Cape Zanpa
Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa: Okinawa's Rugged Coastal Majesty
Experience Okinawa's raw beauty at Cape Zanpa: dramatic cliffs, panoramic views, and a historic lighthouse await!
Cape Zanpa, a scenic coastal destination on Okinawa's western edge, features dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and panoramic ocean views. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers, offering walking paths, a small park, and nearby Zanpa Beach.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Cape Zanpa
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-7 pm
Tuesday
10 am-7 pm
Wednesday
10 am-7 pm
Thursday
10 am-7 pm
Friday
10 am-7 pm
Saturday
10 am-7 pm
Sunday
10 am-7 pm
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Getting There
Bus
From Naha Bus Terminal, take bus route 28 or 29 to the 'Cape Zanpa' bus stop. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. From the bus stop, it's about a 5-minute walk to the cape. Bus fare is approximately ¥1,000-¥1,300. Alternatively, take the Limousine Bus B from Naha Bus Terminal to Royal Hotel Okinawa Zanpa Misaki, then walk 15 minutes to the cape. This bus takes about 80 minutes. The airport limousine bus also stops at Royal Hotel Okinawa Zanpa Misaki; the bus fare is between ¥1400-1500. Note: There is no direct bus transportation to the Cape, but visitors can take a bus from Naha terminal to Yomitan and then walk for 3 KM to the Cape.
Car
From Naha, take Route 58 north towards Yomitan. Transfer to Route 6 or 12 and head north until you reach the cape. The drive takes approximately 42 minutes and covers about 32 km. From Kadena Air Base, exit Kadena Gate 1 and turn right onto Route 58. Drive 6.5 kilometers and turn left onto Route 6. Drive 10 kilometers, following the signs for Cape Zanpa. Parking is free at Zanpa Resort Activity Park. Parking is also available on a first-come, first-served basis for guests staying at the Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort.
Taxi
A taxi from Naha to Cape Zanpa takes approximately 42 minutes and costs between ¥7,000 and ¥9,000.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the rugged rocks and climbing the lighthouse.
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Visit during sunset for the most stunning views, but bring a windproof jacket as the sea breeze can be strong.
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Check the lighthouse operating hours, as they may vary seasonally and it may close due to bad weather.
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Explore the Zanpa Misaki Recreation Plaza for restaurants, souvenir shops, and a giant Shisa statue.
Discover more about Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa (Zanpa-misaki) is located on the west coast of Okinawa, approximately 30 km north of Naha. The cape is known for its rugged beauty, with coral reef cliffs stretching for about 2 kilometers and reaching heights of 30 meters. The area offers walking paths, a playground, and the Zanpa Misaki Recreation Plaza with restaurants and shops.
The Zanpa Lighthouse, constructed in 1974, stands at the tip of the cape. For a small fee (¥300 for adults, ¥100 for children), visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the East China Sea and surrounding islands. The view from the top showcases unique volcanic rock formations, the blue sea, and green vegetation.
Cape Zanpa also has historical significance. In March 1945, US troops occupied the Kerama Islands and aimed for landing points south of Cape Zanpa, initiating the Battle of Okinawa.
Other attractions near the parking lot include the Zanpa Misaki Recreation Plaza, which features one of Okinawa's largest Shisa statues, restaurants, and shops. There is also a statue of Taiki, who initiated trade with China.
A brief summary to Cape Zanpa
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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