The Harbor's Symbol: Jōyatō Stone Lighthouse Rising Above the Gangi and Wavefront
About this spot
Standing at the tip of the wavefront as Tomo no Ura's symbol, this stone lighthouse rises over 10 meters from its submarine foundation to the jeweled finial, said to be among Japan's largest extant Edo-period lighthouses. It served as a beacon for ships entering and leaving the harbor each night and is affectionately called "Tōrodō" locally. Surrounding it are preserved gangi (tiered ship landing stairs) that aligned with tidal changes and the wavefront itself. Remarkably, the complete set of port facilities—lighthouse, gangi, wavefront, beacon fire site ruins, and harbor master's office ruins—remains in one place only in Tomo no Ura nationwide. Sitting on the stone pavement gazing at the sea, time flows gently in this tidal waiting port.
Tips
The area around Jōyatō has narrow lanes impassable by car, so explore on foot. The gangi stone steps become slippery when wet, so watch your footing. Being a popular photo spot, mid-morning is best for fewer crowds. Small shops and cafés dot the nearby alleyways.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour. Mid-morning light bathes the sea beautifully, and the composition framing Jōyatō and the bay across the gangi photographs well.
Access & map
〒720-0201 Fukuyama, Hiroshima Prefecture, Tomo Town, Tomo 843-1
Model course featuring this spot
Tomo no Ura (鞆の浦): Sightseeing Walk through the Harbor of Tidal Waiting – Jōyatō Lighthouse and Taishōrō Tower
Hiroshima
Explore features & model courses
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