Zanpa Cape Lighthouse stands at the tip of Zanpa Cape on the western coast of Okinawa Island. The cape is known as one of the places where you can watch the sun set over the sea for one of the last times on Okinawa Island.
Dramatic natural cliffs stretch for approximately 2 kilometers along the coast, culminating in the striking white lighthouse that rises above the blue waters of the East China Sea. The contrast between the brilliant white tower, deep blue ocean, and rugged coastline creates an impressive Okinawan landscape.
The lighthouse was constructed in 1974 and stands approximately 31 meters high. Built as a concrete white tower, its simple design creates a particularly beautiful contrast against the surrounding ocean and sky.
The lighthouse serves as an important navigation aid for vessels traveling through the surrounding waters. Its location at the end of the cape also makes it an excellent viewpoint, offering a 360-degree panorama from the observation area at the top.
Visitors who climb the stairs to the observation deck can look out across the rugged coastline, the surrounding islands, and the vast expanse of ocean. On clear days, the view is especially spectacular.
Zanpa Cape is particularly popular in the late afternoon, when the setting sun gradually sinks toward the horizon. The western-facing location provides an ideal setting for watching the changing colors of the sky and sea.
As the sun approaches the horizon, the white lighthouse becomes a striking silhouette against the warm evening sky. The combination of the lighthouse, towering cliffs, crashing waves, and sunset makes this one of the most memorable coastal landscapes in central Okinawa.
The waters around Zanpa Cape are popular for fishing and diving. Beneath the cliffs, powerful waves constantly shape the rocky shoreline, while the surrounding sea offers opportunities to experience Okinawa’s rich marine environment.
The cape itself is also enjoyable to explore on foot. Walking around the cliffs allows visitors to experience the scale of the coastline and see the waves breaking against the rocks below.
Near the cape stands a statue of Taiki, a figure associated with commerce during the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom and traditionally revered as a god of business. The statue adds a distinctive cultural and spiritual element to the otherwise rugged coastal landscape.
The combination of natural scenery and traces of Ryukyuan history gives Zanpa Cape an atmosphere that goes beyond a simple sightseeing viewpoint.
Just inland from the cliffs, Zanpa Cape Iko-no-Hiroba provides a spacious recreational area where visitors can enjoy the outdoors. Families can interact with small animals such as goats and turtles, while the expansive lawns provide plenty of room for children to run and play.
The area also includes tennis courts and basketball courts, making it an appealing destination for visitors who want to combine sightseeing with outdoor activities.
One of the most eye-catching sights is a giant shisa statue approximately 7 meters high, said to be the largest of its kind in Okinawa. The traditional shisa, a lion-like guardian figure found throughout Okinawa, adds a playful local character to the area.
Before reaching the cape, visitors will find Zanpa Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline where the clear waters and sandy shore offer a more relaxed seaside experience.
The beach provides a pleasant complement to the dramatic cliffs of the cape. Together, Zanpa Beach and the lighthouse area make it possible to enjoy both Okinawa’s gentle tropical seaside atmosphere and its more rugged coastal scenery in the same visit.
The cliffs around Zanpa Cape are exposed to strong winds and waves, so visitors should take care when walking near the edge. Stay on safe walking routes and keep a secure distance from the cliff edge, particularly on windy days.
When climbing the lighthouse, visitors should also take their time because the stairs can be steep. Hats and loose belongings should be secured when strong winds are present.
Zanpa Cape Lighthouse offers much more than a beautiful lighthouse. Here, dramatic cliffs, a vast ocean, sunset views, marine activities, recreational spaces, and traces of Ryukyuan culture come together in one destination.
Whether you come to admire the white lighthouse against the blue sea, watch the sunset from the edge of the cape, explore the coastline, or enjoy time with family at the nearby recreational park, Zanpa Cape is a memorable place to experience the natural and cultural character of Okinawa.
Free of charge
From Naha Airport, take Route 332 to Route 58 and go straight north.
Turn left at the Kina intersection in Yomitan Village, go straight on Prefectural Route 12, turn right at the Takashiho intersection, and go along Prefectural Route 6.
Turn left at the Zanba Iriguchi intersection and follow the road to Cape Zanba at the end of the road.
By Car or Rental Car
From Naha Airport, take Route 332 to Route 58 and drive straight north.
Turn left at the Yomitan Village Kina intersection, go straight on Prefectural Route 12, turn right at the Takashiho intersection, and go along Prefectural Route 6.
Turn left at the Zanba Iriguchi intersection and follow the road to Cape Zanba at the end of the road.
Take the Okinawa Expressway from the Naha IC, get off at the Okinawa Minami IC, and drive about 50 minutes on the national highway.
By bus
From Naha Bus Terminal, take No. 28 and get off at Bus Stop: Cape Samba Park.