Zanpa Misaki Tourist Guide | Summary of Travel Time, Sunset Times, Lighthouse, and Parking
What are some recommended ways to spend time at Cape Zampa?
Lunch.Cape Zanbamisaki LighthouseWe recommend climbing to the top to take in the breathtaking views of the cliffs and the East China Sea, and then staying at the cape in the evening to watch the sunset. At night, you can also enjoy a star-gazing tour and marvel at the star-filled sky!
What is Cape Zanpa? How is it pronounced? Where is it? What’s there?
Cape Zanpa is “Zanpa Misaki"It's a cape located in Yomitan Village in central Okinawa Island. With its white lighthouse and cliffs rising 30 to 40 meters high, it's one of the island's most iconic scenic spots!"
In this column, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of Cape Zampa’s highlights, the time needed for a visit, sunset times by month, things to do at night, and how to get there and where to park.
◆For those who want to know what there is to do at Cape Zampa and how long it takes
◆For those who want to see the sunset or the starry sky at Cape Zanpa
◆For those who want to enjoy sightseeing and activities in Yomitan Village along with a visit to Cape Zanpa
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Okinawa
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Okinawa tours▼
Basic Information on Cape Zampa and Recommended Visit Duration
Cape Zanpa is located at the western tip of Yomitan Village, and the entire cape area is known as “Cape Zannamisaki Park" has been set up. First, let's check the location and the estimated time needed for the tour!
Cape Zanba Basic Information
Cape Zanpa is a cape jutting out into the East China Sea, featuring cliffs formed by uplifted coral reefs that stretch for about 2 km.
You're free to stroll through the park, and there's no admission fee—except for the lighthouse. There are restrooms on the grounds, so it's a great place to stop for a break during a drive.
◆ Parking: 270 spaces (free)
◆Access: 1 hour drive from Naha Airport
◆Inquiries: Zanpa Cape Recreation Area (098-958-0038)
Estimated Duration of the Tour
If you're just climbing the lighthouse and taking a short walk around the area, it should take about 30 minutes to an hour.
If you plan to take a full tour—including the Giant Shisa, the statue of Taiki, and the walking path along the cliff—it’s best to set aside about an hour to an hour and a half.
If you plan to watch the sunset, work backward to arrive 30 minutes to an hour before sunset, and set aside about two hours!
Directions to Cape Zanpa and Parking
The most convenient way to get to Cape Zanpa is by rental car. You can also get there by bus, but since it’s a bit of a walk from the nearest bus stop, be sure to plan your trip with plenty of time to spare.
It's a breeze with the shuttle service☆
▼Click here for our recommended Blue Grotto tours▼
From Naha Airport and Naha by Car
It takes about an hour by car from Naha Airport to Cape Zanpa via National Route 58 and other roads.
If you're taking the Okinawa Expressway, exit at the Ishikawa Interchange; from there, it's about a 20-minute drive (approximately 14 km) to our location. If you're staying at a hotel in Yomitan Village or heading toward Onna Village, you can easily stop by on your drive!
Click here for car rentals in Okinawa
Take the bus
If you're taking the bus, board the Yomitan Line (Routes 28 or 29) at the Naha Bus Terminal and get off at "Yomitan Bus Terminal." The ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It takes about 5 minutes by taxi from Yomitan Bus Terminal to Cape Zanpa, or about 30 minutes on foot. Since buses don’t run very frequently, be sure to check the bus schedules in advance for both your trip there and back.
parking lot
Zanpa Misaki Park has parking for 270 vehicles.Free ParkingThere are
It tends to get crowded around sunset and during long weekends, so it’s best to arrive early. It’s just a short walk from the parking lot to the lighthouse.
5 Must-See Attractions at Cape Zanpa
In addition to the lighthouse, Cape Zampa has plenty of other attractions, such as a giant shisa and statues of historical figures. Here are five spots you can explore on foot, centered around the lighthouse!
