Wakkanai, the top of Japan! Japan's northernmost point, Cape Soya and the dome that protected the liaison ship [Hokkaido].

  • Hokkaido
  • Sightseeing
Monument at the northernmost point of Japan, Cape Soya Photo: Wakkanai Tourist Association
Wakkanai is famous for Cape Soya, the northernmost cape in Japan. It is also a town that once bustled as the starting point of the Karafuto Shipping Route. Here are some spots where you can learn about its history.

Japan's northernmost cape, Cape Soya

It takes about 50 minutes from Wakkanai Station by car or bus. The monument "Monument to the Northernmost Point of Japan" at Cape Soya was built at 45 degrees, 31 minutes, and 22 seconds north latitude. The triangular pyramid represents one ridge of Polaris, the symbol of the North, the letter N in the center of the tower represents "North," and the circular shape of the pedestal represents "Peace and Cooperation. The tower used to be 4.53 meters in height, but it was enlarged when it was relocated to a new location. Many tourists from all over Japan and abroad come to visit Cape Soya. The surrounding area is lined with souvenir stores, lodging and restaurant establishments, and is especially crowded during the tourist season.
Standing statue of Rinzo Mamiya Photo courtesy of Wakkanai Tourist Association
On a clear day, you can even see the shadow of Sakhalin Island in the distance! Why don't you come and view the sea from the top of Japan with a standing statue of Rinzo Mamiya, the explorer who discovered the Mamiya Straits?

Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome

Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome Photo: Wakkanai Tourist Association
This is the Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome, located about a 5-minute walk from Wakkanai Station. It was built in 1936, more than 80 years ago. It was built to protect people waiting for the ships from high waves and strong winds. It has the appearance of an ancient Roman building. In addition to being designated as a Hokkaido Heritage Site, its graceful form is used for filming movies and commercials, making it an excellent photo spot.

The northernmost point of Japan! Welcome to Wakkanai Station!

Wakkanai Station and Monument Photo courtesy of Hokkaido Railway Company

The railway line leading from Wakkanai Station to the station square

Wakkanai Station, located at the end of the JR Soya Main Line, is known as "Japan's northernmost railroad station. Do you know the tracks leading out from Wakkanai Station, Japan's northernmost railroad station? The rail leads from the station building to the square in front of the station. At the end of the track, there is a yellow train stop and a monument of "Japan's northernmost railway track," which is very popular as a photo spot. Apart from this monument, there is a "northernmost rail track" inside the station building. Inside the station, there is a marker pole indicating "Japan's northernmost station," and it is a valuable spot that can only be seen at Wakkanai Station.

Why not visit Wakkanai Station and tour the "Top of Japan" on a train trip this year?
For more information about [Kita-Hokkaido DMO Official Website Wakkanai, Rishiri, Rebun Tourism Web Site], visit
For more information about [JR Hokkaido Official Website], visit

Take your favorite train and lodging combination for a budget-friendly trip!

You can create your own original trip!

The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to choose your train and accommodations freely and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Please enjoy your own trip according to your schedule and purpose.
For train + lodging reservations in the Hokkaido area, visit [ JR East View Dynamic Rail Package ]
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