Cape Hirakubozaki is located at the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island. Known for its distinctive landscape of open pastureland and dramatic coastline, the cape offers some of the most impressive ocean views on the island.
The area has traditionally been used as grazing land since the time of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Today, Japanese Black cattle are raised in the surrounding pasture, creating a unique landscape where green grassland meets the brilliant blue of the tropical sea.
After passing through the pastureland, visitors reach a lighthouse overlooking the northern tip of Ishigaki Island. Directly ahead lies the small island of Daichi Island, while a beautiful coral reef stretches across the cobalt-blue sea to the right.
The vivid contrast between the green pastureland and the intensely blue ocean is one of the defining features of Cape Hirakubozaki. A monument marking the northernmost point of Ishigaki Island also stands nearby, making this a memorable place to appreciate the island’s geographical extremity.
There is more to see than the view from the lighthouse. Rocks beside the parking area can also be climbed to enjoy a different perspective of the coastline and surrounding sea.
Looking back toward the island, the lush green landscape resembles a vast natural carpet. This inland view is just as beautiful as the seascape and is easy to overlook if you focus only on the lighthouse and ocean.
Cape Hirakubozaki is approximately 90 minutes by car from central Ishigaki City. The journey itself is part of the experience, as the road to the northern tip passes through the island’s changing landscapes.
A complete drive around Ishigaki Island can take approximately three hours without extended stops. Travelers who want to visit several major viewpoints should allow about half a day, while those who prefer to drive slowly, stop for photographs, and enjoy the scenery are better off setting aside a full day.
The farther north you travel, the more spacious and peaceful the landscape becomes. Cape Hirakubozaki offers a chance to experience a less urban side of Ishigaki Island, where grazing cattle, open green fields, coral reefs, and the endless blue sea come together.
For travelers exploring Ishigaki Island by car, Cape Hirakubozaki is a rewarding destination where the journey is almost as memorable as the view itself. The dramatic contrast between the green pastureland and cobalt-blue ocean makes the northern tip of the island a truly unforgettable scenic stop.
Approximately 45 km from the airport
Car: about 1 hour
Bus: Hirano Line, Ibaruma Line via Hirano, “Hirano” alighting
Bus terminal - Hirano/approx. 1 hr. 30 min., 15 min. walk from the bus stop [timetable].
Since this is a bus-free boarding area, if you say “I want to go to Hirakubozaki Lighthouse,” they will drop you off at the nearest location. When you get on the bus, just raise your hand and it will stop.