Hirakubozaki is a cape on Ishigaki Island, well known as the island’s northernmost point.
The view from Hirakubozaki is superb: emerald green water and a beautiful coral reef in the same frame make for a genuinely lovely scene.
The lighthouse stands 13 m tall, and the light sits 74 m above sea level.
Ratings for Hirakubozaki (Hirakubozaki Lighthouse)
*Ratings reflect the personal impressions of the Okinawa Bookmark editor compared with other capes in Okinawa Prefecture
Hirakubozaki (Hirakubozaki Lighthouse) at a Glance
| Opening hours | None in particular |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | About 20 minutes |
| Parking | Available (free) |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Shop | None (vending machines only) |
| Lighthouse admission | The lighthouse cannot be entered |
| Official website | No |
Hirakubozaki has a paved walkway, so it can be reached by wheelchair.
The lighthouse itself cannot be climbed, so plan accordingly.
The Highlights
Hirakubozaki Lighthouse
You can walk up close to the lighthouse, but you cannot go inside.
There is a monument of sorts inscribed “Hirakubozaki Lighthouse, the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island.”
The View from the Rise
The view from Hirakubozaki is superb.
The outlook toward Hirano Beach is the one to seek out in particular.
A “Lighthouse of Love”
There is a sign here marking it as a Koi-suru Todai, a “lighthouse of love.”
A Beautiful Sunset
The sunset at Hirakubozaki is lovely as well.
Beautiful Night Skies
Hirakubozaki is also known for its star-filled skies.
Access and Parking
| Access | About 45 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport |
| Address | 234-50 Hirakubo, Ishigaki City, Okinawa |
| Parking | Available (free) |
| Restrooms | Yes |
Hirakubozaki (Hirakubozaki Lighthouse) has a free parking lot with room for about 8 cars.
See the image and Google Map below for details.
Around Hirakubozaki (Hirakubozaki Lighthouse)
Activities on Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island has a great deal to do.
Marine activities in particular are plentiful — snorkeling, diving, SUP, kayaking, and more.
If any of that appeals, take a look on Viator or GetYourGuide.
Club Med Ishigaki
Club Med Ishigaki is one of the finest luxury resorts on the island.
It offers spacious rooms with ocean views, an attractive pool, and a stretch of shore that feels almost like a private beach.
Rental Cars on Ishigaki Island
A rental car is by far the best way to get around Ishigaki Island.
Scenic spots such as Kabira Bay and Yonehara Beach are spread across the island, so having a car lets you explore at your own pace. Bus services on Ishigaki Island are infrequent, and a car makes a real difference to how much you can fit in.
Cars fill up quickly in the peak season, so we recommend booking early once your travel dates are set. One important note for overseas visitors: to drive in Japan you must obtain an International Driving Permit (Geneva Convention) in your home country before you depart, and remember that traffic in Japan drives on the left.
Summary
This guide has covered Hirakubozaki (Hirakubozaki Lighthouse).
Hirakubozaki is a superb viewpoint where you can take in a genuinely beautiful stretch of coast.
When you visit Ishigaki Island, be sure to make time for Hirakubozaki.
Thank you for reading to the end.
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