tourism 2023.12.03

Outstanding view from the top! Great panoramic view spot! “Zanpa Misaki”

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Writer

木内清佳

Born in Tokyo. Fascinated by Okinawan music and the ocean, he found himself living in Okinawa for more than 20 years. After working as a diving instructor, he now manages several childcare facilities. She aims to nurture "wild" children who are strong in mind and body, and is engaged in conveying the joy of the Okinawan sea to children.

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A place loved by both locals and tourists

“Zanpa Misaki Park” located in Yomitan village in central Okinawa main island

This area has been designated as the Okinawa Coastal Quasi-National Park, and is a natural scenic spot representative of subtropical Okinawa.

It is a famous place for diving, as you have to walk forever on the rugged Ryukyu limestone rocky area next to the lighthouse, so it is a good point for experienced divers with physical strength, but there are many divers who are fascinated by the dynamic underwater topography. It’s a good spot to see big creatures.

It is also a popular spot for anglers, but it is not suitable for beginners as fishing is done from the top of a cliff. There is also a place of worship, and it is a place that is cherished not only by tourists but also by locals.

Let’s experience the roundness of the earth

The pure white lighthouse towering against the blue sky is picturesque on its own, but for first-timers, we recommend the spectacular 360 degree view from the top of the lighthouse!

When the weather is nice, you can also see the Kerama Islands and Ie Island. If you’re lucky, you might even see a turtle coming up to the water’s surface to breathe.

The sight of the sometimes rough waves crashing against the 30m high cliff that stretches for 2km is a sight to behold.

You will be able to experience the vastness and power of nature.

This lighthouse is approximately 31 meters high and is the tallest lighthouse in Okinawa.

If you think of the huge panoramic view at the end of the 99 steps, it’s worth the climb!

The end of the stairs has a steep ladder-like shape, so it is better to wear pants instead of a skirt. Also, heels are not recommended.

There is also a monument statue of Taiki, a man from Yomitan who brought prosperity through trade, in the park. His time was in 1373, during the Ryukyu Dynasty, when he became the first tributary envoy to China as a representative of King Satto, and since then he traveled to China five times, and has been passed down as a god of business.

Parlor Kinjo has been around for a long time and has been a place of relaxation for tourists.
We also have light snacks that are unique to Yomitan, such as sweet potato soft serve ice cream, zenzai, and hamburgers.

How about taking a break after walking around the park?

A huge and impressive shisha lion dog that stands out!

Another famous thing in the park is the Zanpa Daishi.
The height is a whopping 8m75cm!!

It’s a great spot for photos, but if you try to take a picture of the entire lion, it will look too small.

The impressive large lion was created in 1985 by Yomitan-born sculptor Minoru Kinjo, with the aim of passing on to future generations the diplomatic culture of Yomitan Village, which flourished through trade with China, and was created by over 1,000 villagers.

In addition to the walking area next to the lighthouse, Cape Zanpa Park has a spacious open space with lawns and play equipment, making it a place where you can relax for a day. There is also a shower room in the central facility.

Sunset time is also a blissful moment

The most recommended spot is the pristine, untouched beach next to the park parking lot! There are many sandy beaches that are like small private beaches sandwiched between rocky areas, and there are many entrances here and there.

It’s exciting to pass through the bushes and trees, but beyond that you’ll find yourself in paradise.

Feeling the pleasant sea breeze and listening to the sound of the waves, it is a blissful time to relax.

Both the cobalt blue ocean during the day and the sunset when the sun sparkles on the water are beautiful.