Together with Yomitan Village Tourism☆
▼Click here for recommended tours in Yomitan Village▼
Cape Zanbamisaki Lighthouse
The Zanpa Misaki Lighthouse is a white lighthouse that was first lit in 1974 and stands approximately 31 meters tall. It has also been selected as one of the “50 Best Lighthouses in Japan.”
Go insideA lighthouse you can climb to the top ofSo, please be sure to climb up and see it for yourself! Visits are suspended on days with inclement weather or when maintenance work is being performed, so please check the Tōkōkai official website for the latest visiting hours and donation amounts.
◆Visiting Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Until 5:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays from March through September) *Last admission is 20 minutes before closing.
◆Suspended: During severe weather, maintenance work, etc.
◆Inquiries: Tōkōkai, Zanpa Misaki Branch (098-958-3041)
The view from the lighthouse observation deck
At the top of the lighthouse’s spiral staircase, there’s an observation deck that opens out to the outside. Right before your eyes, the East China Sea stretches out in a 360-degree view, and at your feet, you can see the sheer cliffs and white waves!
On clear days, you can sometimes see all the way to the distant islands. It gets windy up here, so be careful not to let your hat or belongings blow away.
Zanpa Great Lion (Great Shisa)
Waiting to greet you near the parking lot is the “Zanpa Great Lion,” a massive shisa standing 8.75 meters tall.
It’s said to be the largest shisa in Japan, and when you look up at it up close, it’s truly impressive! It’s a popular spot for taking photos, so be sure to snap a picture with it.
Statue of Taiki
Near the lighthouse stands the “Taiki Statue,” which depicts a prominent figure from the Ryukyu Kingdom. The statue was erected in Heisei 20 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of Yomitan Village, among other events.
Taiki traveled to China five times as a tribute envoy from Ryukyu and returned safely each time. You can really get a sense of how Cape Zanpa served as the maritime gateway connecting Ryukyu and China.
Cliffs and Walking Trails
There’s a walking trail around the lighthouse that follows the cliff edge. The sight of white waves crashing against the rugged rocks is a truly breathtaking experience unique to Cape Zampa!
However, on the cliff, there isA place without a fenceThere are also some. On windy days, stay away from the edge of the cliff and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Sunset at Cape Zanpa! Sunset Times and Photo Spots
Since Cape Zanpa opens out to the sea to the west, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the sunset sinking below the horizon. It’s said to be the place on the main island of Okinawa where the sun sets the latest—a famous spot for watching sunsets!
The Sunset Over the Ocean All to Myself☆
▼Click here for our recommended sunset tours▼
Estimated Sunset Times by Month
[Image: Courtesy of Photo AC, etc. / alt: “The sunset sky over Cape Zanpa, bathed in orange light”]
Sunset at Cape Zampa occurs around 7:00 p.m. in the summer and around 5:00 p.m. in the winter. The approximate times around the 15th of each month are as follows:
| 月 | Estimated Sunset Time | 月 | Estimated Sunset Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Around 5:57 p.m. | July | Around 7:24 p.m. |
| February | Around 6:21 p.m. | August | Around 7:06 p.m. |
| March | Around 6:37 p.m. | September | Around 6:34 p.m. |
| April | Around 6:52 p.m. | October | Around 6:01 p.m. |
| May | Around 7:08 p.m. | November | Around 5:39 p.m. |
| June | Around 7:22 p.m. | December | Around 5:39 p.m. |
Since the time varies by a few minutes from day to day, please check the exact time for the day you plan to visit using the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan’s “Calendar Calculator” or a similar resource.
Photo Spots with Beautiful Sunset Views
[Image: Sourced from PhotoAC, etc. / alt: "Sunset photo featuring the Zanpa Misaki Lighthouse and the setting sun"]
A popular spot for taking photos is along the cliffs near the lighthouse.The Lighthouse and the SunsetIf you include it in the shot, you'll get a photo that really captures the essence of Cape Zanpa!
