Located at the tip of the Nemuro Peninsula, Cape Nosappu is the easternmost point of mainland Japan. You might be thinking, "Wait, isn't it the easternmost point of all of Japan?" Actually, the true easternmost point of Japan is Minamitorishima, an island in the Pacific Ocean. However, since Minamitorishima is not accessible to the general public, Cape Nosappu is known as the easternmost point we can visit on the mainland.

Here are some of the highlights of Cape Nosappu!
We hope you find this useful for planning your trip.

When you think of Cape Nosappu, the image of the Cape Nosappu Lighthouse might come to mind. Selected as one of the "50 Lighthouses of Japan," it is Hokkaido's oldest lighthouse, built in 1872 during the early Meiji era. Please note, however, that the current lighthouse was rebuilt in 1930. Additionally, a giant arch-shaped monument catches the eye of visitors.

(Photo courtesy of Nemuro City Tourism Association)

Beneath the arch, which is 35 meters wide and 13 meters high, the "Flame of Prayer" continues to burn. This monument is actually called the "Bridge of the Four Islands" and was built to pray for the return of the Northern Territories.

That's right, from Cape Nosappu, the easternmost point of the mainland, you can see the Northern Territories. Among them, the closest is Kaigara Island of the Habomai Islands, just 3.7 km away. First-time visitors might be surprised that they can see the lighthouse on Kaigara Island with their own eyes.
Also, being the easternmost point of the mainland means it's the place where you can see the sunrise earliest in Japan. For this reason, the Nemuro Tourism Association holds an event called the "Cape Nosappu First Sunrise Visit" on New Year's Day every year. Due to latitude, it's not technically the earliest sunrise in the country, but it is at least the earliest in Hokkaido. The event seems to be quite lively, with things like Hanasaki crab teppo-jiru soup being sold.

(Photo courtesy of Nemuro City Tourism Association)

In addition, Cape Nosappu is full of attractions, including the "Bokyo no Ie" (Home of Nostalgia), which exhibits materials on the Northern Territories, a monument called the "Bell of Hope," and if you look out to the sea, you might spot sea otters and seals. Above all, standing on this remote land might give you a special, profound feeling. To experience this one-of-a-kind sensation, be sure to visit Cape Nosappu when you travel to Eastern Hokkaido.

＜Interview Cooperation & Thumbnail Photo Provided by＞
Nemuro City Tourism Association
Location: Tourist Information Center, 2-10 Kowa-cho, Nemuro, Hokkaido
Phone: 0153-24-3104
Official Website: https://www.nemuro-kankou.com