Cape Nosappu, located at the tip of the Nemuro Peninsula, is the easternmost point of the mainland. You may be thinking, "Wait, isn't that the easternmost point of Japan?", but in fact the easternmost point of Japan is Minamitorishima, an island in the Pacific Ocean. However, since Minamitorishima is not open to the public, Cape Nosappu is said to be the easternmost point of the mainland, in the sense that it is the easternmost point that we can visit. We've put together a list of the highlights of Cape Nosappu! Please use this as a reference for your sightseeing. When you think of Cape Nosappu, many people probably think of a photo of Cape Nosappu Lighthouse. This lighthouse has been selected as one of the "50 Best Lighthouses in Japan" and is the oldest lighthouse in Hokkaido, built in 1872, in the early Meiji period. However, please note that the current lighthouse was renovated in 1930. There is also a huge arch-shaped symbol that catches the eye of visitors.

(Photo courtesy of Nemuro City Tourism Association)

The "Fire of Prayer" burns continuously beneath the 35-meter wide, 13-meter tall arch. This statue is actually called the "Bridge of the Four Islands" and was built to pray for the return of the Northern Territories. Yes, you can see the Northern Territories from Cape Nosappu, the easternmost point of the mainland. The closest island, Kaigara Island in the Habomai Islands, is only 3.7 km away. First-time visitors may be surprised to see the lighthouse built on Kaigara Island. Also, being the easternmost point of the mainland means that it is the place where you can see the earliest sunrise in Japan. For that reason, every New Year's Day, the Nemuro Tourist Association holds an event called "Cape Nosappu First Visit". Due to the latitude, it is not the earliest first sunrise in the country, but it is at least the earliest first sunrise in Hokkaido. It seems to be quite popular, with Hanasaki crab soup being sold.

(Photo courtesy of Nemuro City Tourism Association)

Cape Nosappu is full of other things to see, including the "House of Nostalgia," which displays materials related to the Northern Territories, and the "Bell of Hope" monument. If you look out to sea, you'll spot sea otters and seals. Above all, you'll feel a special emotion when you step out onto the edge of the ocean. If you're traveling in eastern Hokkaido, be sure to stop by Cape Nosappu to experience this one-of-a-kind feeling. <Interview cooperation and thumbnail photo provided> Nemuro City Tourism Association Location: Tourist Information Center, 2-10 Kowacho, Nemuro, Hokkaido Phone: 0153-24-3104 Official website: https://www.nemuro-kankou.com