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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the views and museum

Anorisaki Lighthouse
Best Time
Enjoy the views and museum

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb a historic square lighthouse for panoramic ocean views, with a museum and park below.
"Spectacular 360-degree views of the ocean from this unique, historic lighthouse."

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Lighthouse Museum
Adjacent to the lighthouse
Explore exhibits detailing the history and construction of the lighthouse, including quirky dioramas.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Narrow Roads
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
📸 Perfect for Astrophotography
This spot is highly recommended for astrophotographers seeking clear night skies.
🧺 Picnic & Play Area
The large lawn is great for picnics and for kids to burn off energy.
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!
⏰ Check Closing Time
The lighthouse and museum close at 4 PM. Plan your visit to avoid disappointment, especially for sunset views.
📸 Perfect for Astrophotography
This spot is highly recommended for astrophotographers seeking clear night skies.
🧺 Picnic & Play Area
The large lawn is great for picnics and for kids to burn off energy.
💡 Quirky Museum Exhibits
Don't miss the fun museum exhibits, including Doraemon time machine and lighthouse dioramas!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The road is described as narrow and winding. Visitors advise driving slowly and cautiously, especially when meeting other vehicles.
Yes, there is free parking available at the lighthouse. However, due to the narrow access road, parking can sometimes be tight.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The lighthouse and its museum generally close at 4 PM. It's important to confirm these hours as they can vary seasonally.
Yes, Anorisaki Lighthouse is one of the few in Japan that allows visitors to climb to the top for panoramic views.
There is usually a small admission fee for the lighthouse museum. This fee contributes to the upkeep of the historic site.
The museum, like the lighthouse itself, typically closes at 4 PM. Plan your visit accordingly to allow enough time to explore.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected areas before flying.
It's excellent for landscape photography, architectural shots of the lighthouse, and astrophotography due to its relatively remote location.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, the large lawn area is perfect for children to play. The museum also has some quirky exhibits that might interest them.
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.
The area around the lighthouse features a large, open lawn. The climb inside the lighthouse involves stairs.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trip & Scenic Drive Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Anorisaki Lighthouse
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. 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.
Being one of only 16 climbable lighthouses in Japan, Anorisaki offers a rare opportunity for visitors to experience a working lighthouse from the inside. 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.
Experiencing Anorisaki Lighthouse: Views and Beyond
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. This open space contrasts with the often-narrow access road, offering a sense of freedom and tranquility.
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. The combination of historical architecture, stunning natural scenery, and engaging exhibits makes Anorisaki Lighthouse a memorable destination.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit