Cape Sata Lighthouse: Japan's Southern Sentinel
Discover panoramic views and maritime history at Cape Sata Lighthouse, the southernmost point of mainland Japan, within Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park.
Perched on the southernmost tip of mainland Japan within Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, the Cape Sata Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into Japan's maritime history. Designed by Richard Henry Brunton, this historic lighthouse stands as a sentinel, watching over the Osumi Strait.
A brief summary to Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.
- 417 Satamagome, Minamiosumi, Satamagome, Kimotsuki District, Kagoshima, 893-2604, JP
- +8199-805-1002
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:15 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the 20-minute walk from the parking area to the lighthouse and observatory.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the coastline, Yakushima, and Tanegashima islands.
- Look for the hidden heart marks at Misaki Shrine along the promenade.
- Visit the Sata Misaki Tourist Information Center for free Wi-Fi and multilingual guidance.
Getting There
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Driving
From Kagoshima Airport, the drive to Cape Sata is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The most direct route involves taking the expressway, but a more scenic option is to follow Route 10 along the coast towards Kirishima, then Route 220, followed by Route 68, and finally Route 566 to the Cape Sata parking lot. Car rentals are available at Kagoshima Airport. Parking is available at the Cape Sata Entrance Plaza. Tolls may apply on the expressway. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Access via public transport is limited. One option involves taking a train from Kagoshima to Ibusuki, then a car ferry from Yamagawa Sambashi to Nejime Port, followed by a bus or taxi to Minamiosumi. From there, local buses or taxis can be used to reach Cape Sata, but schedules may be infrequent. A more convenient option might be to take a bus from Kagoshima to Nejime, and then a taxi to Cape Sata. Bus fares from Kagoshima to Nejime are around ¥3,000 - ¥4,000, and taxi fares from Nejime to Cape Sata are approximately ¥4,000 - ¥5,000.
Discover more about Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.
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