Kannonzaki Fort Ruins
Japan's first lighthouse, a white octagonal beacon offering stunning Tokyo Bay views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear views, fewer crowds
Kannonzaki Fort Ruins
Best Time
Clear views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's first lighthouse, a white octagonal beacon offering stunning Tokyo Bay views and a glimpse into maritime history.
"Pretty and photogenic lighthouse to visit on a sunny day. Loved this little spot."
🎟️ Entry Fee
A small fee of ¥200-¥300 grants access to the lighthouse tower and its historical exhibits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the bus stop is easy, but wear comfy shoes for exploring the grounds. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kannonzaki Lighthouse
Summit of Kannonzaki
Iconic white octagonal lighthouse, Japan's first, offering panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.
Exhibition Room
Base of the lighthouse
Learn about the history of the Yokosuka coastal area through informative illustrations.
Scenic Walk
Path from bus stop
Enjoy a gentle hike with benches and resting spots offering pleasant sea views.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Entry Fee
A small fee of ¥200-¥300 grants access to the lighthouse tower and its historical exhibits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the bus stop is easy, but wear comfy shoes for exploring the grounds. [:athletic_shoe:]
📸 Photo Opportunities
The lighthouse is very photogenic, especially on a sunny day. Capture the white tower against the blue sea. [:camerawithflash:]
🧘♀️ Peaceful Escape
Ideal for a quiet day trip away from city noise, offering sea breezes and a relaxed atmosphere. [:leafy_green:]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Entry Fee
A small fee of ¥200-¥300 grants access to the lighthouse tower and its historical exhibits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The walk from the bus stop is easy, but wear comfy shoes for exploring the grounds. [:athletic_shoe:]
📸 Photo Opportunities
The lighthouse is very photogenic, especially on a sunny day. Capture the white tower against the blue sea. [:camerawithflash:]
🧘♀️ Peaceful Escape
Ideal for a quiet day trip away from city noise, offering sea breezes and a relaxed atmosphere. [:leafy_green:]
⬆️ Spiral Stairs
Be prepared for narrow, spiral stairs to the top; they can get congested when busy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kannonzaki Lighthouse for its photogenic beauty, historical significance as Japan's first lighthouse, and the rewarding panoramic views from the top. The easy walk from the bus stop and peaceful atmosphere are also frequently highlighted. However, some find the limited activities and the congested spiral stairs during peak times to be minor drawbacks.
"Visited on Dec 29, 2024
Pretty and photogenic lighthouse to visit on a sunny day. Loved this little spot. Entry is ¥300. Some illustrations and explanations of the nearby Yokosuka coastal area are provided in the exhibition room with no photos allowed. Also no souvenirs sold.
Easy walk from the Kannonzaki bus stop, path is not too steep to get there. There is a rest bench corner tucked under the stairs behind the lighthouse, away from the sun so that was very pleasant, from which you can see the 4th and 5th pic of my photos."
Andromeda T
"Kannonzaki Lighthouse is awesome! I had a very good time there! It was a very beautiful and fun area to go explore! Without doubt I strongly recommend going! Have a great day!❤️😃⚓️🌊🌲"
Jack Carello
"This is a nice light house just located in the end of the Uraga channel. It’s very important stop for shops transiting!! It is the first light house in Japan so it has great history! The light house here itself is not what build long time ago. It was rebuild while after. The tower surface is white it’s beautiful!! You can get up to the top bed the tower with 200 yen!! You pay it first and get in the site! You can see great view from the top of the tower. The stairs may be challenging for you but after all you can have nice view!!! Enjoy!!!"
Erine Taguchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take a bus to the Kannonzaki bus stop. From there, it's a pleasant and relatively short walk to the lighthouse and fort ruins.
Yes, it is well-served by local buses from Yokosuka. The walk from the bus stop is generally considered easy and not too steep.
While there isn't a train station directly at the site, you can take a train to Yokosuka-Chuo Station and then transfer to a bus heading towards Kannonzaki.
There are likely parking facilities available near the Kannonzaki bus stop or the lighthouse area, though it's always best to check local parking information beforehand.
The walk from the bus stop is described as an easy walk, not too steep, with some resting benches along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee to go up the lighthouse tower is typically around ¥200 to ¥300.
You'll need a ticket to ascend the lighthouse tower. The grounds themselves are generally accessible.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most current information.
Unfortunately, there are no souvenirs sold at the lighthouse itself, so plan accordingly if you wish to purchase any mementos.
While not explicitly stated, the narrow spiral stairs might be challenging for very young children or individuals with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself is a prime subject, especially against the sea. The surrounding coastal views from the top also offer great photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally not allowed inside the exhibition room, but you can take photos of the lighthouse exterior and the surrounding landscape.
Sunny mornings provide clear skies and good lighting for capturing the white lighthouse and the bay. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be beautiful.
As with most historical sites and coastal areas, drone usage may be restricted. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the lighthouse and the expansive sea views. [:iphone:]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can visit the historic lighthouse, explore the exhibition room detailing local history, and enjoy the scenic coastal walk.
Families can enjoy the walk and the views. The stairs inside the lighthouse might be challenging for very young children.
Yes, there are rest benches available, including a pleasant spot tucked away from the sun behind the lighthouse.
It stands on the site of Japan's first lighthouse, built in 1925, making it a historically important landmark for maritime navigation.
Absolutely! The lighthouse is strategically located at the end of the Uraga Channel, offering views of ships transiting the Tokyo Bay.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited. The exhibition room offers some educational content about the area's maritime history, which could be interesting for older children. The scenic views are a great way to engage kids with the natural environment and the importance of lighthouses. [:child:]
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The opportunity to climb the lighthouse and experience the panoramic vistas is a highlight. It's a perfect spot for quiet reflection or romantic moments, especially during less crowded times. The lack of souvenir shops means the focus remains on the natural beauty and historical context of the site. [:couplewithheart:]
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The views from the top are also a photographer's dream, offering sweeping panoramas of Tokyo Bay and the shipping traffic. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset or early in the morning for softer light and potentially fewer crowds. Remember that interior photography is restricted in the exhibition room. [:camerawithflash:]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Kannonzaki Lighthouse
The surrounding area also has historical ties, particularly to Yokosuka's role as a naval base. The fort ruins mentioned in its name hint at the strategic importance of this coastal point. Visitors can learn more about this history in the exhibition room located at the base of the lighthouse, which features illustrations and explanations of the Yokosuka coastal area.
The blend of historical significance and picturesque coastal setting makes Kannonzaki a unique destination. The lighthouse itself is a beautiful structure, and its position offers commanding views, connecting visitors to Japan's maritime past.
Experiencing the Views from the Top
From the top, you can observe the busy shipping lanes of the Uraga Channel, with numerous vessels transiting in and out of Tokyo Bay. The expansive sea views stretch out, offering a sense of scale and the importance of this waterway. On a clear day, the visibility is excellent, allowing you to appreciate the vastness of the bay and the distant coastline.
The view is particularly stunning during sunny weather, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. Remember that the stairs can get congested during peak times, so patience might be required.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
While the lighthouse is the main attraction, the broader Kannonzaki Park area is known for its natural beauty and walking trails. Some visitors have noted the presence of other parks and playgrounds in the wider Yokosuka region, suggesting a family-friendly environment for outdoor activities.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Kannonzaki provides a tranquil escape from urban bustle. The combination of the sea, the historical lighthouse, and the walking paths makes for a refreshing day trip.
Social
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