A power spot in Nanki Shirahama! Let’s go see the sunset at Takashima (Engetsu Island)

Takashima (Engetsu Island) is a scenic spot that represents Nanki Shirahama, along with Shirarahama Beach. It has been selected as one of the "100 Best Sunrise and Sunset Views in Wakayama," offering breathtaking scenery. At the same time, it is also popular as a power spot. During sunset, the unique silhouette of Takashima (Engetsu Island), with its round sea cave in the center, is illuminated by the setting sun, creating a mystical view.

In this guide, we will introduce the best spots to view the sunset at Takashima (Engetsu Island) and how to access them. Be sure to use this as a reference when traveling to Nanki Shirahama.

What is Takashima (Engetsu Island)?

Takashima (Engetsu Island) is located in the southwest of Wakayama Prefecture, in Shirahama Town, Nishimuro District. This small island measures 130 meters from north to south, 35 meters from east to west, and stands 25 meters tall. At its center, there is a sea cave with a circular shape, approximately 9 meters high and 8 meters wide. This unique feature has led to the island being affectionately called "Engetsu Island" (Moon Arch Island).

While the island’s natural beauty, shaped by centuries of wave erosion, is impressive, the true highlight is the breathtaking sunset view. As the evening sky glows, the silhouette of Takashima (Engetsu Island) emerges, creating a stunning and mesmerizing scene.

Best places and times to see the sunset

For those visiting Takashima (Engetsu Island), the best time to go is during sunset. Approximate sunset times are as follows:

Summer: Around 6:30 PM
Winter: Around 4:30 PM

During the 15-day period leading up to April 5–6, around the spring equinox (March 20–21), and around the autumn equinox (September 23), the sun sets directly into the round sea cave at the center of the island. This phenomenon creates a breathtaking and mystical view of the sun perfectly framed within the rock formation. Because of this rare sight, many tourists and photographers visit during these times.

Approximate sunset times during equinox periods:
Spring Equinox: Around 6:12 PM
Autumn Equinox: Around 5:56 PM

Since sunset times can vary slightly each year, it's recommended to check the exact sunset time on your planned visit day if you want to capture the perfect evening view.

Watching the sunset from a glass boat

A glass boat boarding area is located near Takashima (Engetsu Island), offering sightseeing tours on the Shirahama Undersea Sightseeing Boat. Departing from Rinkai, the boat takes passengers close to Takashima (Engetsu Island), allowing them to enjoy both the beautiful underwater scenery of Shirahama and the stunning sunset over the sea. Reservations are not required, so simply arrive at the boarding area before departure time.

Watching the sunset from the Engetsu Island viewing area

The Engetsu Island Viewing Area is the perfect spot to view Takashima (Engetsu Island) head-on.

Located along Prefectural Route 34, the spot offers a peaceful view of the sunset while enjoying the soothing sound of ocean waves. While it is a popular tourist destination, the open surroundings allow visitors to enjoy the scene without feeling crowded.

Watching the sunset from Misune foot bath

Misune Foot Bath is a free footbath hot spring located in front of Matsunoyu. Visitors can relax in the warm water while enjoying a view of Takashima (Engetsu Island). Since it is a natural, free-flowing hot spring rather than a recirculating system, it offers a clean and refreshing experience.

Access to Engetsu Island and nearby parking

Visitors can reach areas with a view of Takashima (Engetsu Island) by train or car.

▼ By train
Arrive at JR Shirahama Station, then take a bus for approximately 15 minutes. Get off at the "Rinkai" bus stop.

▼ By car (Private or Rental Car)
From the Hanwa Expressway Nanki Tanabe Interchange, drive approximately 15 km (about 20 minutes).

▼ Parking options

(Along Prefectural Route 34)
There is no dedicated parking lot for the Engetsu Island Viewing Area, but visitors can use the widened roadside space on the northbound side of the road as a parking area.

(Hongakuji Temple Parking Lot)
The closest paid parking lot is Hongakuji Parking Lot, about 780 meters away. This is a good option for those concerned about roadside parking.

(Shirarahama Parking Lot)
Located about 20 minutes on foot, this parking lot is recommended during peak tourist seasons.

(Misune Foot Bath Parking)
There are two free parking spaces available near Misune Foot Bath, ideal for visitors who want to relax in the foot bath while enjoying the sunset.

Accommodation options around Takashima (Engetsu Island)

Shirahama Town, where Takashima (Engetsu Island) is located, is a resort area in Wakayama Prefecture, famous for its hot springs and beautiful quartz sand beaches. The town offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and traditional ryokan inns. Here are two popular choices:

Shiraraso Grand Hotel

Located directly in front of Shirarahama Beach, Shiraraso Grand Hotel offers a prime location just 30 seconds on foot from the beach. The hotel features Japanese-style rooms, Western-style rooms, and connecting Japanese-Western rooms, most of which offer stunning ocean views.

The hotel also has a Royal Floor with a living-dining area, bedroom, and 6-tatami-mat Japanese space, as well as a VIP suite that has hosted members of the Japanese Imperial Family. For business travelers, compact mountain-side rooms are also available.

The hot spring baths use natural mineral-rich water with a slightly salty, smooth texture. There are two large baths which are the Isobe no Yu Matsukaze, where guests can enjoy the sound of ocean waves and the Chobo no Yu Shiokaze, offering a breathtaking view of Shirarahama Beach. Private baths are also available for a more secluded hot spring experience.

Takashima (Engetsu Island) is approximately 5 minutes by car or a 25-minute walk from the hotel, making it easy to explore the area on foot.

Nanki Shirahama Hamachidori no Yu Kaishu

Standing on a cape overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Nanki Shirahama Hamachidori no Yu Kaishu is a luxurious hot spring hotel with scenic paths and gardens that highlight the area's natural coastal beauty. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, including spacious 60-square-meter Japanese-Western suites and two-story maisonette-style rooms, most of which feature private open-air baths.

The hot springs come from two different natural sources, and the hotel features multiple large and open-air baths. Guests can enjoy a relaxing hot spring tour while admiring the surrounding landscape. With its stylish yet traditional ambiance, the hotel provides a high-end, immersive retreat experience.

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A power spot in Nanki Shirahama! Let’s go see the sunset at Takashima (Engetsu Island)