Marvel at the Superb Views! 5 Famous Capes in Shikoku

1. Cape Ashizuri (Kochi)

Cape Ashizuri is located on the westernmost end of Shikoku in Ashizuri Peninsula. With a cliff that is about 80m high at the tip, it is a superb spot that offers a view of the azure Pacific Ocean. And if you look from the Ashizuri Observatory that boasts 270-degree field of vision, you will see the horizon forming an arch that will make you feel the roundness of the earth. Another recommended spot here is the Hakusan Domon, a sea cave at the end of the cape. A massive hole dug in the rocky mountain by the raging waves, this cave is a natural monument designated by Kochi Prefecture. Aside from these spots, this cape also offers many other attractions nearby, such as the Ashizuri lighthouse at the tip of the cape and the Kongofuku-ji temple that has a tradition spanning nearly 1,200 years.

2. Cape Muroto (Kochi)

Next on this list is Cape Muroto that is found at the southeast end of Shikoku, jutting into the Pacific Ocean. Recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, this cape offers a dynamic view of an infinite number of strangely shaped rocks scattered in the coastline. One of the must-see spots here are the marine terraces that were formed by the heaving of the earth caused by earthquakes, and the fluctuations in sea levels, with these terraces offering a beautiful tiered plateau created by nature. If you walk on the 2.6km promenade around the cape, you will enjoy such sights as subtropical plants that are registered as national natural monuments. Also, don’t miss the Cape Muroto Lighthouse that is said to be the symbol of this cape.

3. Cape Sada (Ehime)

Measuring approximately 40km east to west, Sadamisaki Peninsula is the narrowest peninsula in Japan with a maximum width of 6.4km and minimum width of 0.8km. Located at the top of this peninsula is Cape Sada that is at the westernmost end of Shikoku. Here, going to Tsubakiyama Observation Deck is recommended as it will give you a glimpse of the truly wonderful Sadamisaki Lighthouse built on a steep cliff at the edge of the cape, and Hayasui no Seto (Hoyo Strait) that spreads at the back. You can even see Kyushu on a clear day. Furthermore, the Sadamisaki melody Line (National Route 197) in the Sadamisaki Peninsula is a famous driving course. You can enjoy scenic views of Seto Inland Sea and Uwa Sea on the left and right sides of the road.

4. Cape Kamoda (Tokushima)

Cape Kamoda is a cape on the eastern end of Shikoku that serves as its gateway to the eastern part of Tokushima and the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse, that is built on a 50m precipice, is a superb spot where you can enjoy an unbroken view of the grand ocean and the floating islands. If you come on a clear day, you can even see Onaruto Bridge, Awaji Island and Wakayama. There are many massive rocks lying about along the coast, creating a landscape that reflects the spraying of the rough seas. The sandy beach on the north side is famous as a spot where loggerhead turtles, which are only a few in number even in Japan, lay their eggs onshore. Another thing that has been getting a lot of attention lately is the stone monument called “Nami no Uta” (poem of waves). It is famous for being a spot where people can see the horizon from the heart-shaped hole in the center of the monument.

5. Cape Takei Kannon (Kagawa)

The last spot on this list is Cape Takei Kannon that is located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa. A cape found at the northernmost tip of Shikoku, Cape Takei Kannon is a place where you can see Seto Inland Sea and the islands floating there, as well as numerous ships coming and going. In particular, the torii (shrine gate) built on a massive rock at the edge is a scenic spot that will let you see Shodoshima floating off the coast. This area is also known as a sacred power spot since ancient times. The entire cape is within the precincts of Takei Kannon Temple, and at the innermost part of the approach, there is a cave with a mysterious atmosphere where the statue of Kannon is enshrined.

What do you think? Shikoku is a place where a lot of sightseeing spots dot the coast. If you ever feel lost about where to go on your trip to Shikoku, then please use this article as your reference.