Highlights of Soya Cape
Monument to “Japan’s Northernmost Point”
Soya Cape is the northernmost point in Japan that ordinary travelers can visit by public transportation or car. The monument to “Japan’s Northernmost Point,” located at 45 degrees 31 minutes 22 seconds north latitude, is shaped like one ray of the North Star, with the “N” in the center indicating north. Facing the sea, you can see Sakhalin about 43 km away on clear days.
The northernmost point of Japan’s entire territory is Cape Kamoiwakka on Etorofu Island. Cape Sōya is widely known as “the northernmost point of Japan,” but knowing this distinction helps visitors understand the monument’s meaning more accurately.
The Statue of Mamiya Rinzō and Soya Cape Park
Near the monument stands a statue of Mamiya Rinzō, who explored Sakhalin in the late Edo period and confirmed the existence of the Tatar Strait. In Cape Sōya Park, on the elevated ground across the road, you will find sites including the former naval lookout tower, the Tower of Prayer, and the Akebono Statue. The coastal monument can be seen even during a short visit, but walking to the park changes the angle of the view over the Sōya Strait and lets you trace the history of Cape Sōya.
The feeling of reaching Japan’s northernmost point
Around the cape, you’ll find shops and souvenirs claiming to be the northernmost in Japan, creating a “journey’s final destination” atmosphere distinct from central Wakkanai. The sea wind can be strong, and the perceived temperature often drops even in summer, so it is reassuring to have an extra layer for even a brief visit.
Basic Information about Cape Sōya
The information below was checked against official sources on September 21, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- You can check the highlights, location, parking, and travel time from central Wakkanai.
宗谷岬｜観光スポット｜【公式】きた・北海道/稚内・利尻・礼文の観光WEBサイト北海道本島の最北端、北緯45度31分22秒に位置する岬。日本の“北の終着点”としての圧倒的な存在感を放ちます。目の前に広がるのは、どこまでも青く深いオホーツク海。宗谷岬の先端に立てば、吹き抜ける力強い風とともに、日本最北の地の…www.north-hokkaido.com - 📍 Address
- Sōya-misaki, Wakkanai, Hokkaido
- 🅿️ Parking
- Free, 72 spaces, suitable for large buses
- 🕒 Hours
- The outdoor monument and surrounding area can be visited at any time. Opening hours for shops and nearby facilities vary.
- 🚫 Closure days
- The outdoor monument has no regular closure days. Follow access restrictions caused by severe weather or construction.
- 💶 Admission
- Free
- ⏱️ Time required
- Allow 20 to 30 minutes to visit the monument marking Japan’s northernmost point and the standing statue of Mamiya Rinzō, and 45 to 60 minutes to walk to Cape Sōya Park across the road.⚠️ Allow extra time for getting around in strong winds or during the snowy season.
Getting to Cape Sōya
Route buses
From the area in front of JR Wakkanai Station, take the Soya Bus Tenpoku-Soyamisaki Line and get off at “Soyamisaki.” Because service may vary by season and day of the week, check the return bus in advance as well as the outbound service.
By car
As a guide, it takes about 40 minutes from JR Wakkanai Station and about 25 minutes from Wakkanai Airport. Winds are strong along the coast, and snowstorms and icy roads can occur in winter, so check road conditions and the weather before driving.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Wakkanai: A guide to sightseeing spots, food, transportation and sample itineraries”.
