Sugashima Lighthouse

"Approximately 10m high, first built in 1873. The white lighthouse has been designated as a national important cultural property and heritage of industrial modernization. The brick exterior, designed by Richard H. Blanton, retains the same nostalgic atmosphere as when it was first built. It is a lighthouse worth seeing and also features a commemorative plaque.

The route from Sugashima Port to the lighthouse via Shirongo Beach is approximately 1.8 km and takes 25 to 30 minutes. The route is about 1km, 15-20 minutes if you go southeast past the post office and then go north. Both roads are clear and can be circumnavigated. I think it's a good idea to stop at famous places along the way.

The best time to visit is from mid-February to late February, when the daffodils are blooming. In front of the lighthouse is a modest flower garden where you can enjoy the view of the sea, sky, and lighthouse. The daffodils, which can overpopulate if left untreated, are managed by the islanders in an appropriate amount.
Other recommended times are during the rainy season when the hydrangeas bloom, and during the Shirongo Festival held in July. Although it is difficult to schedule, it is possible to see the inside during festivals.

Most of the time you will be traveling around the island on foot, so we recommend wearing clothes and shoes that are comfortable for walking. Sandals etc. are not suitable. It's quite a distance, so be sure to carry water in hot weather."

Ar Kn

"March 2025
I parked my car at Toba Port.
The road from the port to the lighthouse is completely paved. The area around the lighthouse is also well-maintained and very impressive."

M “LIZ” N

"We left my grandpa's car in the marine terminal parking lot and took the ferry to visit.
I'm sure those reading this review are collecting lighthouse cards. Of course, there's a QR code. For some reason, there's one on the back of the lighthouse, too. This is what they call mentalism.

The ferry fare from Toba to Sugashima is a truly amazing bargain: 510 yen for adults and 260 yen for children.
It takes about 30 minutes to get from the Sugashima ferry dock to the lighthouse in the summer, but I recommend allowing yourself about 30 minutes. Not only will you lose time spooked by the outsized grasshoppers and swallowtail butterflies, but there are also some parts of the journey where you'll need to push yourself a little harder. I can't help but think about how much easier it would be if humans had engine brakes. Fantasy aside, the path to the lighthouse is a promenade, and while it's gentle, it does have some ups and downs, so if you're planning on visiting, I recommend forgoing the fancy dress for a remote island and wearing clothes suitable for exercise. There are signs leading up to the lighthouse, so you don't have to worry too much about getting lost.

On the way, you'll see a so-called cut-through path that cuts through the rock like fangs. Below you, the shallows sparkle emerald green, and in the distance, Ise Bay is dyed the color of flowers. People call this a spectacular view. It's a breathtaking view, truly breathtaking.

From the platform, you climb up like the little bunny Hattori, over mountains and valleys, and finally you can see Sugashima Lighthouse. It took me about 40 minutes because I was an old man and my companion. It's completely invisible from below, so you only notice it when it's right in front of you.
You're greeted by the gate with a nameplate at Sugashima Lighthouse, and are allowed onto the premises. Although it's now uninhabited, there used to be impressive government housing here, and the fact that the gate remains is reminiscent of Tateishi Cape Lighthouse.
It's not very high, but I love the weighty feeling it gives off, taking advantage of its location on high ground. The decorations around the doors and windows are also captivating.
Sugashima Lighthouse is said to be the oldest surviving brick lighthouse, and the lighthouse official residence is on display at Meiji Village in Aichi Prefecture. If you're interested, I recommend visiting. It takes just over two hours from Toba, and passengers can enjoy Denki Bran and nama chocolate. The nama chocolate is also delicious, but I'll tell you about it another time."

キラキラお嬢様里美