Cape Zanpa is one of the most beautiful locations to witness the sun setting into the East China Sea. Okinawa is known for its beautiful capes, however, Cape Zanpa is one of the only capes on Okinawa Island that has an operational lighthouse and is easily accessible from Naha and surrounding villages. The rugged coastline and rustic lighthouse make an ideal setting at any time of day, however this time , I decided to visit closer to dusk to witness what was one of my personal favorite sunsets in recent memory. To access Cape Zanpa, take Route 58 north until you reach Route 6, turn left and follow the signs to Cape Zanpa.
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Cape Zanpa Sunset
A Beautiful Coastline, a Lighthouse & The Setting Sun

By Chris Barnes
Community writer

During a sunset, colours change every couple of minutes

The rugged coastline is beautiful in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. There are multiple observation decks along the cape

Cape Zanpa is known to be a popular local fishing spot. A local fisherman trying his luck at Cape Zanpa

Cape Zanpa's rugged coastline makes a perfect backdrop for any time of day

Locals tell me its rare to have such a glassy ocean surface.

The Zanpa coastline is extremely exposed, often being battered by waves from the East China Sea

The sun on its way down at Cape Zanpa

It's worth noting that the colours in a sunset actually get better after the sun falls behind the horizon

For those who appreciate a nice Black & White photo, sunsets still look great even without the colour
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Novriana Dewi
9 years ago
Wonderful pictures, Chris! I guess I need to put Cape Zanpa on my list for Okinawa trip now!
Thanks Novriana :) It's a beautiful spot, easily accessible, lots of parking, beautiful views, just be careful if you're climbing around on the rocks.
Thanks Shimarno. It's a great place to visit at sunset if you are in Okinawa, i highly recommend it.
Richard Flair
11 years ago
got the light perfect ..it took me years to get mine that sharp
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