Delivering the Sights of Cape Hedo, Japan’s Edge of the Land
At the very tip of Okinawa’s main island lies Cape Hedo.
Here you can enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea, stroll along well-maintained walking paths, discover historic monuments, and even relax at a café with local meals.
This article is based on my actual visit, bringing you the scenery and atmosphere of Cape Hedo through plenty of photos.
If you’d like more details about highlights and access, check the link below.
Cape Hedo offers a spacious free parking lot, large enough for peace of mind even during peak seasons.
The first thing you’ll see upon arrival by car is this wide-open parking area.
Even during the tourist season, plenty of cars can park here, making it stress-free for road trips.
Right next to the parking lot you’ll find a tourist information center and public restrooms—convenient for first-time visitors.
Nearby are Fushikubu Café and Cape Hedo Koyo Parlor, perfect for a meal or a quick break.
Walking the Scenic Trail
From the side of the parking lot, you can step onto the trail that winds around Cape Hedo.
The moment you pass the entrance, a green-covered path opens up, sparking excitement for the walk ahead.
As you continue, the vivid contrast of blue sky and greenery lifts your steps.
Soon, vast open skies and grasslands spread before you, creating a sense of stepping into another world.
The Struggle for Reversion Monument
Along the trail stands the Struggle for Reversion Monument.
This monument commemorates Okinawa’s return to Japan in 1972 after two decades under U.S. rule.
For 20 years, Okinawans longed for reversion, overcoming hardships and fighting tirelessly.
The inscriptions convey the pride and determination of those who pursued peace, and standing before it, the weight of history is deeply felt.
Cape Hedo is not only about beautiful views—it is also a place where you can reflect on the struggles and resilience of its people.
Breathtaking View Behind the Monument
Walking behind the monument, the view suddenly opens up to reveal the grandeur of sea and sky.
White waves pound the rugged rocks, embodying the raw power of nature. Beyond lies the endless horizon where sea and sky meet.
Shifting your gaze, a patch of green meadow spreads between the rocks, softening the landscape. The sky, clouds, sea, and land merge into one magnificent scene.
Karst Formations of Ancient Limestone
Further along, the karst landscape shaped by ancient limestone and lush greenery unfolds.
The contrast between rocks and meadows is striking, a landscape unique to Cape Hedo.
Looking back, endless open land stretches out, amplifying the scale of the cape. This is the true meaning of freedom.
Monument to Ties with Yoronjima
Continuing on, the Friendship Monument with Yoronjima stands against the ocean.
This monument symbolizes cross-border exchanges during Okinawa’s U.S. occupation.
The Pan’ouru statue, gifted from Yoronjima, means “flowers and coral” and represents good fortune with the form of a bird-fish hybrid.
At that time, traveling between Okinawa and mainland Japan required a passport. Yet, people still gathered and exchanged on the sea, making this monument’s message even more powerful.
Dramatic Cliffside Views
Toward the trail’s end, you can admire dramatic coastal cliffs.
The steep cliffs and the vivid blue sea below left me breathless.
Peeking down between the rocks, the dazzling blue ocean comes into view, blending thrill and beauty.
Trail Walk in About 20 Minutes
The walking trail takes about 20 minutes to complete at a relaxed pace—ideal for enjoying both nature and history.
On the way back, the trail opens under a wide sky, filling me with refreshing exhilaration.
Scenic Lunch at Fushikubu Café
After the walk, a meal at the café is a must.
Located on the second floor of the tourist information center, Fushikubu Café offers panoramic views while you dine.
The name “Fushikubu” comes from a local legend about a “star hollow” at Cape Hedo.
Inside, the wooden interior creates a calm, spacious atmosphere.
The window seats, with views of green and sea, are the best spots in the house.
I ordered Okinawa soba here.
Topped with grilled pork belly and red-and-white fish cakes, the soba had a gentle yet rich flavor.
Lifting the noodles, the aroma rose and sharpened my appetite.
There’s also the Cape Hedo Koyo Parlor near the parking lot—great for light bites depending on the time of day.
A Special Moment at Okinawa’s Northernmost Tip
What awaited at the end of the walk was more than scenery—it was the sense of achievement of standing at the very edge of Okinawa Island.
The blue sea and sky, the windswept meadows, and monuments telling stories of history—everything makes this place one of a kind.
Cape Hedo is best accessed by car, though buses are available with limited frequency. Planning ahead is essential.
Even so, I felt this is a destination worth every effort.
Where the Pacific Ocean meets the East China Sea—make your way to Cape Hedo.
For more details about highlights and access to Cape Hedo, check the article below.