If you arrive 30 minutes to an hour before sunset, you can take your time enjoying the sight of the sky gradually turning orange. From fall through winter, when the air is crisp and clear, you’re more likely to see a vivid sunset.
Click here for Okinawa sunset tours
Other sunset spots on the main island of Okinawa include “Featured Sunset Spots in Okinawa" is featured in [...].
Cape Zampa at Night! The Starry Sky, City Lights, and Safety Tips for Visiting at Night
There are few city lights around Cape Zampa, so on clear nights, you can see a sky full of stars. Here are some things to keep in mind before you go at night, along with tips on how to enjoy the starry sky.
A professional will take your photo☆
▼Click here for recommended stargazing tours▼
Can I go in at night? Things to keep in mind before going at night
The lighthouse is open to visitors only during the day; it is usually not accessible at night. Since I couldn't find any official information on whether the park or parking lot closes at night,advance confirmationIt is safe to do so.
For inquiries, please contact the Zanpa Cape Recreation Area (098-958-0038). It gets pitch-black at night, so be sure to bring a flashlight and comfortable walking shoes, and avoid getting too close to the cliffs.
How to Enjoy the Starry Sky and City Lights
If you want to enjoy Cape Zanpa at night with peace of mind, take a guidedStarry sky photo touris recommended.
You can gaze at the stars while listening to explanations of the constellations, and you can even have your picture taken against the backdrop of the starry sky. It’s perfect for those who aren’t used to the dark and for families!
Other stargazing spots on the main island include “10 Best Places to View the Night Sky on Okinawa Main Island"Be sure to check that out, too."
Activities to Enjoy Around Cape Zanpa
Around Cape Zanpa, you can enjoy water activities and winter whale watching. Combine these with a visit to the cape to fully enjoy the Okinawan ocean!
Fun for the whole family☆
▼Click here for recommended marine tours▼
Snorkeling and Diving at the Blue Grotto
Located in Onna Village, Cape Maeda—about a 15-minute drive from Cape Zanpa—is a popular Okinawan “Blue CaveThere is a "+".
You can enjoy the mysterious, blue-glowing scenery inside the cave whether you're snorkeling or trying out a trial dive. We also recommend a tour that takes you to the Blue Cave in the morning and Cape Zanpa in the evening to watch the sunset!
Click here for the Okinawa Blue Cave Tour
whale watching
When winter comes, from the lighthouse and rocky shores at Cape Zampa,humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)You can sometimes see the geyser. Since you don't have to get on a boat, even those worried about getting seasick can enjoy it without any worries.
For information on when to see them and tips for observing them, see “Guide to Whale Watching at Cape Zanpa"I've summarized it here. If you want to be sure to see whales, you might want to consider a boat tour that takes you close to them."
Click here for whale-watching tours in Okinawa
Water Activities at Zanpa Beach
At Zanpa Beach, right next to the cape, you can enjoy activities such as snorkeling and water obstacle courses during the summer.
Since the water is shallow and there are lifeguards on duty,accompanied by childrenIt's popular there, too. For information on parking and facilities, see “The Complete Guide to Zanpa Beach"Check it out!"
Sightseeing, Dining, and Hotels Around Cape Zanpa
Yomitan Village, home to Cape Zanpa, boasts World Heritage-listed castle ruins, hands-on attractions, and stylish cafes. Why not spend a whole day leisurely exploring the area?
Fun Even on Rainy Days☆
▼Click here for recommended activities in Yomitan Village▼
Zanami Beach
Zanpa Beach is a white-sand beach that stretches right next to Cape Zanpa. With its crystal-clear waters and gently sloping shoreline,sea bathingThe season is bustling with families.
It's within walking distance from the cape, so be sure to take a stroll there after you've seen the lighthouse!
