Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Daiozaki Lighthouse is a coastal lighthouse located at Daiozaki in Daio Town, Shima City, Mie Prefecture. Located at the tip of the cape, facing the Pacific Ocean, the Kumano Sea, and the Kii Channel, it has long played an important role as a key point for maritime traffic. The surrounding area is attractive for its steep rocky ria coastline and seascape, and the contrast between the lighthouse and the sea makes it a popular photo spot.
The lighthouse itself has a striking white appearance, and as it is located on a high point on the cape, it has a wide view, and on clear days you can enjoy the horizon and the sunrise and sunset views. There are walking paths and observation spots around the lighthouse, making it a great place to take a stroll and feel the sea breeze.
Highlights
- Lighthouse and seascape: A classic photo spot where the contrast between the white lighthouse and the rough sea and reefs stands out.
- Panoramic view: The horizon and the surrounding ria coastline can be seen from the high point of the cape. It is especially beautiful at sunset and sunrise.
- Coastal Walking Path: Enjoy the sound of the waves and the sea breeze while walking along the promenade and rocky areas around the cape.
- Seabirds and fishing boats: Depending on the season and time of day, you can see seabirds and fishing boats.
- Facilities near the lighthouse: There is a souvenir shop and a small observation space where you may be able to check out local seafood and souvenirs (availability of facilities varies depending on the season).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Public transportation is limited, so access from the nearest station often requires transfers. You can also take a bus or taxi from major stations in the Shima area (e.g., Kintetsu Ugata Station).
- Buses and taxis: Local buses and tourist buses may operate, but they are not frequent so we recommend checking the schedules in advance. It is convenient to take a direct taxi from Ugata or various parts of Shima.
- By car: The most convenient way to get there is by rental car or private car. Drive along the coastal road, park at the small car park at the tip of the cape, and then walk to the area around the lighthouse. Please note that parking spaces can be limited.
- Sightseeing boat route: If there are tours that combine sightseeing in nearby bays or island hopping plans, you may be able to enjoy the scenery along with a boat trip (this varies depending on the season and operating company).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (viewing the exterior of the lighthouse, taking photos, walking around the immediate area)
- A leisurely stroll: 1-2 hours (enjoying the view, strolling along the promenade on the cape and the surrounding coast, and stopping by the shops and cafes in the area)
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (when combining with nearby tourist spots, meals, pearl-related facilities, etc.)
Nearby spots
- Kashikojima: The island has beautiful views of Ago Bay, and is home to sightseeing boats, observation spots, and resort facilities.
- Ago Bay: A bay known for pearl farming. You can enjoy the scenery inside the bay and take a cruise around the bay.
- Shima's pearl-related facilities and direct sales stores: The Shima region is famous as a pearl farming area, and there are places to see and purchase pearl products.
- Shima Spain Village (Parque Espana): A theme park that can be reached by car (if you have time).
- Ise Shrine (Ise City): About an hour's drive away. It is common to combine this with sightseeing at Ise Shrine.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Parking lots and observation spots can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and weekends. Early morning and evening hours are often when people gather to take photos.
- Touring the interior of the lighthouse: Whether or not you can enter the interior (upper part) of the lighthouse depends on the manager's policy or may only be possible during events. Please check in advance whether you can tour the interior, as well as the times and fees.
- Safety precautions: The rocky areas of the cape can be slippery and you may be splashed by waves in some places. Standing or swimming on the beach or rocky areas can be dangerous, so please obey all signs and no-entry areas.
- Weather and seasons: The coastal area is windy and experiences large temperature fluctuations, so be sure to dress warmly in winter and take precautions against heatstroke in summer. Access may be restricted or services may be suspended during typhoon season or severe weather, so be sure to check the latest information in advance.
- Manners: To protect the natural environment, please take your trash with you, do not collect plants or living things, and be considerate of local residents and other tourists.
If necessary, we will look up and add the latest specific information, such as the lighthouse's exact history (year of construction and designer), whether or not you can tour the interior and its opening hours, the location and capacity of the parking lot, the nearest bus times, etc. Please let us know the items you would like us to look up.
