Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island Is Japan’s Westernmost Point! How to Get There, Certificates, and 5 Must-See Spots
What can you see at Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island?
A.
Japan's westernmost monumentHighlights include the Nishisaki Lighthouse and the last sunset in Japan. I recommend taking a commemorative photo by the monument and spending the twilight hours at the observation deck!
Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island is the westernmost point in Japan!
What You'll Learn in This Article
Irizaki on Yonaguni Island is,westernmost (tip, point, extremity, etc.) of JapanIt is a cape where monuments and a lighthouse stand, and where the sun sets last in Japan.
You'll learn everything from the top 5 highlights to how to get there, the certificate, why it's said to be "scary," and how it differs from Higashizaki.
To make sure you don't get lost on your first visit to Yonaguni Island, I'll walk you through it step by step.
◆For those interested in the monument and certificate marking Japan’s westernmost point
◆For those looking for directions or information on how to get to Nishizaki
◆ For those who are worried and wondering, “Is Nishizaki scary?” and want to know how he differs from Higashizaki
Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yonaguni Island
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Yonaguni Island tours▼
What is Irizaki on Yonaguni Island?
Basic Information on Japan's Westernmost Cape
Nishizaki is a cape jutting out from the western tip of Yonaguni Island. It is home to a monument marking Japan’s westernmost point and a lighthouse, and is also known as a famous spot for watching sunsets.
First, let's get the basics down—the location, how to pronounce the name, and other key information about the island!
If you want to explore the island's breathtaking views, this is the one to choose☆
▼Click here for recommended Yonaguni Island tours▼
How to Pronounce "Nishizaki" and Where It Is Located
Nishizaki said, “Irizaki"It is read as '', and is a cape jutting out from the western tip of Yonaguni Island. It is located south of Kubura Port, and a monument marking Japan's westernmost point stands at its tip.
The "Iri" in the name refers to sunset, while "Agari" in Higashizaki, located on the eastern side of the island, means sunrise. It's interesting how the west and east form a pair.
By car from Yonaguni Airport10 to 15 minutesSince it's so close, it's one of the easiest places to get to on the island.
One of the great things about this spot is that the monuments, lighthouses, and observation decks are all clustered together on the cape, making it easy to explore even if you’re short on time.
◆Directions: About a 10- to 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport
Why Nishizaki Is Considered "Japan's Westernmost Point"
Yonaguni Island is Japan's westernmost inhabited island; it is located about 111 km from Taiwan, which is closer than Ishigaki Island.
Nishizaki is located at the western tip of the island and is known as the place where the sun sets last in Japan.
At the very tip of the cape stands the “Westernmost Point of Japan” monument, a popular spot where many visitors stop to commemorate their trip.
Actually, there is a reef called “type of illegal loan charging 10% interest every 10 days"..." was newly designated as Japan's westernmost point in 2019.
It’s easier to remember if you think of the monument as the symbol of the cape and Tuishi as the actual westernmost point.
The population of Yonaguni Island, Japan's westernmost island, and
Tourism Highlights
According to the 2020 census, the population of Yonaguni Town was1,676 peopleThat was the case. This small island, with a circumference of about 27.5 km, is home to three villages: Sonai, Hikawa, and Kubura.
In addition to Nishizaki, other popular spots include the Higashizaki Cliffs, the Tategami Rock—the island’s symbol—and the filming locations for “Dr. Koto’s Clinic.”
At sea, you can enjoy diving to encounter hammerhead sharks in the winter, as well as tours where you can view underwater ruins from a boat.
If you want to make the most of your limited time, be sure to take advantage of guided tours!
Click here for activities and tours on Yonaguni Island
Top 5 Attractions in Nishizaki, Yonaguni Island
There are five must-see attractions in Nishizaki: the monument, the lighthouse, the observation deck, Tuishi, and Kubura Port.
Since they're all close by, it's easy to combine them into a tour.
I’ll go over the features and basic information for each one in order.
Check out these popular tours!
▼Click here for recommended Yonaguni Island tours▼
Japan's westernmost monument
The "Monument Marking Japan's Westernmost Point," located at the tip of Nishizaki, is the most famous landmark on Yonaguni Island.Photo SpotsIt is.
It's a place where you can really feel the romance of being at the westernmost cape of the westernmost island.
