- The Luxury of Watching the Sunset Quietly
- What Is Shiratorizaki? Irabu Island's Unknown Northernmost Cape
- Access to Shiratorizaki and Car Park Information
- Don't Be Satisfied at the Pavilion! Go to the Rocks
- The Spectacle of the White Waves and Its Appeal
- A Too-Hidden Sunset Spot
- A Hidden Snorkelling Spot
- Famous as a Diving Spot Too
- Shiratorizaki Is Also a Mecca for Fishing
- You Can Enjoy a Stroll on the Path Too
- On Windy Days You Need Resolve
- Bring Drinks
- Watch Your Footing! Easy-to-Walk-In Shoes Essential
- You Can Sometimes See Shimojishima Airport's Planes
- Plenty of Nearby Sights Too
- The Pros and Cons of Shiratorizaki
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1: Where is Shiratorizaki?
- Q2: Is there a car park? What's the fee?
- Q3: Is there a toilet?
- Q4: Is the sunset beautiful?
- Q5: Can you snorkel?
- Q6: What time is recommended to go?
- Q7: Are drinks sold?
- Q8: What kind of shoes are good?
- Q9: Can you dive?
- Q10: Is it OK with children?
- Q11: Can you fish?
- Q12: Where does the path lead?
- I Want You to Taste the Luxury of Watching the Sunset Quietly
The Luxury of Watching the Sunset Quietly
The first time I went to Shiratorizaki was an April evening. I'd gone right round Irabu Island and was thinking it was about time to head back to my lodging, when, gazing blankly at the map on my phone, the words "Shiratorizaki" caught my eye and somehow drew me in. "Cape" has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?
On a light whim I turned the wheel north, passed through a residential area and proceeded along a narrow road, which gradually became unpaved, rattling along, and I grew anxious — "is this really the right way?" But turning back was a hassle too, and pressing on I saw a guidance board and felt relieved.
I arrived at a small car park. Just two cars, incredibly quiet. There was a pavilion right in front, and apparently some people are satisfied there and go home, but I somehow felt it wasn't enough and tried going further in.
The path to the rocks was unpaved and rugged, and after walking about 30 seconds, the view opened up.
In that moment, my breath stopped.
The blue sea spreading before me, a horizon stretching endlessly, a too-wide sky. White waves continued all along the reef, a white line encircling the sea. Ah, so these are the swan's wings. I understood the origin of the name in an instant.
The time was 5:30 pm, and the sun had begun to lower. No one there. Only the sound of the waves. Sitting down on the rocks and gazing at the sea, the wind was strong and my hair went everywhere, but it felt good, and the sky gradually dyed orange, the sun sinking into the horizon.
Beautiful. Truly beautiful. "This is too much of a hidden gem," I thought.
I'll write about Shiratorizaki's appeal from the viewpoint of someone who's actually visited many times. Sunset, snorkelling, fishing, the path — I'll talk about it all. If you go to Irabu Island, I absolutely want you to drop by Shiratorizaki. I want you to experience the luxury of watching the sunset quietly.
What Is Shiratorizaki? Irabu Island's Unknown Northernmost Cape
Shiratorizaki (Cape Shiratori) is a cape at the northernmost tip of Irabu Island, also called Shiratorisaki. It's within Nishikaigan (West Coast) Park, and is officially part of the park, but it doesn't feel like a park at all. It has the goodness of being more natural, wild, and not over-developed.
The Origin of the Swan Name Is Too Beautiful
Because the white waves standing on the reef look like a swan's wings, it's Shiratorizaki (Swan Cape). When I first heard this I was half-doubting — "is that so?" — but seeing it in reality, you're convinced. Because it really does look like a white bird spreading its wings wide and flying over the sea.
Since it's incredibly close from the shore to the reef, the white waves are clearly visible. On days with a strong north wind there's even more force, with the white waves breaking grandly. Winter especially is amazing.
