This project maps and visualizes the distribution of lighthouses across Japan to highlight the spatial relationship between coastal geography and maritime navigation infrastructure. The objective was to create a clean, high-contrast cartographic product that emphasizes the density and positioning of lighthouses along Japan’s extensive and topographically complex coastline.
Administrative boundary data for Japan were sourced from DIVA-GIS, while lighthouse point data were extracted from OpenStreetMap using the QuickOSM plugin within QGIS. The OpenStreetMap query filtered features using the key-value pair man_made = lighthouse, ensuring that only confirmed lighthouse structures were included in the analysis. All spatial datasets were reviewed and standardized to EPSG:4326 (WGS84) to ensure coordinate consistency and accurate spatial alignment.
Cartographic styling was central to this project. The Japan boundary layer was symbolized using a solid black fill to create a strong visual contrast against a dark navy layout background. Lighthouse locations were represented using white circular markers enhanced with a controlled outer glow effect. The glow styling visually reinforces the functional purpose of lighthouses as beacons, while also improving feature legibility at a national scale. Symbol sizing and blending modes were carefully adjusted to maintain clarity without overpowering the map composition.
The layout was designed in portrait orientation to complement Japan’s north–south geographic structure. Composition principles were applied to balance scale, spacing, and visual hierarchy. Elements including title typography, scale bar configuration, and attribution text were styled with consistent color and weight to maintain a cohesive minimalist aesthetic. Export settings were configured at high resolution to preserve symbol sharpness and glow effects.
This project demonstrates proficiency in data acquisition from open-source platforms, coordinate system management, symbol layer effects, layout composition, and visual hierarchy within QGIS. It reflects an understanding of how cartographic design can reinforce thematic meaning—in this case, using illumination effects to conceptually represent navigational guidance.
Beyond visual presentation, the map highlights the spatial dependence of lighthouse infrastructure on coastal morphology, shipping routes, and island distribution. The outputs may support discussions related to maritime safety, coastal planning, and infrastructure distribution across archipelagic environments.
