Historical landmark • 1 Chome-22 Imakatata, Otsu, Shiga 520-0241, Japan
The wooden lighthouse standing by the lakeside exudes a faint charm, carrying the appearance of the past to the present. This small lighthouse hides a sad history of an accident, a story deeply engraved in the hearts of local residents.
In the past, Lake Biwa often experienced shipwrecks, perhaps due to the close distance between the shores. In such circumstances, a shipwreck in 1886 became the catalyst for local philanthropists to invest their private funds to build this wooden lighthouse, serving as a facility to guide vessel safety during nighttime navigation.
Although it no longer lights up, the wooden structure, weathered by the years, is exceptionally unique. Taking a closer look, you can confront the elegance of Lake Biwa. Walking through narrow alleys, you will find a quiet residential area, which has become a part of the lives of the local residents.
Although accessing the wooden lighthouse is not easy, we recommend visiting it with a leisurely pace, touching the local empathy, contemplating the history of Lake Biwa, and feeling the compassion of the people in this area. There may be new discoveries and emotions waiting for you.