Background

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.

4.4

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.

  • 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.
widget icon

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

Unlock the Best of Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.

Cape Sata Lighthouse, located in the Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, marks the southernmost point of mainland Japan. Situated on the Osumi Peninsula in Minamiosumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea, and on clear days, the islands of Yakushima and Tanegashima can be seen on the horizon. The original lighthouse, designed by Scottish engineer Richard Henry Brunton, was built in 1871 during the Meiji era. Brunton, who designed 26 lighthouses in Japan, was commissioned by the Meiji government to help create lighthouses that would enable foreign ships to sail to and from Japan safely. The original cast iron lighthouse was destroyed in 1945 during World War II, but a concrete replica was constructed in 1950 and electrified in 1952. Visitors can reach the lighthouse via a scenic promenade from the Cape Sata Entrance Plaza. The walk includes a 150-meter tunnel and passes by Misaki Shrine, known for its hidden heart marks and its unique setting amidst tropical cycad trees. The area around Cape Sata features subtropical plants, and wild monkeys can sometimes be spotted. The former restaurant has been converted into an observation deck providing amazing views of the lighthouse and surrounding area.

Popular Experiences near Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.

Popular Hotels near Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park Special Protection Zone.Cape Sata Lighthouse.

Select Currency