Cape Shiriyazaki Aomori
Northernmost lighthouse on Honshu, where wild horses roam and the Japan Sea meets the Pacific. A dramatic, windswept natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, calm seas
Cape Shiriyazaki Aomori
Best Time
Clear skies, calm seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Northernmost lighthouse on Honshu, where wild horses roam and the Japan Sea meets the Pacific. A dramatic, windswept natural wonder.
"Witness the wild beauty of Japan's northern tip, with a lighthouse, horses, and powerful seas."
🎯 Lighthouse Climb Hours
Climb the lighthouse before 4:45 PM. Check for seasonal closures.
🐎 Horse Spotting Tips
Kandachime horses are often near the lighthouse gate, even if not in the main field.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shiriyazaki Lighthouse
Cape Shiriyazaki
Japan's northernmost lighthouse you can climb, offering panoramic sea views. Climb on a clear day for the best experience.
Kandachime Horses
Grazing fields near the lighthouse
Encounter the hardy, ancient Kandachime breed grazing freely. A unique sight against the dramatic coastal backdrop.
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Dramatic Coastline
Cape Shiriyazaki
Witness the powerful meeting of the Japan Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Expect wild, wet, and windy conditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Lighthouse Views
Horse Encounters & Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Lighthouse Climb Hours
Climb the lighthouse before 4:45 PM. Check for seasonal closures.
🐎 Horse Spotting Tips
Kandachime horses are often near the lighthouse gate, even if not in the main field.
🧥 Weather Preparedness
It's often windy and cold. Pack layers, even in summer.
🚻 Restroom Info
Portable toilets are available; a cleaner restroom is ~100m from the lighthouse.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Lighthouse Climb Hours
Climb the lighthouse before 4:45 PM. Check for seasonal closures.
🐎 Horse Spotting Tips
Kandachime horses are often near the lighthouse gate, even if not in the main field.
🧥 Weather Preparedness
It's often windy and cold. Pack layers, even in summer.
🚻 Restroom Info
Portable toilets are available; a cleaner restroom is ~100m from the lighthouse.
🛍️ Limited Amenities
No vending machines nearby. Souvenir shop may be closed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the dramatic coastal scenery, the iconic Shiriyazaki Lighthouse, and the unique presence of Kandachime horses. The raw, wild nature of the cape is a significant draw, offering a memorable experience of Japan's northernmost reaches. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather, limited facilities, and strict lighthouse operating hours.
"Japan sea meets the Pacific Ocean, It was wet and wild. Toilets in area clean and comfortable inside. We came. We saw. We pooed"
Sling Stoned
"Beautiful place. Famous for its sea view, white light house and Kandachime horses."
Jayanti Chaudhary
"I love horses, so this was my second visit. I arrived just as the lighthouse gates closed at 4:45pm, but unfortunately, I thought there were no horses there. 😢 But they were there just outside the gate. They're an ancient Japanese breed, so I found the cute, petite horses more soothing than thoroughbreds. However, it's quite a challenge to get there."
源泉かけながし
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Shiriyazaki is located on the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. Access typically involves driving, as public transport options are limited. Many visitors combine a trip here with a broader exploration of the peninsula.
The drive can be challenging due to winding roads and potential for unpredictable weather. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and be prepared for narrow sections.
Yes, there is a parking lot near the lighthouse. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
It's a long drive from Aomori city, making it more feasible as part of an overnight trip or a dedicated exploration of the Shimokita Peninsula. Consider staying in nearby towns like Oma or Mutsu.
Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. This allows you to easily visit Cape Shiriyazaki, Osorezan, and other scenic spots at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to visit the cape itself. However, climbing the lighthouse may have specific hours and potential entry requirements.
The lighthouse typically closes to visitors around 4:45 PM. It's crucial to check for seasonal closures, as it has been noted to close from November 10th.
While the cape is free to access, information regarding a specific fee for climbing the lighthouse is not widely available, but it's best to assume standard lighthouse visiting protocols apply.
Visiting in winter can be challenging due to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and snow. The lighthouse may also have reduced hours or be closed.
No specific booking requirements are mentioned, but it's always wise to check the official website or local tourism information for any last-minute changes or restrictions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the Shiriyazaki Lighthouse, the dramatic coastal scenery where the Japan Sea meets the Pacific, and the chance to see Kandachime horses grazing.
Yes, there are portable toilets in the parking lot. A cleaner, more equipped restroom is located about 100 meters from the lighthouse.
Yes, you can climb the lighthouse, but be mindful of its closing time (around 4:45 PM) and potential seasonal closures.
The area is famous for the Kandachime horses, an ancient Japanese breed known for their hardiness and petite size.
Dress in layers as it can be very windy and cold, even on a sunny day. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the cape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are very limited dining options directly at Cape Shiriyazaki. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks or plan to eat in nearby towns.
There are no vending machines around the cape, and the souvenir shop may not always be open. Bringing your own refreshments is highly recommended.
Nearby towns like Oma are known for fresh seafood, particularly tuna. Mutsu also offers a wider range of restaurants.
Yes, a picnic is a great idea given the limited food facilities. Enjoy the scenic views while you dine.
Aomori is famous for its apples, seafood (especially scallops and tuna), and ramen. Trying local specialties is a must.
📸 📸 Photography
The Shiriyazaki Lighthouse against the dramatic sea backdrop, the grazing Kandachime horses, and the rugged coastline are prime subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for capturing the seascape and lighthouse. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
The area around the lighthouse offers excellent vantage points. Exploring the coastal paths can reveal unique perspectives of the sea meeting the land.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the horses. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or capturing wave action.
Be patient and respectful. Try to capture them in their natural environment, grazing or interacting. Early morning light often makes their coats look beautiful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Practicalities are key for family visits. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks as amenities are scarce. The portable toilets are functional, but the cleaner restroom about 100m away is a better option for families. Be prepared for the wind and dress everyone in layers for comfort.
🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers
Embrace the wild nature of the location. The unpredictable weather, the dramatic coastline, and the free-roaming horses offer a raw, authentic experience. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the lighthouse for unparalleled views, but always check its operating hours beforehand.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
+1Be prepared for challenging light and weather conditions. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto can bring the horses closer. Remember to protect your gear from wind and sea spray.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Shiriyazaki Lighthouse
Visitors are advised to check the lighthouse's operating hours, as it typically closes around 4:45 PM. There have been instances of seasonal closures, such as from November 10th, so confirming accessibility beforehand is crucial. Climbing the lighthouse on a clear, calm day is highly recommended for the most spectacular panoramic vistas.
The experience of ascending the lighthouse is often described as rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment and unparalleled views. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Cape Shiriyazaki, providing a memorable highlight of the trip.
Encountering the Kandachime Horses
+1While they are a major draw, spotting them can sometimes be a challenge. They might be found just outside the lighthouse gate, and their exact location can vary. Visitors who are passionate about horses often find these ancient Japanese breed more soothing than larger thoroughbreds.
Observing the Kandachime horses braving the elements, especially in windy conditions, is a moving experience. They are a symbol of the wild beauty and enduring spirit of this remote coastal region.
Navigating the Wild Coastline
Visitors should be prepared for the unpredictable weather. Even on sunny days, strong winds can make it feel quite cold, so layering clothing is essential. The landscape is stark and beautiful, with rocky shores and expansive sea views that stretch to the horizon.
This untamed environment offers a sense of remoteness and natural grandeur. It's a place where you can feel the force of the ocean and appreciate the resilience of the local flora and fauna, including the Kandachime horses.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit