Cape Zanpa is one of the most beautiful locations to witness the sun setting into the East China Sea. Okinawa is known for its beautiful capes, however, Cape Zanpa is one of the only capes on Okinawa Island that has an operational lighthouse and is easily accessible from Naha and surrounding villages. The rugged coastline and rustic lighthouse make an ideal setting at any time of day, however this time , I decided to visit closer to dusk to witness what was one of my personal favorite sunsets in recent memory. To access Cape Zanpa, take Route 58 north until you reach Route 6, turn left and follow the signs to Cape Zanpa.
- 1 min read
Cape Zanpa Sunset
A Beautiful Coastline, a Lighthouse & The Setting Sun
By Chris Barnes
Community writer
During a sunset, colours change every couple of minutes
The rugged coastline is beautiful in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. There are multiple observation decks along the cape
Cape Zanpa is known to be a popular local fishing spot. A local fisherman trying his luck at Cape Zanpa
Cape Zanpa's rugged coastline makes a perfect backdrop for any time of day
Locals tell me its rare to have such a glassy ocean surface.
The Zanpa coastline is extremely exposed, often being battered by waves from the East China Sea
The sun on its way down at Cape Zanpa
It's worth noting that the colours in a sunset actually get better after the sun falls behind the horizon
For those who appreciate a nice Black & White photo, sunsets still look great even without the colour
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Novriana Dewi
10 years ago
Wonderful pictures, Chris! I guess I need to put Cape Zanpa on my list for Okinawa trip now!
Thanks Novriana :) It's a beautiful spot, easily accessible, lots of parking, beautiful views, just be careful if you're climbing around on the rocks.
Thanks Shimarno. It's a great place to visit at sunset if you are in Okinawa, i highly recommend it.
Richard Flair
12 years ago
got the light perfect ..it took me years to get mine that sharp
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
2Kamenoi Hotel Aso: A Grand Nature Resort in Aso
Kumamoto - Sponsored -
3Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored -
4Ultimate Fukuoka Food Guide: Hakata Ramen, Yatai Culture & Beyond
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
5Inside Nagasaki’s Tea World with Nagasaki Ikedoki Tea Tours
Nagasaki - Sponsored -
6A Vegan Visit to Fukuoka
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
7An All-Inclusive Osaka Escape With KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
Osaka - Sponsored -
8A Spring and Summer Guide to Lake Tazawa, Complete with the Perfect Stay
Akita - Sponsored -
9Izu Kogen: Japan’s Most Dog-Friendly Destination
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
10Shopping in Ginza: 10 Unexpected Finds at Matsuya Ginza
Tokyo - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture