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Anorisaki Lighthouse

4.3
·717 reviews·Shima, Japan

Climb a historic square lighthouse for panoramic ocean views, with a museum and park below.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime, before 4 PM

Enjoy the views and museum

CrowdMedium
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灯台1

Anorisaki Lighthouse

Best Time

Daytime, before 4 PM

Enjoy the views and museum

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Climb a historic square lighthouse for panoramic ocean views, with a museum and park below.

4.3
(717 reviews)

"Spectacular 360-degree views of the ocean from this unique, historic lighthouse."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads

The road to the lighthouse is narrow; drive slowly and be mindful of oncoming traffic. Parking is free!

⏰ Check Closing Time

The lighthouse and museum close at 4 PM. Plan your visit to avoid disappointment, especially for sunset views.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ocean Views

Panoramic Ocean Views

Top of the lighthouse

Ascend the historic lighthouse for breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Matoya Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Unique Square Lighthouse

Unique Square Lighthouse

Cape Anori

Admire the distinctive square design of this 1873 lighthouse, a rare architectural gem in Japan.

Lighthouse Museum

Lighthouse Museum

Adjacent to the lighthouse

Explore exhibits detailing the history and construction of the lighthouse, including quirky dioramas.

Expansive Lawn Area

Expansive Lawn Area

In front of the lighthouse

Enjoy a picnic or let kids run wild in the spacious green area with beautiful coastal scenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Narrow Roads

The road leading to Anorisaki Lighthouse is famously narrow. Many visitors recommend driving slowly and cautiously, especially if encountering oncoming traffic. Parking is available and free, but be prepared for a potentially tight squeeze.

Timing Your Visit

While the lighthouse offers stunning ocean views, it closes relatively early at 4 PM. If you're hoping for sunset views, plan accordingly. The lighthouse museum also follows this schedule, so check hours before you go.

Best Times

When
Daytime, before 4 PM
Why
Enjoy the views and museum
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear mornings
Why
Best visibility for views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Aventuras de verão ☀️🌊😎 . . . #安乗埼灯台 #visitmie #anorisakilighthouse
felipaoo_._
48 likes • 610 views

🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads

The road to the lighthouse is narrow; drive slowly and be mindful of oncoming traffic. Parking is free! Reddit

⏰ Check Closing Time

The lighthouse and museum close at 4 PM. Plan your visit to avoid disappointment, especially for sunset views. Reddit

🌊 Anorisaki Lighthouse 🌊 It is a rare square lighthouse in Japan. Nearby is the Anorisaki Lighthouse Museum, which displays the history and materials of the lighthouse. It is located on Cape Anori, which separates the calm waves of Matoya Bay from the Pacific Ocean. It is an unusual square lighthouse, but when it was built in 1873 it was a wooden octagon. Inside the Anorisaki Lighthouse Gar...
hijapan1
0 likes • 1.4K views
Anorisaki Lighthouse Shima Mie Japan #lighthouse #anorisakilighthouse #visitjapan #visitmie #mie #shima #traveljapan #reelsfb
christopherasumbrado
15 likes • 115 views

📸 Perfect for Astrophotography

This spot is highly recommended for astrophotographers seeking clear night skies. Reddit

🧺 Picnic & Play Area

The large lawn is great for picnics and for kids to burn off energy. Reddit

. #repost #🇯🇵 #japan . ──────────────── ➡📷:@japanlighthouseclub 🙌Thanks for your cooperation🙌 ──────────────── . ♢安乗埼灯台(1873年) ♢志摩市,三重県 . ─────────────── . 日本灯台倶楽部では 皆さまから灯台の写真や動画を集めてご紹介しております! . 🐳リポスト用ハッシュタグ🐳 #日本灯台倶楽部 皆さまからのご投稿を楽しみにしております(^^) . . ﹏𓊝﹏﹏𓉶﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏𓇼 . . ♦Anorisaki Lighthouse (1873) ♦Shimai,Mie ─────────────── . We are collecting video and photos of the lighthouse. I am glad if you attac...
japanlighthouseclub
264 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Carefully on Narrow Roads

The road to the lighthouse is narrow; drive slowly and be mindful of oncoming traffic. Parking is free! Reddit

⏰ Check Closing Time

The lighthouse and museum close at 4 PM. Plan your visit to avoid disappointment, especially for sunset views. Reddit

📸 Perfect for Astrophotography

This spot is highly recommended for astrophotographers seeking clear night skies. Reddit

🧺 Picnic & Play Area

The large lawn is great for picnics and for kids to burn off energy. Reddit

💡 Quirky Museum Exhibits

Don't miss the fun museum exhibits, including Doraemon time machine and lighthouse dioramas! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(717 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Anorisaki Lighthouse for its stunning 360-degree ocean views from the top and its unique, historic square architecture. The adjacent museum and spacious lawn area are also highlighted as enjoyable features, making it a pleasant spot for picnics and family outings. However, some find the narrow access road challenging and note that the early 4 PM closing time can limit sunset viewing opportunities.

"This white, square lighthouse stands on Cape Anorizaki overlooking Matoya Bay, and although it is not tall, it offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the ocean.
This historic lighthouse was the setting for the movie "Joy and Sorrow for Many Years," and is one of 16 climbable lighthouses across the country.
The lighthouse museum and the vast lawn area in front of it are pleasant, but care should be taken as the road to get there is narrow."

Taka Nei

"The lighthouse and shops closes at an early 4pm though it's also a nice site for sunset views. With an expansive field for kids to tire themselves out or for a picnic, this is a pretty nice hangout. Don't forget to check out the quirky door, doraemon time machine and lighthouse dioramas!"

Rtexal Tan

"the view is nice. the carpark is free."

