, it is built of stone faced with white brick and is about 44 meters tall, making it the tallest stone lighthouse in the country.
The lighthouse is open to visitors: a spiral staircase of more than 160 steps leads to the upper gallery, surrounded by a railing, with views of the sea, the volcanic rock cliffs and the offshore islets. A small museum at the base provides information about lighthouses and the structure’s construction.
Around the lighthouse, a cliffside trail passes viewpoints and reaches the islet of Fumishima, a natural sanctuary for black-tailed gulls that usually gather there from winter through spring. The sea below is clear, and on calm days you can see the rocks on the seabed.
About 1 km from the lighthouse is Hinomisaki Shrine, painted red, with two halls built in the 17th century; tradition presents it as the guardian of Japan’s night, since it stands at the westernmost end of old Izumo. The fishing village in the cove below has seafood restaurants and stalls selling dried squid. The cape is at the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula, and the coastal road to it passes coves and small villages with the sea always in view.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours, including the climb up the lighthouse and the cliff trail; allow more time if visiting Hinomisaki Shrine.
Best time
Near sunset, which on clear days occurs over the Sea of Japan. The lighthouse closes before sunset and during strong winds; check the hours. The gulls are usually at Fumishima from December to July.
How to get there
By bus from Izumo Taisha-mae Station, about 20 minutes, with few departures per day. By car, about 18 km from central Izumo via the coastal road.
Tip
Climb the lighthouse first, then follow the cliff trail to the Fumishima viewpoint, returning via Hinomisaki Shrine.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Can you climb the Hinomisaki Lighthouse?
Yes, by a spiral staircase of more than 160 steps up to the upper gallery. Access may be suspended in strong winds.
How tall is the Hinomisaki Lighthouse?
About 44 meters. It is the tallest stone lighthouse in Japan.
How do you reach the Hinomisaki Lighthouse by bus?
From Izumo Taisha-mae Station by bus in about 20 minutes. Departures are limited; check return times.
What is Hinomisaki Shrine?
A red shrine about 1 km from the lighthouse, with two 17th-century halls. It is a common stop on the way between the lighthouse and Izumo Taisha.
Beyond the guide
