Cape Nosappu - Hokkaido

Cape Nosappu (納沙布岬) is a cape located at the easternmost point of Japan. It is located in Nosappu, Nemuro City, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Cape Nosappu

Cape Nosappu Details

Cape Nosappu is the easternmost point of mainland Japan, where the sun rises earlier than almost anywhere else in the country. Known for its breathtaking views, historical significance, and proximity to the Northern Territories, this coastal cape is a must-visit destination in eastern Hokkaido. With its iconic lighthouse, Ainu cultural roots, cool climate, and unique sunrise events, Cape Nosappu offers something for everyone—from history buffs and early risers to photographers and marathon runners.

Cape Nosappu - Nemuro City, Hokkaido Prefecture

Ainu Origins: The Meaning Behind the Name “Nosappu”

The name “Nosappu” comes from the Ainu word “not-sam,” meaning “next to a cape.” Originally, the area was called “Notsiyahu,” and like many places in Hokkaido, the name reflects the region’s indigenous Ainu heritage. Nemuro itself has many place names rooted in the Ainu language, and exploring these names offers travelers a deeper understanding of Hokkaido’s cultural history.

Cape Nosappu as seen from the "Return the Northern Territories" Monument area

Japan’s First Light: Where the Sunrise Happens First

Cape Nosappu sits at 145°49′01″ east longitude, making it one of the earliest places to witness sunrise in Japan, particularly on approximately 310 days a year, the most for any flat area in the country. This has earned Nemuro the nickname "The City Closest to the Morning Sun."

Cape Nosappu's parking area

Although Cape Inubozaki in Chiba sees the absolute earliest sunrise on New Year’s Day due to its lower latitude, Cape Nosappu remains the most popular spot in Hokkaido to welcome the first sunrise of the year. Thousands of visitors gather here annually for the “First Sunrise of the Year” (Hatsu Hinode), a magical moment that symbolizes new beginnings.

The Historic Lighthouse: Hokkaido’s Oldest and First Western-Style Lighthouse

Cape Nosappu Lighthouse

Built in July 1872, the Cape Nosappu Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Hokkaido and the first Western-style lighthouse constructed in the region. Due to the area's frequent fog and heavy marine traffic between Japan and the United States during the Meiji period, the lighthouse played a critical role in maritime navigation. It continues to be one of the Cape’s most iconic structures, symbolizing safety and history against a dramatic coastal backdrop.

Views of the Northern Territories

One of Cape Nosappu’s most unique features is its unobstructed view of the Northern Territories, including Shikotan, Kunashiri, Etorofu, and the Habomai Islands. These islands, currently administered by Russia, remain subject to ongoing territorial discussions with Japan. Visitors can view these islands on clear days, and buoys marking maritime boundaries float offshore as a visible reminder of the region’s geopolitical significance.

"Return the Northern Territories" Monument

"Return the Northern Territories" Monument

The four islands that are part of Japan's Northern Territories can be seen here

A Symbol of Hope: The “Bridge to the Four Islands” Monument

Located within Nokyo-no-Misaki Park near Cape Nosappu is the “Bridge to the Four Islands” (四島のかけ橋), a powerful monument erected in September 1981. This symbolic structure represents Japan’s enduring hope for the return of the Northern Territories—Shikotan, Kunashiri, Etorofu, and the Habomai Islands—which can be seen from the cape on clear days.

Photos of the Bridge to the Four Islands Monument

Bridge to the Four Islands Monument

The Bridge to the Four Islands Monument stands as a tribute to the collective will of the Japanese people to reclaim these islands, reflecting both historical memory and national sentiment. As one of the most poignant features of the area, it serves as a reminder of the region’s complex geopolitical history, making a visit to Cape Nosappu not only visually breathtaking but also deeply meaningful.

A Cool Escape in Summer

Unlike the sweltering temperatures on Japan’s main island, Cape Nosappu stays cool even in midsummer. In August, the average high is just 20.2°C, making it the coolest spot in the country during this season. However, due to frequent fog and sea breezes, it's advisable to bring a jacket or long sleeves—even in summer.

Northern Territories Cape Nosappu Marathon (Late August)

Japan’s easternmost marathon, this event offers runners a scenic course overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk and the Northern Territories. Participants are treated to a hot bowl of Hanasaki crab soup at the finish line, making this not just a race, but a true Hokkaido experience.

Monuments and other things to see on Cape Nosappu

Japan's easternmost post

Hoppokan

The Monument of Ichiro Suetsugu

The Hashimoto Tokuju Poetry Monument

Sakata Ayako Song Monument

The Bell of Hope

On a clear day, you would see parts of the Northern Territories here

Kansei Uprising Japanese Victims' Memorial Monument, Grave of 71 Untimely Deaths,  Return the Island Monuments

"Return the Northern Territories" Monument

Return All of the Kuril Islands and Karafuto – Northern Defenders

For the Flame of Prayer

The Path of Hope

The Bell of Hope

Songs Inspired by Cape Nosappu

Cape Nosappu has inspired several Japanese songs over the years. Notable examples include:

• “Ninjo Misaki” by the duo Tunnels, famous for the line “Cape Nosappu is a cape of human kindness~♪”
• “Nosappu Miren” by Kenichi Mikawa, performed at the 55th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen to mark his 40th anniversary as a singer

These songs reflect the emotional and cultural connection that many people feel toward this windswept and meaningful place.

Team Nicerio visits Cape Nosappu

My family and I visited Cape Nosappu for the first time on September 18, 2023, during the third day of our “3-Day Respect for the Aged Road Trip.” This visit also marked my 686th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Cape Nosappu was the highlight of our trip. Before this visit, we had already visited Cape Soya, the northernmost tip of Japan, leaving us with Cape Shirakami in the town of Matsumae as the Southernmost point of Hokkaido. The westernmost point is inaccessible to tourists as it is located on Oshima Island, which is also in the town of Matsumae.

Cape Nosappu Admission Fee

It’s FREE to park and explore Cape Nosappu. Make sure not to go beyond the protective barriers, though.

Cape Nosappu Operating Hours

Cape Nosappu is open 24/7. However, some facilities, like the Nemuro City Northern Territory Museum, are open from 9 AM to 5 PM and are closed on Wednesdays.

Why visit Cape Nosappu?

If you're chasing the first light of dawn, admiring historic lighthouses, exploring Ainu heritage, or seeking a refreshing summer escape, Cape Nosappu offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As the easternmost point of Japan, it’s where natural beauty, cultural depth, and political significance come together, making it one of the most unique and meaningful travel destinations in Hokkaido.

Getting to Cape Nosappu

 

From Nemuro Station, head to the Ekimae Terminal. From there, take the Nosappu Line bound for Cape Nosappu (Nosappu Misaki), with stops such as “Siritsu Byouin,” “Ariiso Eigyousho,” and “Nemuro Koukou,” operated by the Nemuro Kotsu Bus Company. Get off at the Nosappu Misaki bus stop.

Travel time: 51 minutes

Fare: 1,090 yen

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