Cape Sōya
Cape Sōya things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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We were fortunate to visit Cape Soya when the conditions were perfect. Sunny, cool, cloudless, and still. The island of Sakhalin is only about 45km north of this most northly point of Japan, and we could just see this Russian island in the far distance! It's exciting to stand on this point, and the drive north along the coast is absolutely beautiful and wild, but this is a sad place. The hillside above the point has an amazing view, but it's also a memorial to lives lost in that sea as a result of war and aggression, and a hope for peace. Given that the once vibrant economic and cultural exchanges between Hokkaido and Sakhalin have been suspended indefinitely (I'm writing this in September 2024), these hopes for peace appear sadly futile.
Pamela AsaiPamela Asai
00
Cape Soya stands proudly as Japan's northernmost point, marked by an iconic monument that is arguably the most frequented landmark in Wakkanai City. Visitors often capture the moment with a photograph as a memento of their journey to this symbolic location. Despite its popularity, the site tends to draw crowds. Yet, a noteworthy aspect of the experience is the admirable behavior of Japanese tourists, who demonstrate remarkable responsibility and etiquette by patiently queuing up after disembarking from their tour buses. When the weather is clear, the panoramic view from Cape Soya extends across the sea, offering a glimpse of Sakhalin, Russia, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this already captivating destination.
Neil - The Backpack AdventuresNeil - The Backpack Adventures
20
There isn't too much beyond sightseeing and some shopping in here, but it gives you a sense of achievement for having reached the Northernmost point in all of Japan, which would have been quite the adventure to get to (unless you come in by flying from Tokyo Haneda to Wakkanai Airport). It's a very cold and windy place, even more so than Wakkanai's City Centre. Prepare to bring winter wear in advance, even when going there during the Spring or Autumn months. Don't be like me and forget to bring gloves, those were probably the most important protection against the cold, especially when you want to take lots of photos around the area.
Ryan WangRyan Wang
10
We drove up to the northernmost part of Japan, and it was such an incredible journey! The drive took a little over 3 hours, and the temperature was a cool 17 degrees. The entire drive was exciting, especially along the sea. The scenery was breathtaking with strong winds and powerful ocean currents adding to the adventure. When we arrived, there weren't many tourists around, so we had a peaceful moment to ourselves. But just 10 minutes later, a bunch of tour buses pulled up, and suddenly there was a long queue of people waiting to take pictures. It added a lively buzz to the beautiful location! This place was incredible stunning.
Irene Lim (Re)Irene Lim (Re)
10
It's one of those places that was on our itinerary for Hokkaido for a long while that we just didn't do yet. Despite staying in Asahikawa, we made the 3-4 hour trek round trip here in a single day and it was a cool place to check out! We went on a Monday and it was sort of crowded. We got there around 3 pm (1500). It was foggy and cloudy so we couldn't see Russia, but nonetheless we are happy we went. This time of year it also wasn't too cold. Just windy a bit. There is a couple shops with souvenirs nearby that were nice to check out also. It's one of those things that you would probably do once and not come back.
Vinny FVinny F
50
If you're wondering, "Can I go there without having a personal car?" the answer is yes. You have two options: First, you can take a direct flight from Tokyo to Wakkanai Airport. From there, take a bus to Wakkanai Station. Once at the station, ask the bus station staff for the updated bus schedule to Cape Soya. The second option is to fly to Sapporo and then take a limited express train to Wakkanai Station. Once you arrive, follow the same steps as in the first option. It's advisable to reserve a hotel near Wakkanai so you can catch the first bus in the morning and return using the last bus of the day.
Titus EfferianTitus Efferian
00
Nearby Attractions Of Cape Sōya
Cape Soya Drift Ice Museum
Cape Soya Lighthouse
World Peace Bell
Cape Soya Drift Ice Museum
3.8
(116)Click for details
Cape Soya Lighthouse
4.1
(67)Click for details
World Peace Bell
3.9
(20)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Cape Sōya
Saihokutan
Guesthouse Almelia
Saihokutan
4.1
(205)Click for details
Guesthouse Almelia
3.8
(97)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
3 Soyamisaki, Wakkanai, Hokkaido 098-6758, Japan
Map
Phone
+81 162-23-6161
Call
Website
north-hokkaido.com
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Reviews
Overview
4.4
(3.9K reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
family friendly
Description
Cape Sōya is the northernmost point of the island of Hokkaidō, Japan and by extension the whole of Japan. It is situated in Wakkanai, Sōya Subprefecture.
attractions: Cape Soya Drift Ice Museum, Cape Soya Lighthouse, World Peace Bell, restaurants: Saihokutan, Guesthouse Almelia
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