# Shioyasaki Lighthouse

> Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Iwaki, Shioyasaki Lighthouse is one of Japan's most scenic lighthouses. Built in 1899, the 27-meter tower offers panoramic views of the rugged Fukushima coastline. It was famously associated with singer Misora Hibari, whose monument stands nearby. A popular spot for sunrise watching.

- Prefecture: Fukushima
- Type: Landmark
- Address: Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan
- Admission: 300 yen

Standing on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Shioyasaki Lighthouse has guided ships since 1899 and is one of Japan's most photographed maritime beacons. The 27-meter white tower rises against blue sea and sky, while surrounding walking paths offer sweeping coastal views and access to tide pools at the cliff base. At night, the rotating beam continues its vigilant sweep over waters where the Kuroshio Current brings warm tropical waters northward along the Fukushima coast.

## FAQ

### What are the opening hours for Shioyasaki Lighthouse?

Morning: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM (year-round). Closed 12:00-1:00 PM for lunch. Afternoon: 1:00-4:30 PM on weekends (Mar-Sep) or 1:00-4:00 PM on weekdays and Oct-Feb. Last entry 30 minutes before closing. One of only 16 climbable lighthouses in Japan.

### What is the connection to Misora Hibari?

The lighthouse is immortalized in Misora Hibari's 1987 hit song 'Midaregami' which references 'the cape of Shioya.' A monument to the song stands at the lighthouse entrance. The lighthouse keeper's wife also inspired the 1957 film 'Joy and Sorrow' (Yorokobi mo Kanashimi mo Ikutoshitsuki).

### Was the lighthouse damaged in the 2011 earthquake?

Yes, Shioyasaki Lighthouse was damaged during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and went dark for approximately 9 months before being restored. It now symbolizes the region's recovery efforts. The lighthouse was also rebuilt once before in reinforced concrete after the 1938 Fukushima offshore earthquake.

### How do I get to Shioyasaki Lighthouse?

From JR Iwaki Station, take the Shin-Joban Kotsu bus toward 'Toyoma' to Toyoma Tobou stop, about 30 minutes (¥630, runs roughly hourly), then walk 5 minutes to the lighthouse base; another 100 stone steps lead up to the lighthouse itself. By car: 30 minutes from JR Iwaki Station via Route 6, free parking available. Combine with Spa Resort Hawaiians (15 min by car) for a full Iwaki day.

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Source: Shioyasaki Lighthouse — Japan Voyage