David

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Unique square lighthouse
Spacious lawn area

What People Dislike

Narrow access road
Early 4 PM closing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The lighthouse is located on Cape Anori. Access is primarily by car, but be aware that the road is narrow and requires careful driving. Free parking is available on-site. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited. It's best to check local bus schedules, but driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the lighthouse. Reddit

The road is described as narrow and winding. Visitors advise driving slowly and cautiously, especially when meeting other vehicles. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available at the lighthouse. However, due to the narrow access road, parking can sometimes be tight. Reddit

While the lighthouse itself is a primary draw, some visitors note that there aren't many other major attractions immediately nearby, making it a focused visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds and the lighthouse museum typically requires a ticket. It's advisable to check the official operating hours and admission fees before your visit. Instagram

The lighthouse and its museum generally close at 4 PM. It's important to confirm these hours as they can vary seasonally. Reddit

Yes, Anorisaki Lighthouse is one of the few in Japan that allows visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views. Reddit

There is usually a small admission fee for the lighthouse museum. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the historic site. Instagram

The museum, like the lighthouse itself, typically closes at 4 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to allow enough time to explore. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the lighthouse offers incredible 360-degree ocean views. The unique square structure itself is also a great subject, especially with the coastal backdrop. Instagram

While the lighthouse closes at 4 PM, the surrounding area can still offer beautiful light for photography. However, for direct sunset shots from the top, you'd need to check if extended hours are ever available. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected areas before flying. TikTok

It's excellent for landscape photography, architectural shots of the lighthouse, and astrophotography due to its relatively remote location. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the site and other visitors. Check for any specific signage regarding photography inside the museum or lighthouse. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can climb the lighthouse for views, visit the museum, enjoy the expansive lawn for picnics or relaxation, and take in the coastal scenery. Reddit

Yes, the large lawn area is perfect for children to play. The museum also has some quirky exhibits that might interest them. Reddit

Most visitors spend about 30 to 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how long they take to climb the lighthouse and explore the museum. Reddit

The area around the lighthouse features a large, open lawn. The climb inside the lighthouse involves stairs. Instagram

Restroom facilities are typically available at such tourist sites, but it's always a good idea to confirm beforehand or use facilities before arriving if you have concerns. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anorisaki Lighthouse is a great outing for families. The expansive lawn area in front of the lighthouse is perfect for children to run around and burn off energy, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. Reddit The lighthouse museum also features some fun and quirky exhibits, like Doraemon-themed displays, which can capture the imagination of younger visitors. Reddit While the climb up the lighthouse involves stairs, the rewarding panoramic views are often a hit with kids, offering a sense of adventure. Remember to drive slowly on the narrow approach road and be mindful of the 4 PM closing time. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Anorisaki Lighthouse presents a unique canvas. The distinctive square structure itself is an architectural subject, especially against the backdrop of the sea. Instagram The real magic, however, happens at the top, where the 360-degree panoramic views offer endless possibilities for landscape shots. Reddit Furthermore, its relatively remote location makes it a favored spot for astrophotographers seeking clear night skies and stunning celestial displays. Reddit While the lighthouse closes at 4 PM, the surrounding coastal scenery can still provide excellent opportunities for golden hour photography. TikTok

🚗 Road Trip & Scenic Drive Fans

If you enjoy scenic drives with a rewarding destination, Anorisaki Lighthouse fits the bill. The journey to the lighthouse involves navigating a narrow, winding road that, while requiring caution, offers glimpses of the coastal landscape. Reddit Upon arrival, the unique architecture of the lighthouse and the sweeping ocean panoramas provide a picturesque payoff. Instagram It's a perfect stop for those exploring the Shima Peninsula, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. Just be sure to plan your timing, as the site closes at 4 PM. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Architecture of Anorisaki Lighthouse

Anorisaki Lighthouse, established in 1873, stands as a significant historical landmark on Cape Anori. Originally constructed as an octagonal wooden structure, it was rebuilt in its current, distinctive square concrete form in 1930 (Showa 5). Instagram+1 This architectural evolution makes it a unique sight among Japanese lighthouses. Its strategic location on the cape, separating the calm waters of Matoya Bay from the Pacific Ocean, highlights its historical importance for maritime navigation. Instagram

The lighthouse is not just a functional beacon but also a symbol of the region's maritime heritage. It was famously featured as a filming location for the movie "Joy and Sorrow for Many Years," adding a layer of cultural significance. Reddit Visitors can explore the adjacent museum to delve deeper into its past, viewing historical artifacts and learning about the engineering feats involved in its construction and maintenance. Reddit

Being one of only 16 climbable lighthouses in Japan, Anorisaki offers a rare opportunity for visitors to experience a working lighthouse from the inside. Reddit The climb rewards adventurers with unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding seascape, making the journey worthwhile for both history buffs and casual tourists alike. Reddit

Experiencing Anorisaki Lighthouse: Views and Beyond

The primary draw of Anorisaki Lighthouse is undoubtedly the spectacular panoramic view from its summit. Ascending the tower provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista encompassing Matoya Bay and the vast Pacific Ocean. Reddit This expansive scenery makes it a prime spot for photography and simply soaking in the coastal beauty. Instagram

Beyond the lighthouse itself, the grounds offer a pleasant experience. A large, expansive lawn area surrounds the lighthouse, providing ample space for families to relax, children to play, or for visitors to enjoy a picnic with a view. Reddit This open space contrasts with the often-narrow access road, offering a sense of freedom and tranquility. Reddit

For those interested in the details, the lighthouse museum offers a glimpse into its history and function. Visitors can find unique exhibits, including quirky dioramas and even a Doraemon time machine replica, adding a touch of fun to the historical context. Reddit The combination of historical architecture, stunning natural scenery, and engaging exhibits makes Anorisaki Lighthouse a memorable destination.

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