The Reason There Are Few Tourists, and Its Appeal
Shiratorizaki really has few tourists. Compared with 17END or Sawada-no-Hama, its profile is overwhelmingly low, and it's only listed small in guidebooks. So it's a hidden gem among hidden gems.
This is the best thing. For people who want to spend time quietly, who are bad with crowds, who just want to zone out gazing at the sea, it's already a perfect place.
Locals come to fish, come for shellfish gathering, and there are families parking around the pavilion eating packed lunches. A peaceful scene that's not tourist-spot-like. That's good.
Access to Shiratorizaki and Car Park Information
The way to Shiratorizaki is basically simple, but the last narrow road is a bit hard to understand. First-timers may get anxious — "huh, is this right?"
Location and Basic Information
Address: 908-2 Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa (within Nishikaigan Park)
Fee: free
Car park: yes (free)
Toilet: yes
It's at the north end of Irabu Island, the feel of heading north on the prefectural road from Sawada-no-Hama.
From Miyako Airport to Shiratorizaki
About 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport. Cross the Irabu Bridge to enter Irabu Island, then head north as you are. The road is basically easy to understand, but you may get a little lost when entering the last narrow road. There's a guidance board, so as long as you don't miss it you're fine.
Access from Shimojishima Airport Is Convenient
About 15 minutes by car from Shimojishima Airport. Since it's close to the airport, dropping by while you're seeing 17END is recommended. I always go by this route too. Swim at 17END in the morning, relax at Shiratorizaki in the early afternoon, and watch the sunset in the evening. A perfect plan.
The Car Park Is Small, but You Won't Struggle
The car park is free, with space for about 5–10 cars. It's not that large, but since there are few tourists it almost never fills up. Whenever I went, it was always open.
Entering from the stone roundabout, there's space to park around the pavilion. It's unpaved, but an ordinary car is no problem at all. Reassuring even in a rental car.
There's a Toilet, but No Shower
The toilet is right near the car park. Just having this is appreciated. But there's no changing room or shower, so people who snorkel had best think about how to change. I always change in the car.
Don't Be Satisfied at the Pavilion! Go to the Rocks
Park the car and a pavilion is visible right in front, but apparently quite a few people are satisfied here and go home. What a waste. Because the real spectacle is at the rocks.
Treat the Pavilion as a Rest Spot
The pavilion has a roof and gives shade, so it's just right for resting. But you can't see the scenery well from the pavilion. Trees and a fence block the view, and you think "huh? This is Shiratorizaki?" In fact, at first I too thought "this is somehow different from what I expected."
But skip the pavilion and proceed further in.
The Path to the Rocks Is Short but Needs Care
Pass the pavilion and go further in. The path to the rocks is unpaved and rugged. Easy-to-walk-in shoes are essential. Sandals are dangerous. You nearly trip.
I too went in beach sandals at first and regretted it hugely. I nearly caught my foot on the rocks and had a scary moment. Since then I always go in trainers.
About 30 seconds on foot. Short. But in these 30 seconds the scenery completely changes.
The Emotion the Moment You Reach the Rocks
The moment you reach the rocks, the view opens up — blue sea, wide sky, white waves. "Whoa," a voice comes out. The elevation isn't that high, but that's exactly why you can feel the horizon close, and really feel that the earth is round. Truly.
Coming this far, you finally see Shiratorizaki's true form.
The Spectacle of the White Waves and Its Appeal
Shiratorizaki's top highlight is, after all, the white waves. The white waves continuing all along the reef are truly beautiful.
The Reef Is Close, So the White Waves Are Clearly Visible
It's incredibly close from the shore to the reef, so the white waves standing on the reef are clearly visible. The white waves continue on and on, the feeling of a white line encircling the sea.
On windy days the white waves are even grander and more forceful. It's easily affected by the north wind, so winter especially is amazing. Summer is calm, winter is wild. The expression changes by season.
The Moment It Looks Like a Swan's Wings
The white waves look like a swan's wings. This is the origin of the name Shiratorizaki, and at first I thought "is that so?", but gazing for a while it really does look that way. Like a white bird spreading its wings wide, flying over the sea.
