Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Cape Tappi is a cape at the northern tip of the Tsugaru Peninsula, located in Sotogahama Town (formerly Minnaya Town), Aomori Prefecture. Located at a windy strategic point where the Sea of Japan and the Tsugaru Strait meet, the cape is captivating with its majestic views of cliffs, expansive ocean, and Hokkaido on the opposite shore (or the Matsumae Peninsula, depending on the weather). Historically, it served as a key point on the shipping route, serving as a lighthouse and lookout, and is also significant as a symbol of preventing maritime disasters. It also boasts unique tourist attractions, such as a monument to the enka song "Tsugaru Kaikyo Fuyugeshiki" (Tsugaru Strait Winter Scenery) and a stepped national highway (National Highway 339, commonly known as the "Staircase National Highway"), making it a tourist destination where scenery and culture coexist.
Highlights
– Cape Tappi Observatory/Observation Space: Nearly 360-degree ocean views from the cliffs. On clear days, you can even see Hokkaido, and the sunsets and sunrises are also popular.
– Tappi Cape Lighthouse: The iconic lighthouse on the cape. A popular photo spot.
- Tsugaru Strait Winter Scenery Monument: There is a monument to the song and an explanatory plaque, allowing you to feel the scenery associated with the song.
– Staircase National Highway (National Highway Route 339): A rare section of national highway where the roadway is made up of stairs. Popular for photography and strolling.
– Tappi Cliffs and Coastline: A walking path where you can get a close-up look at the rough waves and cliffs. Telescopes are sometimes installed for observation.
- Roadside stations and surrounding information centers: They often have local specialty products, tourist information, and rest areas, and are convenient for purchasing local seafood and souvenirs.
(Highlights include the scenery on clear days, seabirds and fishing boats coming and going, and seasonal changes.)
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus/Taxi: The nearest station is Minmaya Station on the JR Tsugaru Line. From Minmaya Station, you can take a local bus or taxi towards the cape, but please note that there are few buses, so you will need to check the timetable.
- By car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Aomori City via national and prefectural roads (depending on traffic conditions and route). Access by car is convenient as there are parking lots available.
- Expressway buses and sightseeing buses: During the tourist season, sightseeing buses and seasonal buses from the Aomori area may be available. Please check the operation information in advance.
– Please note: Public transportation is limited, so it is safer to use a car or taxi, especially in the early morning, evening, and off-season.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: If you want to quickly see the observation deck, lighthouse, and monument, it will take 30 minutes to an hour.
- Leisurely sightseeing: 1.5 to 3 hours, including taking photos at the observation deck, strolling around the area, and taking breaks and eating at roadside stations.
- Itinerary for touring the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day is required, including nearby tourist facilities (such as facilities related to the Seikan Tunnel) and nearby walking trails.
The time required will vary depending on the weather and your means of transportation (public transportation or private car).
Nearby spots
- Roadside stations (Minmaya, etc.): Convenient for selling local specialties, providing tourist information, and resting.
– Stairway National Highway (National Highway 339): Recommended for sightseeing on foot (photo spot).
– Seikan Tunnel-related facilities and memorial museums (nearby): Facilities where you can learn about the history and technology of the Seikan Tunnel (we recommend checking opening hours and locations in advance).
Other attractions on the Tsugaru Peninsula include Lake Jusan (famous for its clams), the Tsugaru Railway (seasonal trains, stove trains, etc.), and the tourist spots of the Tsugaru Plain.
- View of Hokkaido to the north: If the weather is good, you can see the Oshima Peninsula and Matsumae area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Wind and weather: Cape Tappi is windy and the weather can change suddenly, so it is essential to take measures to protect yourself from the wind and cold (especially from autumn to spring). Visibility can also be reduced by sea fog and rain.
- Footing and safety: The footing near the cliffs is poor, so please be careful not to go inside the fences and be careful of slippery areas. Safety is your number one priority. Be especially careful if you are traveling with small children.
- Transportation and public transport: Public transport is infrequent, so please check the return bus schedule in advance. There are very few night buses.
- Crowds: Observation points and parking lots may be crowded during peak tourist seasons and holidays. Arrive early during popular times (sunset and sunrise).
- Manners: Please take your trash with you, do not damage the natural environment or facilities, and be considerate of other tourists and local residents. Please also treat monuments and memorials with care.
- Seasonal notes: In winter, roads may be closed or facilities may be closed due to frozen roads, snow accumulation, strong winds, or waves. Please check weather and road information in advance.
(Additional information) Tourist information, transportation times, and facility opening times are subject to change depending on the season and year, so we recommend checking the latest information at the Sotogahama Town Tourism Association, roadside stations, or JR timetables before visiting.
