Inubosaki Lighthouse (Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Inubosaki Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Inubosaki in Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture. It is one of the lighthouses constructed under the guidance of foreign engineers during the Meiji period, and has supported safe navigation since ancient times as a landmark on the cape overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The white tower is also beautiful as a scenic spot, and on clear days it offers a magnificent panoramic view that stretches into the distance. It is also famous as a spot to watch the first sunrise of the year, and many people visit to watch the sun rise over the sea.

Highlights

• Lighthouse exterior: The white cylindrical tower is a photogenic sight. The contrast between the blue sky and sea in the daytime and the sunset in the evening is beautiful.
• View (if you can climb the lighthouse): From the top of the lighthouse you can enjoy a nearly 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean (please check in advance whether climbing is possible and the times).
• Sunrise viewing: Located at the tip of the cape, it is a great spot to watch the sun rise over the sea. It gets especially crowded on New Year's Day.
• Surrounding coastal scenery: Enjoy the natural scenery, including rugged rocks, splashing waves, and the expansive horizon.
• Choshi's seafood and cuisine: There are many fishmongers and seafood restaurants in the neighborhood, so you can enjoy fresh seafood.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Walking: About a 10-15 minute walk from Inubo Station on the Choshi Electric Railway. The Choshi Electric Railway is also popular as a sightseeing train, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way.
• Train + Bus: Approximately 15-25 minutes by bus from JR Choshi Station, then a few minutes' walk from the nearest bus stop.
• By car: From Tokyo, use local roads and expressways. The travel time will depend on traffic conditions, but it will take approximately 2 to 3 hours. There is a parking lot near the lighthouse (paid or free depending on the season).
• Please note: Public transport and surrounding roads will be congested during the New Year holidays, consecutive holidays, and tourist seasons. Please check public transport schedules and parking information in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Lighthouse tour only: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, including the option to climb the tower.
• If you include walking around the area and meals, it will take about 1.5 to 3 hours.
• If you're going early in the morning to watch the sunrise, it's a good idea to plan for half a day starting early in the morning, including travel time and waiting time.

Nearby spots

• Around Inubo Station (Choshi Electric Railway): You can enjoy the retro station building, souvenir shops, and the local specialty, wet rice crackers.
• Choshi Fishing Port and Togawa Port: There is a wide variety of seafood delicacies around the fish market and fishing port.
• Byobugaura (a cliff with a great view) and coastal walking trails: Enjoy the dynamic natural scenery.
• Choshi Port Tower, souvenir shops in Inubosaki, and the aquarium (please check opening hours): These are facilities recommended for families.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: It gets especially crowded around the first sunrise of the year, during consecutive holidays, and during the summer beach season. We recommend arriving early and using public transportation.
• Climbing the tower and opening hours: The hours during which you can climb the lighthouse and the admission fee may change depending on the season and the facility's circumstances. Please check the official information in advance.
• Safety measures: The rocks at the cape are slippery and dangerous when the waves are high. Please be mindful of safety by not going outside the fences and keeping an eye on children.
• Clothing and weather: The sea breeze is strong, so the temperature feels lower than it actually is. Take measures to protect yourself from the wind and cold. In the summer, you'll also need protection from the sun.
• Manners: Please be considerate of those around you by respecting nature and facilities, not making noise, and taking your trash with you.

*For the latest information on opening hours, admission fees, parking availability, etc., please check the official information and tourism websites of Choshi City and Inubosaki Lighthouse.