This is more moving seen in person than taken in a photo. It's hard to convey in a photo.
Soothed by the Sound of the Waves
Sitting on the rocks gazing at the sea, you hear the sound of the waves. Whoosh, whoosh. Soothing. You could listen forever.
There's no other sound. No car sounds, no people's voices, only the sound of the waves. This stillness is Shiratorizaki's appeal, the feeling of being released from the bustle of the city.
A Too-Hidden Sunset Spot
Shiratorizaki is actually incredibly excellent as a sunset spot, but few people know it. A hidden gem among hidden gems.
The Advantage of Being in the Northwest of Irabu Island
Since Shiratorizaki is in the northwest of Irabu Island, the sunset is beautifully visible. Depending on the time, directionally you can see a perfect sunset. The sky dyes orange, turns red, turns pink, turns purple. The sunset reflecting on the sea is beautiful too.
At 17END and other famous sunset spots, sometimes there are many people and you can't watch slowly, but Shiratorizaki is almost like having it to yourself. You can watch the sunset quietly.
Recommended Times
The evening, around 4:30 to 6 pm, is recommended. The sunset time differs by season, so it's best to check in advance. In summer it's light until around 7 pm, but in winter it gets dark by 5:30–6 pm.
What I recommend is arriving 30 minutes before sunset. That way you can enjoy the whole process of the sky's colours changing. The magic hour after sunset isn't to be missed either. It's the time when the sky dyes a fantastical colour, and many say this is the most beautiful.
A Luxurious Time Because There Are Few People
Since Shiratorizaki has few tourists, you can watch the sunset quietly. At other famous sunset spots, there are many people and it's crowded with people taking photos. But Shiratorizaki is almost like having it to yourself. Sometimes it's just me.
Sitting on the rocks, gazing at the sea, feeling the wind, the sun sinking. You can have this luxurious time all to yourself.
A Hidden Snorkelling Spot
Shiratorizaki is actually a hidden snorkelling spot too. It's famous as a diving spot, but few people snorkel.
The Merit of the Reef Being Close to the Shore
Since it's incredibly close from the shore to the reef, you can see coral right away. About 10 metres after starting to swim, you reach the coral reef. The clarity is high too, and you can see the sea well. There are fish.
At other beaches it can take time to swim to the reef, but Shiratorizaki is easy. Reassuring even for those not confident in their fitness.
You Can Explore an Inlet with a Cave Too
Proceed along the path from the car park, cross a bridge, and going further there's an inlet with a cave. This is good for snorkelling too. However, it gets deep quickly, so it's for people who can swim to some extent. Beginners had best not push it.
I once snorkelled in this inlet too, and the depth suddenly got deep and I panicked. I was really glad I was wearing a life jacket.
Beware of Rip Currents! Safety First
When the sea is rough or at low tide, the tidal flow is strong. A rip current can occur and sweep you offshore. This is really dangerous.
Swim with full care. If possible, wear a life jacket. Don't swim alone. Go with several people. On days the sea is rough, giving up is important too.
A friend of mine once nearly got caught in a rip current and said they had a really scary experience. Safety first.
Famous as a Diving Spot Too
Shiratorizaki is famous as a diving spot too, and diving boats are often anchored offshore.
The Complex Terrain of Caves and Arches
The sea around Shiratorizaki has caves and arches, with complex terrain. It's popular with divers, and many divers visit from all over the country. I have a diving licence too, but I haven't yet dived at Shiratorizaki. Next time I go I absolutely want to dive.
A Highly Clear Sea
The sea's clarity is incredibly high. Even seen from the rocks, you can see the seabed. You can see the coral reef too. It's the beautiful sea called Miyako blue, and on fine days especially the emerald-green sea shines.
If you spot a diving boat, the sea around it is a diving point. Those interested should inquire at a diving shop.
Shiratorizaki Is Also a Mecca for Fishing
Shiratorizaki is famous as a rocky-shore fishing point too, and anglers visit from all over the country.
