Kashinozaki Lighthouse and the Ertuğrul in Kushimoto | A Story of International Friendship at the Turkish Memorial Museum

A story of friendship across the sea, preserved at Kashinozaki in Kushimoto

Kushimoto is well known for Hashikuiiwa Rocks and Cape Shionomisaki, but the town has another side worth discovering between sightseeing stops. On the eastern tip of Kii-Oshima Island, which lies just off the easternmost edge of the southernmost area of Honshu, you'll find Kashinozaki. Here stand Kashinozaki Lighthouse and the Turkish Memorial Museum, which tells the story of the shipwreck of the Ottoman frigate Ertuğrul. Together they mark the very beginning of international exchange between Japan and Turkey.

It's not just a scenic viewpoint — once you know the history, the same stretch of sea looks completely different.

What was the Ertuğrul?

In 1890 (Meiji 23), the Ottoman frigate Ertuğrul visited Japan as a goodwill envoy. On its journey home, it was caught in a storm off the coast of Kushimoto, struck a reef, and sank. While many crew members lost their lives, those who made it to shore were rescued by the residents of Oshima Island.

Despite having only limited resources, the villagers shared clothing and food and tended to the survivors with great care. About 70 people survived, and were later returned safely to Turkey aboard Japanese naval vessels. This event became the starting point of the two countries' long-standing friendship.

A walk around Kashinozaki Lighthouse

Feel the history of Japan's Western-style lighthouses

Kashinozaki Lighthouse was built in the early Meiji era and is one of the oldest stone-built Western-style lighthouses in Japan. Its white tower stands out beautifully against the blue sea and sky, making it a popular spot for photos. The sweeping view of the Kumano-nada Sea and the Pacific Ocean has a scale that only a cape can offer.

Looking out over the waters of the shipwreck

Gazing out at the sea from around the lighthouse, you can sense why these waters have long been a treacherous passage for ships. On windy days, the harshness of the cape feels very real. The wind can be strong and chilly underfoot, so bringing a light jacket is a good idea.

Discover today's international exchange at the Turkish Memorial Museum

Right next to the lighthouse, the Turkish Memorial Museum introduces the events of the shipwreck, the stories of those who took part in the rescue, and the history of exchange with Turkey. The grounds also include a memorial monument, where visitors can often be seen quietly paying their respects.

Equally moving is what came afterward. In 1985, when tensions rose during the Iran–Iraq War, Turkish aircraft rescued Japanese citizens stranded in the region — an act often spoken of as "returning the kindness of that time." It is a story of compassion between people, passed down across nearly a century.

A few tips before you go

• Access: From Kushimoto Station, you can cross to Kii-Oshima Island via the Kushimoto Ohashi Bridge. Traveling by car is the smoothest option. If using public transportation, be sure to check the latest schedules in advance.
• Combine your visit: Pairing this stop with Hashikuiiwa Rocks and Cape Shionomisaki makes for a day filled with the coastal scenery that defines Kushimoto.
• Mindset: As this is also a place of remembrance, please visit with a quiet and respectful attitude.
• Opening days and fees: These may change, so please check official sources before your visit.

In summary

Kashinozaki Lighthouse and the Turkish Memorial Museum in Kushimoto are places where beautiful scenery and the story of international friendship surrounding the Ertuğrul come together. On your journey along the Kumano Kodo or between hot spring stays, consider taking a short detour to this seaside cape and listening to the history carried on the ocean breeze.

Image: 和歌山フォトライブラリー (via 和歌山フォトライブラリー)