When you take a photo in front of the monument, the realization that you’ve made it to the very edge of Japan slowly sinks in.
Stop by at the beginning or end of your island trip and take a photo to remember it by!
We recommend keeping this, along with the certificate for the westernmost point, as a memento of your trip.
◆Directions: About a 10- to 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport / Parking available
Nishisaki Lighthouse
The Irisaki Lighthouse, standing at the very tip of the cape, is,The Westernmost Lighthouse in JapanIt is.
It was built in 1957 by the then-Ryukyu Government and was first lit on November 26 of that year.
It is considered to be the last coastal lighthouse built in Japan on a cape or along the coast.
On a clear day, you might even be able to see the outline of Taiwan in the distance from near the lighthouse.
It’s located on a small hill at the end of a gently undulating road, so let’s head there while enjoying the scenery!
By the way, the waters off Nishizaki are also known as a diving spot where, if you're lucky, you can encounter hammerhead sharks in the winter.
◆Directions: About a 10- to 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport
Nishizaki Observation Deck (Sunset Hill)
From the Nishizaki Observation Deck, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Kubura village and the cape.
If you want to see the last sunset in Japan, this is a spot you definitely shouldn't miss.
On the north side of the harbor is a hill known as “the hill where you can see Japan’s last sunset,” where you can capture the cape, the lighthouse, and the sunset all in one photo.
Especially when the days are shortFrom fall through early springI hear you can see the sun setting right next to Nishizaki from there.
However, there are no streetlights along the road to the hill, so it gets very dark after sunset.
Bring a flashlight, and once you've finished watching the sunset, let's head back early!
◆Hill with a View of the Sunset: Near 4022 Yonaguni, Yonaguni Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture (north of Kubura Port)
◆Directions: About a 10- to 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport
Tuishi (Japan's westernmost point)
Tuishi is a rocky reef located about 260 meters offshore to the northwest of Nishizaki.
It’s not Nishizaki, where the monument stands, but this Tuishi that...Japan's westernmost pointIt is considered to be a
Its name appears on the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan’s topographic maps, and it was officially designated as the westernmost point in 2019.
There are various theories about the origin of the name, such as "pointed stone" or "whetstone," but it remains unclear.
The lighthouse is also equipped with a spotlight that illuminates these reefs.
Gaze out from the cape toward the westernmost point across the sea and experience the edge of Japan!
◆Directions: About a 10- to 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport (off the coast of Nishizaki)
Kubura Port
Kubura Port is the main port on the west coast of Yonaguni Island, where ferries from Ishigaki Island arrive.
From the harbor to the Nishizaki Monument isWithin walking distanceSo, as soon as you arrive by boat, you can head straight for the westernmost point.
Near the harbor, you'll find Japan's westernmost post office and school, making this a village truly full of "westernmost" landmarks.
The coastal waters are said to have the highest marlin catch in Japan, and the area is also known for its thriving fishing industry.
Another appealing aspect of arriving at and departing from the port by boat is being able to see Nishizaki from out on the water.
◆Access: Within walking distance of the monument marking Japan’s westernmost point in Nishizaki / About a 10-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport
How to Get to Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island
The standard way to get to Nishizaki is by car or taxi from Yonaguni Airport.
There are also local buses, but be sure to plan your trip with plenty of time to spare! Let’s also check the estimated travel times.
If you want to tour the islands efficiently, this is the way to go☆
▼Click here for recommended Yonaguni Island tours▼
Getting there by car or taxi from the airport
From Yonaguni Airport to Nishizaki,Cars and TaxisIt takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
The island is small enough to drive around in just an hour, so it's perfect for a scenic drive.
There are car rental services and taxis near the airport, so you can head out right after you arrive. During peak season, it’s best to book early to be on the safe side.
On the roads on the island, there are “Texas Gate"..." can be found at the entrance to Nishizaki and other locations, so please be careful when passing by.
If you're not confident about driving, one option is to choose a tour that takes you around the island.
Click here for tours of Yonaguni Island
By Bus or on Foot
There is a municipal bus service on the island, and the stop closest to Nishizaki isKubura Bus StopIt is.
It is estimated to take about 30 minutes on foot from the Kubura Bus Stop to the Nishizaki Monument.
