SPOT
Cape Soya (Monument of Japan's Northernmost Point)
Cape Soya is the northernmost point of Hokkaido Island. From here, you can see the silhouette of Sakhalin in the distance. The "Monument of Japan's Northernmost Point" is located at the tip of Cape Soya, at 45 degrees 31 minutes 22 seconds north latitude, truly at the very top of Japan. The monument is designed as a triangular pyramid, shaped like one facet of the North Star, a symbol of the northern country. The letter "N" in the center of the tower represents "North," and the circular shape on the pedestal symbolizes "peace and cooperation." There is also a statue of the explorer Rinzo Mamiya, and many tourists visit this memorial spot for its magnificent views.
Due to the widening of National Route 238 and other factors, making the monument less visible from car windows, and to expand parking space, relocation work was carried out in 1988 (Showa 63), moving it about 20 meters offshore. Until then, the "Monument of Japan's Northernmost Point" was 4.53 meters high, in reference to its latitude, but it was rebuilt to be significantly larger, as it is today.
Many tourists from all over Japan visit this "top of Japan." Furthermore, souvenir shops, accommodations, and restaurants line the area around the "Monument of Japan's Northernmost Point," creating a lively atmosphere during the tourist season.
Fee
Free
parking lot
Available
Location
Monument of Japan's Northernmost Point, Soya Misaki, Wakkanai (稚内市宗谷岬 日本最北端の地の碑)
Access
・Approximately 50 minutes by bus from JR Wakkanai Station, get off at "Soya Misaki"
・Approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Wakkanai Station
※Information is current as of October 2024.
※Information may change thereafter, so please check official websites for details.


