Candle Rock - Hokkaido

Candle Rock (ローソク岩) is a unique-looking rock formation protruding 500 meters from the coast. It is located at Oki, Shiomicho in the town of Yoichi, Yoichi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Candle Rock

Candle Rock Details

Rising 43 meters above the waves and standing proudly about 500 meters off the coast of Yoichi in Hokkaido, Candle Rock is a natural sea stack with a dramatic silhouette that has captivated locals and travelers alike. 

Candle Rock - Yoichi town, Hokkaido Prefecture

Formed from pyroxene andesite hyaloclastite—lava that rapidly cooled underwater—this brittle rock formation has experienced several collapses over the centuries. A major collapse in the 1930s left it in its current iconic shape: a tall, tapering spindle that looks like a candle melting into the sea.

Like a True Candle

True to its name, Candle Rock seems to glow when the sun dips low on the horizon. During sunset, or on foggy, overcast days, the rock's solitary outline becomes even more striking—like a candle burning in the ocean mist. It's no surprise that this unique formation has inspired legends among the Ainu and local fishing communities. The surrounding waters, once called Sengoku Basho, were historically a prime herring fishing ground.

Photos of Candle Rock

Today, Candle Rock is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers searching for the raw, untamed beauty of Hokkaido’s rugged coastline. While there’s no official viewing area or parking lot, many travelers stop along the roadside to take in the stunning view. It’s a brief but unforgettable stop along the scenic route through the Shakotan Peninsula—perfect for those road-tripping through western Hokkaido.

Travel Tip

Candle Rock during the sunset

For the most breathtaking photos, time your visit around golden hour. The rock’s flame-like appearance is especially magical when bathed in the warm hues of a coastal sunset.

Team Nicerio visits Candle Rock

My family and I visited Candle Rock on October 8, 2023, the second day of our 3-day “Sports Day 2023” road trip. It also happened to be my 706th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. There’s nothing much to do here but admire the unique beauty of the rock and enjoy the view.

Candle Rock Admission Fee

Visiting Candle Rock is completely FREE, and so is parking—though there aren’t any designated parking spots. For the best view, head to Shimadomari Fishing Port.

Candle Rock Operating Hours

Candle Rock is open 24/7.

Why Visit Candle Rock?

Candle Rock is a must-see if you're traveling along the Shakotan Peninsula. Its unique shape, resembling a tall melting candle, makes it one of Hokkaido’s most striking natural landmarks. The rock looks especially stunning during sunset or when surrounded by sea mist, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. Steeped in local legends from the Ainu and fishing communities, it also holds cultural significance. Although there’s no official viewing area, many visitors stop by the roadside to take in the view. It’s a quick, easy stop that adds something special to any scenic drive through Yoichi and the western coast of Hokkaido.

Getting to Candle Rock

By car

There’s no official parking lot, but you can park in any free space at Shimadomari Fishing Port. From there, you can look for a spot to view and take a photo of Candle Rock.

By bus

From Yoichi Station, make your way to the Yoichi Eki-mae bus stop and board the #20 Shakotan Line (Bikuni-bound) bus operated by Chuo Bus Company. Get off at the Shiomichi bus stop and walk approximately 250 meters to reach the Shidomari Fishing Port.

Travel time: 25 minutes

Fare: 490 yen

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