Since there are only a limited number of buses, be sure to check the schedule in advance.
The path to the cape has a series of gentle ups and downs, so it’s a good idea to bring a hat and something to drink.
If you arrive at Kubura Port by boat, it’s easy—you can just walk straight to the monument.
The Certificate Marking Japan's Westernmost Point and the Truth Behind "Scary"
If you visit Nishizaki, you’ll probably want to get the certificate proving you’ve reached the westernmost point of Japan, right?
Here, we’ll explain the details of the certificate, why it’s often described as “scary,” and how it differs from Higashizaki. Let’s also go over some key points for enjoying it safely!
If it's your first time on Yonaguni Island, this is the one!
▼Click here for recommended Yonaguni Island tours▼
Where can I get a certificate stating that I’m at the westernmost point of Japan?
A popular souvenir from the trip is the “Certificate of Japan’s Westernmost Point,” which serves as proof that you’ve reached the westernmost point of Japan,Proof of Japan's Westernmost Point".
The Gift Shop at Yonaguni AirportIt is described as being available for issuance there.
Since the location, hours, and fees are subject to change, it’s a good idea to check with the Yonaguni Town Tourism Association (0980-87-2402) in advance.
If you take a photo in front of the monument and pick up your certificate at the airport, you’ll have a tangible memento of your visit to the westernmost point.
Be sure to allow plenty of time so you can stop by before and after your flight!
Is Nishizaki Scary? Things to Watch Out for: Wind, Cliffs, and Sunset
Some people may worry, asking, “Is Nishizaki scary?” but it’s not a dangerous place.
However, since Nishizaki is a cape jutting out into the sea, its topography makes it particularly susceptible to strong sea breezes.
Stay away from areas outside the railings or near the edge of cliffs, and watch your step as you walk.
Also, there are no streetlights along the road to Sunset Hill, andAfter sunsetIt gets very dark.
Perhaps the impression of "fear" comes from the strong winds, the darkness, and the unique atmosphere of this remote place.
During typhoon season or on days with strong winds, it’s important to make the call to adjust your plans rather than push yourself too hard.
Differences from Higashizaki
Agari-zaki is a cape located at the eastern tip of Yonaguni Island, andFamous Sunrise SpotsIt is.
It’s easier to remember if you think of Nishizaki as “sunset” and Higashizaki as “sunrise.”
The Higashizaki Lighthouse stands on Higashizaki, and Yonaguni horses and cattle graze in the surrounding pastures. On a clear day, you can even see Iriomote Island in the distance.
It's only about a 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport, so it's convenient to visit along with Nishizaki—another great perk.
Please keep your distance from horses and cows, and watch your step to avoid horse manure as you stroll around!
Click here for horseback riding and tours on Yonaguni Island
◆Directions: About a 15-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport / Parking available
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island
From fall, when the days are short, through early spring, the sun sets right next to Nishizaki. However, there are no streetlights along the path to Sunset Hill, so it gets very dark after sunset. Since sunset times vary by season, be sure to check the time in advance and bring a flashlight so you can return while it’s still light out.
The distance from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan is about 111 km. On clear days, you may be able to see the outline of Taiwan from the Nishizaki Observation Deck or near the lighthouse. However, since it isn’t always visible, we recommend planning your visit for a clear day when the air is crisp.
Yes, you can get there. From Yonaguni Airport, a taxi is the most convenient option, but you can also take the local bus to the Kubura bus stop and walk from there. If you arrive by boat at Kubura Port, the monument is within walking distance. Another option is to take a tour that covers the island.
summary
Nishizaki on Yonaguni Island is,Japan's westernmost monumentIt is a cape with breathtaking views where you can enjoy the sunset—the last to set in Japan—as well as the lighthouse.
If you also visit Tuishi and Kubura Port, you'll get a full taste of the charms of this westernmost island.
The easiest way to get there is by car or taxi. Be sure to have your documents ready for inspection at the airport, and don't forget to prepare for strong winds and low light.
Make the most of the tour and enjoy your last sunset in Japan!
▼Click here for related articles▼
![[2023] How to Get from Ishigaki Island to Yonaguni Island? We’ll Cover Fares, Schedules, and Great Deals!](https://yonagunitour.world-tours.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/3028633_m-825x510.jpg)
