Ishigaki Island - Kannonzaki Lighthouse
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Ishigaki Island, the “Kannon-zaki Lighthouse (Ryukyu Kannon-zaki Lighthouse)—a solitary, pure-white, square lighthouse—stands on a cape offering breathtaking views of Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, and Iriomote Island.”
It is Ishigaki Island’s premier sunset spot, with minimal light pollution,It's also a popular spot for stargazing.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide from a local’s perspective—covering everything from the history and origin of the name of Kannonzaki Lighthouse to its highlights and ways to enjoy the area, how to get there by car, bus, or rental bike, and important things to know before you visit.
| Spot Name | Kanon-zaki Lighthouse (Ryukyu Kanon-zaki Lighthouse) |
|---|---|
| Location | Shinkawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture (View Map) |
| Directions (by Car) | About a 15-minute drive from downtown Ishigaki; about a 20-minute drive from Ishigaki Port |
| Directions (Bus) | From the bus terminal, take Route 9 ("Kabira Resort Line") for about 20 minutes and get off at "Tojin-haka." |
| parking lot | Available (free; about 10 spaces / Use the Tojinbo parking lot when full) |
| Restrooms and Dining Areas | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| Tour Hours | Open to Visitors |
About the Kannonzaki Lighthouse
The Kannonzaki Lighthouse is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Ishigaki,Fusaki BeachnearKannonzakiIt is a lighthouse standing there.
Its official name is “Ryukyu Kannon-zaki Lighthouse.”
The stone pillar in front of the lighthouse is inscribed with the characters “Ryukyu Kannon-zaki Lighthouse,” serving as a reminder of the history of the U.S. military occupation.
Because it's built on a hill, it offers a panoramic view of the surrounding ocean, beaches, and even the outlying islands—truly a spot with breathtaking views.
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Ishigaki Island.
Highlights and Charms of the Kannon-zaki Lighthouse
Ishigaki Island's Best Sunset Spot
When it comes to the Kannonzaki Lighthouse, the sunset is definitely the highlight.
The beauty of the sunset as the sun dips below the horizonIt is known for its stunning 180-degree panoramic view, where you can enjoy the sunset on clear days.
This is actually the only place where you can easily enjoy an authentic sunset near downtown Ishigaki.
February, in particular, is considered the best time of year to see the sunset sink beautifully into the horizon.
Star-gazing Spots with Minimal Light Pollution
Although the Kannonzaki Lighthouse is best known for its sunset views, actually...It's also an excellent spot for stargazingIt is.
Ishigaki Island is known as “Star Island” and was the first area in Japan to be designated as a starlight reserve (Dark Sky Place).
Various stargazing tours are also held in the area around the Kannonzaki Lighthouse.
Click here for details on night tours, such as stargazing and night safaris ↓
Instagram-worthy photo spots
The sight of a pure white, square lighthouse standing alone amid the greenery makes for a very photogenic scene.
With the blue sea and sky as a backdrop, this is a perfect photo spot where you can capture a lighthouse with a shape you don't often see elsewhere.
How to Get to Kanon-zaki Lighthouse
Kanon-zaki is located about a 15-minute drive from the city center and about a 20-minute drive from the remote islands terminal.
Take National Route 390 and Prefectural Route 211 westward for about 25 minutes.
◆From the Remote Islands Terminal (by car)
Drive straight along Prefectural Route 79 with the ocean on your left for about 20 minutes.
◆By public bus
From the bus terminal, take Route 9, the “Kabira Resort Line,” and get off at the “Tojin-haka” bus stop after about 20 minutes. It’s located on the coast, a few minutes’ walk in the direction the bus was traveling.
◆By rental bike
It's about 5 km west of the city center. If you have enough time, you can also get there by bike.
About Parking
The area around the parking lot is a green space, and there is free parking for just over 10 cars.
To reach the lighthouse on the hill, follow the slope up from the park.
Since there are only a limited number of scheduled buses on Ishigaki Island, attractions on the island—including the Kannonzaki Lighthouse—If you want to efficiently visit tourist attractions, renting a car is recommended.It is.
Important Things to Know Before You Visit
Although this is a scenic spot you can easily drop by, we've put together some tips that will give you peace of mind before you visit.
Make sure to take care of this in advance, such as in the city.
◆You cannot enter the lighthouse.
Although you can't climb the lighthouse, you can get right up close to it and take a look.
◆The walking path may be overgrown with grass
The walking path leading to the coastline may be overgrown with grass. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
◆The scenery depends heavily on the weather.
On cloudy or rainy days, you might not be able to see the silhouettes of Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, and Iriomote Island, or the sunset. Be sure to plan your visit for a sunny day.
Estimated time: 30 minutes to 1 houror so. If you're planning to catch the sunset, arrive 30 minutes before sunset so you can take your time enjoying the changing colors of the evening sky.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Kanon-zaki Lighthouse
The Kannonzaki Lighthouse is located west of the city center, and there are several other attractions scattered throughout the surrounding area. We recommend visiting them all while you're there.
A historic site with beautiful, vibrant colors, located across the street.
◆Fusaki Beach
Just a few minutes by car. A popular beach where you can enjoy water sports and swimming.
◆Tomizaki Kannondo
A 5-minute walk from the lighthouse. A historic shrine known for its blessings for safe voyages and good health.
◆Ishigaki Island Product Center
A farm stand that also features a workshop where they make their own brown sugar. Perfect for finding souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Kannonzaki Lighthouse
Click here to find out how to enjoy the nightlife on Ishigaki Island↓
What to Do at Night on Ishigaki Island? 8 Recommended Nighttime Activities!
If you're looking to rent a car on Ishigaki Island, click here↓
Ishigaki Island Car Rental
See all activities
Ishigaki Island Tours
←List of recommended sightseeing spots on Ishigaki Island
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