The Reason Anglers Gather from All Over the Country
There are often anglers on the rocks, and hooks may be hanging down, so check your surroundings and be safe. I don't fish, but watching the anglers is somehow peaceful.
According to information, you can catch octopus and turban shells. Locals sometimes gather shellfish too, and I often see the scene of local families gathered around the pavilion.
Shellfish Gathering at Low Tide Too
At low tide, you can gather shellfish. Locals search the inlet's sand with buckets. Apparently you can find not just octopus and turban shells but also star sand.
Finding star sand is delightful. Like a child, you end up overjoyed. It feels like a gift from the gods of Irabu Island.
You Can Enjoy a Stroll on the Path Too
Shiratorizaki has a path, and you can enjoy a stroll too.
A Path Continuing Towards Sarahama
From the car park, there's a path on the right side facing the sea. It continues towards Sarahama, a path leading to Funausagibanata. It's famous as a strolling course, and the feeling of the scenery changing is fun.
I once walked this path too, but turned back partway. Because a bridge was broken and I couldn't cross to the other side.
The Bridge Is Sometimes Broken
There's a bridge partway along the path, but it's sometimes broken. You can't cross to the other side. It's best to check before going, but I don't know where to check. You just have to go, and turn back if it's no good.
But I think going as far as you can is fine. The scenery is beautiful even partway.
On Windy Days You Need Resolve
Shiratorizaki is often windy. Some days are incredibly strong.
Easily Affected by the North Wind
Since it's Irabu Island's northernmost tip, it's easily affected by the north wind. On windy days, hats blow off. Your hair gets messy. But that too is Shiratorizaki's appeal. The exhilaration of gazing at the sea while bathed in the sea breeze.
When it's too windy, photos are hard to take, and staying long is tough. But the white waves on a windy day have force, and that's worth seeing in its own way.
Don't Forget Wind Countermeasures
A hat with a strap is good. Otherwise it'll definitely blow off. I once had my favourite hat blown off and watched it fall into the sea. It was sad.
People with long hair had best tie it up. It gets messy in the wind and you can't take photos.
Bring Drinks
Shiratorizaki has no vending machine and no shop.
Hydration Is Essential
It's especially hot in summer, with little shade. Hydration is essential. Bring drinks. There are convenience stores and vending machines only in places far from Shiratorizaki.
I once didn't bring drinks and got incredibly thirsty. Since then I always make a point of bringing plenty.
Heatstroke Countermeasures Too
It's best to bring a hat and sunglasses too. Sunscreen is essential too. Irabu Island's summer sunlight is really strong. Let your guard down and you'll get sunburnt right away.
Especially when staying long on the rocks, there's no shade so care is needed.
Watch Your Footing! Easy-to-Walk-In Shoes Essential
Shiratorizaki's rocks are rugged and the footing is bad.
Sandals Are Dangerous
In sandals it's really dangerous. You catch your foot on the rocks and nearly trip. I too went in beach sandals at first and had scary moments many times.
Trainers or trekking shoes are recommended. Ones with a non-slip sole are good.
Wet Rocks Are Especially Slippery
After rain, or rocks splashed by waves, are especially slippery. Take care not to trip. A friend of mine once slipped on a wet rock and grazed their hand. Luckily it wasn't a big injury, but be careful.
You Can Sometimes See Shimojishima Airport's Planes
Since Shimojishima Airport is close, you can sometimes see planes.
You Might See Touch-and-Go
At Shimojishima Airport there are periods when training flights are held, and you can sometimes see training aircraft doing touch-and-go. For plane lovers, it's irresistible.
I once saw touch-and-go too and got incredibly excited. The plane flies in low, so it has force.
The Collaboration of Plane and Sunset
If the timing's right, you can see the collaboration of plane and sunset. This is really rare. If you can capture it in a photo, it's the best.
Plenty of Nearby Sights Too
There are many sights around Shiratorizaki. You can go round them in a day, so it's easy to work into a sightseeing plan.
