Rakkoshi Cape

Rakkoshi Cape juts out into the Pacific Ocean from the base of the Nemuro Peninsula in southern Nemuro, Hokkaido. It’s surrounded by steep cliffs, with pristine nature spread out all around. Counted as one of the “Nemuro Top 10 Scenic Spots,” the cape offers dynamic views of sheer cliffs and roaring waves.

At the tip of the cape stands a striking red-and-white two-tone lighthouse, and the path to it runs through a forest zone thick with Sakhalin spruce and other trees. In the wetlands within the forest, you can also see Sakai azalea, designated as a National Natural Monument. Sakai azalea grows naturally only here at Rakkoshi Cape in Japan, and typically blooms with delicate reddish-purple flowers around mid-May.

Most of the cape is designated as a nature conservation area, and vehicles are not allowed to enter to help protect the environment. Head to the lighthouse on the boardwalk. It’s Approx. 2 km from the parking lot to the lighthouse, and the walk takes Approx. 20 minutes. There are no shops or vending machines nearby, so bring drinks and anything else you may need.