◆Access: 1 hour drive from Naha Airport
Ruins of Zakimi Castle
The ruins of Zakimi Castle are located about a 10-minute drive from Cape Zanpa.World Heritage (cultural, natural, etc.)This is the gusuku (castle ruins).
Built in the early 15th century, the highlight is the stone wall with its smooth curves! From the top of the castle wall, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Yomitan Village and the East China Sea.
◆Directions: About a 10-minute drive from Cape Zanpa
Experience Kingdom Murasakimura
Mura Sakura Mura is an interactive theme park that utilizes the open-air set from the NHK Taiga drama "The Winds of Ryukyu."
Amid the streets of Ryukyu, you'll find Bingata dyeing, pottery, blown glass, and otherTraditional Craft ExperienceYou can do that. There are plenty of indoor activities, so it's perfect for a rainy day!
Lunch and Cafes in Yomitan
The area around Cape Zanpa is dotted with restaurants where you can dine while enjoying the ocean view, as well as popular local eateries.
StylishOcean CafeIt's a nice idea to take a break there. When choosing a restaurant, “Yomitan's Top Lunch Picksand "A Roundup of Stylish Cafes in Yomitan"Please take a look at this!"
Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanbamisaki Resort
If you're staying at Cape Zanpa, the Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort, located right next to the cape, is a convenient choice.
Since you can walk from the hotel to the cape,Sunset and Morning WalksYou can enjoy it casually, too. For reviews and things to keep in mind, see “Reviews of Grand Mercure Okinawa Zanpa Misaki Resort" is featured in [...].
The History of Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa, known for its breathtaking views, is also a place deeply intertwined with Okinawa’s history—from the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom through the war years. Once you learn about its history, you’ll see the scenery in a whole new light.
The Origin of Place Names and Their Connection to the Ryukyu Islands
The origin of the name “Zanpa” is unclear, and there are various theories.
Cape Zanpa served as a link between the Ryukyu Kingdom and China (the Ming Dynasty)Gateway to the SeaThat was also the case. On the cape, a shrine called “Nishino-kami-no-ya,” where people once prayed for safe voyages, still stands today.
The Battle of Okinawa and Cape Zanpa
On April 1, 1945, U.S. forces began landing on the main island of Okinawa from the coast near Yomitan Village and other locations. Cape Zanpa was,The Battle of OkinawaIt is also known as the place where it all began.
Since the area was used as a U.S. military training ground for a long time after the war, the lighthouse—built in 1974—is actually relatively new. As you take in the beautiful scenery, take a moment to reflect on its history as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cape Zanpa
If you just want to climb the lighthouse and look around, it takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to visit the giant Shisa, the statue of Taiki, and the walking trail, allow an hour to an hour and a half; and if you want to stay until sunset, it’s best to set aside about two hours.
On days with severe weather, the lighthouse is closed, and the paths along the cliffs can become slippery. On rainy days, we recommend switching to indoor activities, such as craft workshops at the nearby Mura Sakura Experience Kingdom or resin art workshops in Yomitan Village.
With plenty of spots where children can have fun—such as parks with lawns and large shisa statues—it’s a popular destination for families. However, since some areas along the cliffs lack railings, be sure to keep a close eye on your children when near the edge.
summary
Cape Zampa features a lighthouse you can climb, as well asGiant Shisa...It's a popular spot in Yomitan Village known for its stunning cliffside views. If you're just sightseeing, you can see everything in about an hour, so it's easy to stop by while out for a drive.
Another attraction is that you can enjoy different views depending on the time of day—the sunset sinking below the horizon in the evening and a sky full of stars at night. Be sure to enjoy your trip to Yomitan Village to the fullest, along with the Blue Cave and the ruins of Zakimi Castle!
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.
![[February–November Only] Open to ages 4 and up! Sound Parasailing Course: Soar While Listening to Music (Includes Photo Service) (No. 116)](https://okinawatour.world-tours.jp/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/skywalker116-3-e1662853930938-825x510.jpg)