17END
17END is about 15 minutes by car. At the end of the Shimojishima Airport runway, it's called a phantom beach. The emerald-green sea is truly beautiful. A spectacular spot.
Swimming at 17END in the morning and moving to Shiratorizaki in the afternoon is recommended.
Toriike Pond
Toriike Pond is about 20 minutes by car. Designated a National Natural Monument, it's a mystical place where two ponds connect to the sea underground. With a mysterious atmosphere, it's popular as a power spot too.
Sawada-no-Hama
Sawada-no-Hama is about 10 minutes by car. Chosen among Japan's 100 Best Beaches, it has distinctive scenery with big rocks lying about. The sunset is beautiful too.
Funausagibanata
Funausagibanata is connected to Shiratorizaki by the path (if the bridge isn't broken). The sea seen from atop the cliff is beautiful, and the origin of the name is interesting too.
The Pros and Cons of Shiratorizaki
Let me sum up the good points and points of concern about Shiratorizaki that I felt from actually visiting many times.
Pros
You can watch the sunset quietly
Few tourists, almost like having it to yourself. You can enjoy the sunset quietly. This is the biggest pro.
You can see the spectacle of the white waves
The white waves standing on the reef look like a swan's wings. The scenery that gave it its name is truly beautiful.
You can feel the wide sky and horizon close
Since the elevation is low, you can feel the horizon close. You can really feel that the earth is round.
A hidden snorkelling spot
Since it's close from the shore to the reef, you can see coral right away. With few people, you can enjoy it at leisure.
A diving spot
With caves and arches, complex terrain. Popular with divers.
A fishing point
A famous rocky-shore fishing spot. Anglers gather from all over the country.
Strolling on the path
There's a path continuing towards Sarahama. You can enjoy a stroll too (if the bridge isn't broken).
Free to enjoy
The car park and admission are free. You can enjoy the spectacle without spending money.
Cons
The road is unpaved
The path to the rocks is rugged. Easy-to-walk-in shoes are essential. Sandals are dangerous.
Minimal facilities
No changing room or shower. Just a toilet. People who snorkel struggle with where to change.
No vending machine or shop
You need to bring drinks. Especially in summer, hydration is essential.
It's windy
Easily affected by the north wind. On windy days it's incredibly strong. Hats blow off.
The car park is small
Space for only about 5–10 cars. But it almost never fills up.
You can't see the scenery from the pavilion
You can't see the spectacle without going to the rocks. Being satisfied at the pavilion is a waste.
The danger of rip currents
When snorkelling, beware of rip currents. When the sea is rough or at low tide, it's especially dangerous.
The path's bridge is sometimes broken
You might go and find the bridge broken and can't cross to the other side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let me sum up the commonly asked questions about Shiratorizaki.
Q1: Where is Shiratorizaki?
908-2 Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa. The northernmost tip of Irabu Island. About 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, about 15 minutes from Shimojishima Airport.
Q2: Is there a car park? What's the fee?
There's a car park. Free. But space for only about 5–10 cars. Since there are few tourists, it almost never fills up.
Q3: Is there a toilet?
There is. Right near the car park. But there's no changing room or shower.
Q4: Is the sunset beautiful?
Beautiful. Since it's in the northwest of Irabu Island, the sunset is clearly visible. With few people, you can watch it quietly. A hidden sunset spot.
Q5: Can you snorkel?
You can. Since it's close from the shore to the reef, you can see coral right away. But beware of rip currents. Wearing a life jacket is recommended. Don't swim alone.
Q6: What time is recommended to go?
To see the sunset, the evening around 4:30 to 6 pm. The sunset time differs by season, so it's best to check in advance. Arriving 30 minutes before sunset is recommended.
Q7: Are drinks sold?
Not sold. No vending machine or shop. Bring drinks. Especially in summer, hydration is essential.
Q8: What kind of shoes are good?
Trainers or trekking shoes are recommended. The rocks are rugged, so sandals are dangerous.
Q9: Can you dive?
You can. The sea around Shiratorizaki has caves and arches, and is famous as a diving spot. It's good to inquire at a diving shop.
Q10: Is it OK with children?
It's OK. But since the rocks are rugged, take care with small children. Walk holding hands. When snorkelling, care is especially needed.
Q11: Can you fish?
You can. Famous as a rocky-shore fishing point. Anglers visit from all over the country. When there are anglers, hooks may be hanging down, so check your surroundings and be safe.
Q12: Where does the path lead?
It continues towards Sarahama, leading to Funausagibanata. However, the bridge is sometimes broken, and you may not be able to cross to the other side.
I Want You to Taste the Luxury of Watching the Sunset Quietly
Shiratorizaki is a hidden spot I absolutely want you to drop by if you go to Irabu Island. Do experience the luxury of watching the sunset quietly.
The emotion when I first saw the sunset at Shiratorizaki is unforgettable even now. No one there, quiet, only the sound of the waves audible, the sun sinking into the horizon, the sky dyeing orange, turning red, turning pink, turning purple. I'd never seen such a beautiful sunset.
At other famous sunset spots, there are often many people and you can't watch slowly. It's crowded with people taking photos, and securing a spot is hard. But Shiratorizaki is almost like having it to yourself. Sometimes it's just me.
Sitting on the rocks, gazing at the sea, feeling the wind. The wind is strong and my hair goes everywhere, but it feels good. White waves stand on the reef, like a white bird spreading its wings, and you're convinced "so this is the origin of the name Shiratorizaki."
A wide sky, and a horizon stretching endlessly. Since the elevation is low, you can feel the horizon close, and really feel that the earth is round. There's no other experience like this.
The sound of the waves is audible the whole time. Whoosh, whoosh. Soothing. You can sit forever, forgetting time.
Snorkelling is fun too. Since it's close from the shore to the reef, you can see coral right away, the clarity is high, and you can see the sea well. There are fish. There's an inlet with a cave too, and it feels like an adventure. But beware of rip currents. Wear a life jacket and swim with several people. Safety first.
The path is good too. It continues towards Sarahama, and strolling, the scenery changes and it's fun. The bridge is sometimes broken, but going as far as you can is fine.
It's famous as a fishing point too, with anglers on the rocks. I don't fish, but watching the anglers is somehow peaceful. Apparently you can find star sand too, and I want to search at low tide. Next time I go, I'll try.
However, you'd best be prepared for the wind. Since it's easily affected by the north wind, on windy days it's incredibly strong. Hats nearly blow off, and your hair gets messy. But that too is Shiratorizaki's appeal. The exhilaration of gazing at the sea while bathed in the sea breeze.
The facilities are minimal. No changing room or shower, just a toilet. There's no vending machine or shop, so bring drinks. Especially in summer, hydration is essential.
Since the rocks are rugged, easy-to-walk-in shoes are essential. Sandals are dangerous. The car park is small too, with space for only about 5–10 cars, but since there are few tourists, it rarely fills up.
You can't see the scenery well from the pavilion, so do go to the rocks. Just about 30 seconds on foot. The moment you reach the rocks, the view opens up and a spectacle awaits.
17END, Toriike Pond, Sawada-no-Hama. There are many sights nearby, and dropping by Shiratorizaki during sightseeing. A perfect plan.
If you have plans to go to Irabu Island, do drop by Shiratorizaki. Go around 4:30 to 6 pm, watch the sunset, sit on the rocks, gaze at the sea, listen to the sound of the waves, feel the wind.
No one there. Quiet. Like having it to yourself. The sun sinking into the horizon. The sky dyeing orange. Beautiful. Incredibly beautiful.
There's no other place where you can see such a quiet, such a beautiful sunset. Shiratorizaki is such a place. It never gets old no matter how many times you go. You want to see it again. And I always think "I want to come again."
Irabu Island's blue sea, white sand, beautiful sunset. And Shiratorizaki's stillness and spectacle. With all of these in place, it becomes the best trip. I want you, too, to experience such a trip. At Shiratorizaki, the luxury of watching the sunset quietly.
