Nishizaki (Japan's westernmost monument)

What is Irizaki?

Irizaki is a cape located at the western tip of Yonaguni Island, where a monument marking the westernmost point of Japan stands. The name "Nishizaki" is written "Irizaki" because in the Okinawan dialect, the direction (west) where the sun sets is expressed as "Iri (entering)". The westernmost monument stands at 24 degrees 26 minutes 58 seconds north latitude and 122 degrees 56 minutes 01 second east longitude, and the sunset seen from here is known as "the last sunset in Japan.

Places to visit

Japan's westernmost monument

This is the only monument that the public can freely visit among the east, west, south, and north ends of Japan. It is popular as a photo spot, and many tourists visiting Yonaguni Island stop by to commemorate "reaching the westernmost point of Japan".

A spectacular view of Taiwan

The distance from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan is only 111 km in a straight line, and on days when weather conditions are favorable (mainly in the early morning of winter when the air is clear), you can clearly see the shadows of Taiwan's mountains on the horizon.

Nishizaki Lighthouse and Observatory

The white Nishizaki Lighthouse stands at the tip of the cape, and there is an observatory nearby. The observatory offers a panoramic view of the precipitous coastline, the Pacific Ocean, and the East China Sea, and is also famous for its sunset.

Japan's Westernmost Certificate

The Yonaguni Town Tourist Association issues "Japan's Westernmost Certificate" (500 yen per copy) as a proof of visiting the westernmost point. It is a popular souvenir that will serve as a memento of your visit for a lifetime.

Access

• Approx. 15 min. by car from Yonaguni Airport
• About 3 min. by car from Kubura Port
• Renting a car or a motorcycle is convenient

Points of Visit

• The best time to see the sunset is 30 minutes before sunset.
• Be prepared for strong winds and bring a hat and jacket.
• We recommend a walk around the town of Kubura Fishing Port as well.