Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Ascend Japan's tallest white lighthouse for breathtaking coastal panoramas and explore dramatic volcanic cliffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Japan's tallest white lighthouse for breathtaking coastal panoramas and explore dramatic volcanic cliffs.
"The views from the top are incredible! Exploring the surrounding coast is just as cool."
🎯 Climb for the View
Worth the 300 yen fee for incredible panoramic views! :moneybag:
👟 Explore Coastal Trails
Enjoy scenic walks along the dramatic cliffs and coastline. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hinomisaki Lighthouse Summit
Top of the lighthouse
Panoramic views of the stunning coastline and inland Shimane. A truly unforgettable vista.
Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
Surrounding coastline
Intriguing volcanic rock formations and a scenic walking trail offering unique geological beauty.
Hinomisaki Shrine
Short walk from lighthouse
A serene spiritual site nestled within the beautiful coastal landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for Coastal Vistas
Explore Beyond the Lighthouse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb for the View
Worth the 300 yen fee for incredible panoramic views! :moneybag:
👟 Explore Coastal Trails
Enjoy scenic walks along the dramatic cliffs and coastline. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive along Hinomisaki coastline is beautiful with many stops. :car:
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of potential snakes and spiders on trails. :snake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb for the View
Worth the 300 yen fee for incredible panoramic views! :moneybag:
👟 Explore Coastal Trails
Enjoy scenic walks along the dramatic cliffs and coastline. :hiking_boot:
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive along Hinomisaki coastline is beautiful with many stops. :car:
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of potential snakes and spiders on trails. :snake:
📸 Capture the Beauty
Stunning photo opportunities of the lighthouse and coast. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible views from the top of Hinomisaki Lighthouse, calling the 300 yen climb well worth it. The surrounding dramatic coastal cliffs and walking trails are also highly praised for their intriguing volcanic formations and scenic beauty. While the climb is physically demanding, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile visit for its natural splendor and affordability.
"An awesome place to visit! The views from the top are incredible! And exploring the surrounding coast is just as cool. The formations of the cliffs are so intriguing. It cost us 300yen to go up the lighthouse, it was well worth it!"
zbusurprise
"The drive to the lighthouse winds along the Hinomisaki coastline, with multiple areas to stop along the way to admire the dramatic rocky landscape. The parking lot at the end is free, and there is a large toilet building there too.
From the lighthouse, there is a walking trail that takes you along the coastline in a loop back to the parking lot, or even further to the shrine. As it started raining today, I decided to only do the smaller loop, but it was still enioyable."
Ilse van Ewijk
"The majestic and magnificent lighthouse offers an excellent view after climbing up, but the prerequisite is that you must have great courage and physical strength. During the climb, you can browse information about Japan's 100 Selected Lighthouses. There is also a display hut next to the lighthouse that explains the history and operation procedures of the lighthouse. A visit here is definitely worthwhile."
Evans Huang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Matsue, you can take a bus towards Hinomisaki. The drive winds along the scenic coastline, offering beautiful views. There are also designated stops along the way to admire the dramatic rocky landscape.
Yes, there is free parking available at the lighthouse. It's convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While the lighthouse is accessible by car, the surrounding area is great for walking. You can explore coastal trails and even walk to the nearby shrine.
The drive along the Hinomisaki coastline is highly recommended, with multiple spots to pull over and enjoy the dramatic scenery. Exploring the walking trails around the lighthouse also offers a great perspective.
Buses are available from Matsue to Hinomisaki, making it accessible for those without a car. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee to climb the Hinomisaki Lighthouse is 300 yen. Many visitors find it well worth the price for the incredible views.
Specific opening hours can vary, so it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. However, it's generally accessible during daylight hours.
Advance booking is typically not required for the Hinomisaki Lighthouse. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
The surrounding coastal area and walking trails are generally free to access. The only fee is for climbing the lighthouse itself.
Inside the lighthouse, you can find information about Japan's 100 Selected Lighthouses and displays detailing the history and operation of the lighthouse.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers unparalleled panoramic shots of the coast. The surrounding cliffs and the lighthouse itself from various angles are also highly photogenic. 
Yes, the late afternoon offers a beautiful golden hour for photography, and the lighthouse is known for its incredible sunsets.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the cliffs.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within the lighthouse or surrounding areas.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The climb involves stairs and requires good physical strength and courage. It's a rewarding ascent with historical information available along the way.
Yes, there are walking trails that loop around the coastline, some extending further to the shrine. These offer beautiful views of the dramatic landscape.
Explore the unique volcanic rock formations along the coast, visit the nearby Hinomisaki Shrine, and enjoy the scenic drive.
The climb to the top of the lighthouse is strenuous and not suitable for those with significant mobility issues. The surrounding grounds are more accessible.
There is a free parking lot and a large toilet building available at the lighthouse site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Adventurers
Consider combining your visit with exploring Matsue and Izumo, as suggested by locals, to round out your Shimane experience. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for late afternoon to capture the stunning sunset light, which bathes the landscape in a warm glow. Don't forget to explore the surrounding cliffs for unique perspectives and textures. The lighthouse summit itself provides a sweeping panorama perfect for wide-angle lenses. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for a fee of 300 yen, a price many find incredibly reasonable for the experience. From the summit, the panoramic views are truly spectacular. You can gaze out at the vast expanse of the Sea of Japan and the rolling inland landscapes of Shimane.
+1 This vantage point makes it a prime location for photography, especially during the golden hour when the light casts a magical glow over the scenery. The lighthouse is not just a structure; it's a gateway to appreciating the natural beauty and maritime heritage of the region.Beyond the lighthouse itself, the area is rich with natural wonders. The coastline is characterized by dramatic volcanic rock formations, creating an intriguing and rugged landscape.
Exploring the Hinomisaki Coastline
Several walking trails are available, allowing visitors to explore the coastline at their own pace. These paths offer opportunities to get up close with the rock formations and enjoy the sea breeze.
While exploring, visitors are advised to be aware of the natural environment. There have been mentions of potential wildlife, such as snakes and spiders, on the trails, so it's wise to stay on marked paths and be observant.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit