Experience the Breathtaking Views from Suzu Cape! One of Japan’s Top Three Power Spots in Ishikawa Prefecture

Suzu Cape (Suzu Misaki), located at the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula, is also known as the "Sanctuary Cape." In recent years, it has gained recognition as one of Japan’s Three Major Power Spots, alongside Bungui Pass in Nagano Prefecture and Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture. This area is home to mystical landscapes and numerous tourist attractions, drawing visitors seeking a spiritual and scenic getaway. It is an ideal driving destination for couples and close friends, offering unforgettable sights along the way. In this guide, we will introduce some of the most popular spots in Suzu Cape, perfect for planning your next adventure!

What is Suzu Cape? The Scenic Cape at the Tip of the Noto Peninsula

Suzu Cape refers to a collection of capes located at the northernmost tip of the Noto Peninsula, including Rokkozaki, Kongozaki, and Nagatezaki. Among these, Kongozaki is particularly well-known as the "Sanctuary Cape."

The name "Suzu" has been in use for centuries, appearing in historical records as early as 713 AD in wooden tablets found in Heijo-kyo (ancient Nara). In 733 AD, the Izumo Fudoki (an ancient regional record) referred to the cape as Tsutsu, suggesting that the name was pronounced that way in the Izumo region.

There are several theories regarding the origin of the name. One popular belief is that the poet Otomo no Yakamochi, upon visiting Noto Province, was so captivated by the pearlescent beauty of the coastline that he composed a long poem about it, dedicating his thoughts to his wife back in the capital. This suggests that Suzu Cape has long been admired for its stunning scenery.

Getting to Suzu Cape – A Car is Essential

To reach Suzu Cape from Kanazawa City, it takes about 140 minutes via the Hokuriku Expressway (Kanazawa Morimoto IC) and Noto Satoyama Kaido-Suzu Road. If traveling from Noto Satoyama Airport, the journey takes about 70 minutes via the Noto Satoyama Kaido (Noto Satoyama Airport IC) and Suzu Road.

Although there are bus services from Kanazawa Station, transfers are required along the way. For the most convenient travel experience, using a car is highly recommended.

Rokkozaki Lighthouse – The Northernmost Tip of the Noto Peninsula

The northernmost point of the Noto Peninsula is Rokkozaki Cape, home to a beautiful white stone lighthouse that stands out in the open landscape. This is the Rokkozaki Lighthouse, built in 1883 during the Meiji era. Designed by a British architect, its elegant white exterior enhances the romantic atmosphere of the cape.

In 2017, it was designated as a "Lover’s Lighthouse" by the Japan Romanticist Association and the Nippon Foundation as part of the Lover’s Lighthouse Project. Although it is an unmanned lighthouse, public viewing events are held several times a year.

Located where the Uchiura and Sotoura seas meet, Rokkozaki Cape is a rare spot where visitors can witness both the sunrise and sunset over the ocean, making it a must-visit scenic location.

Breathtaking Views from the Sanctuary Cape – Featuring a Skywalk Observatory

The Noto Peninsula is where warm and cold ocean currents converge, creating the unique and mystical landscapes that define Suzu Cape. At Kongozaki, known as the "Sanctuary Cape," there is an aerial observatory called "Skybird," which rises 9.5 meters above the cliff, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

From this vantage point, visitors can see a seascape dotted with towering rock formations. The point where the ocean currents merge results in striking differences in the sea’s colors and wave movements, creating a grand and awe-inspiring spectacle. As one takes in the natural beauty and the sheer power of the ocean up close, a deep sense of reverence naturally arises.

Skybird also features a section that juts out into the air, providing an extraordinary and thrilling view. However, those with a fear of heights may want to proceed with caution.

While there is an entrance fee for Skybird, beyond the observatory lies a walking trail. Continuing along this path leads to another viewpoint, offering yet another stunning perspective of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the aerial observatory, Kongozaki is home to several other fascinating attractions, such as the "Blue Cave," where the sea appears vividly blue depending on the time of day, stone-carved monuments, and "Yoshitsune's Funagushi," a historical site. These locations are well worth visiting alongside the observatory.

Romantic Accommodations – The "Lamp no Yado" Inn

Overlooking Kongozaki Cape, the "Lamp no Yado" (Inn of Lamps) is a charming, secluded inn that has become a favorite among travelers visiting this spiritual power spot.

The highlight of this inn is its open-air hot spring bath, which allows guests to soak in a breathtaking natural setting. The warm, soothing waters are perfect for relaxing after a long journey.

Inside the inn, 50 softly glowing lamps create an enchanting and nostalgic ambiance, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Kongozaki for an extended stay or enjoy a romantic getaway.

◎ Extend Your Journey with a Scenic Drive to Wajima

Suzu Cape is widely regarded as a spiritual power spot, home to breathtaking locations such as Rokkozaki, which offers romantic coastal views, and Kongozaki, known as the "Sanctuary Cape." However, if you extend your exploration to the neighboring city of Wajima, you will discover a different kind of charm, including the stunning terraced rice fields of Senmaida and the vibrant morning markets filled with local specialties. Taking a scenic drive through the Noto Peninsula allows you to fully appreciate its natural beauty, making the journey itself an enjoyable experience. If you are looking for a meaningful getaway with a loved one or close friends, a road trip to Suzu Cape and Wajima in Oku-Noto is highly recommended.

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Experience the Breathtaking Views from Suzu Cape! One of Japan’s Top Three Power Spots in Ishikawa Prefecture