Nossapu Cape (Nosappu Misaki)

A cape in Nemuro, Hokkaido, known as the easternmost point of Japan’s main islands. It’s famous as one of the earliest places in Japan to see the sunrise, and especially on New Year’s Day, many people visit from all over the country to witness Japan’s earliest first sunrise of the year.

At the tip of the cape stands the “Nossapu Cape Lighthouse,” Hokkaido’s oldest Western-style lighthouse, built in 1872. From here, you can also see the “Kaigarajima Lighthouse” in the Northern Territories, “Suisho Island” in the Habomai Islands, and the mountains of “Kunashiri Island.”

The area around the cape is maintained as “Bokyo no Misaki Park,” with plenty to see. In the park, you’ll find the “Northern Territories Museum,” which displays materials and panels about the four islands, as well as the monument “Bridge to the Four Islands,” dedicated to prayers for the return of the Northern Territories and for peace.