Kamoda Cape Lighthouse and Spectacular Ocean Views
Located in Tsubaki-cho, Anan City, Kamoda Cape forms part of Muroto-Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park. The cape is home to Kamoda Cape Lighthouse, a landmark that adds to the dramatic scenery at the edge of the land. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding sea and the small islands scattered offshore.
The line connecting Kamoda Cape Lighthouse with Kii Hinomisaki Lighthouse in Wakayama Prefecture is recognized as a boundary separating the Kii Channel from the Pacific Ocean. This maritime boundary is also relevant to the legal definition of the division between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific, near the entrances to Osaka Bay and the Seto Inland Sea.
A Coastal Habitat for Loggerhead Sea Turtles
The coastline around Kamoda Cape is known as a nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles. The surrounding waters and scattered offshore islands create a distinctive natural landscape, making the area particularly attractive to visitors who appreciate coastal scenery and wildlife. During the nesting season, these beaches are an important habitat for sea turtles, so visitors should take care to respect the natural environment.
Explore the Area Around Kamoda Cape
The surrounding area offers more than spectacular sea views. Visitors can discover a local hot spring, visit a historic shrine, and explore walking trails through the coastal landscape.
Kamoda Cape Hot Spring and Kadachi Shrine
West of the cape, approximately 2 kilometers away on higher ground, is Kamoda Cape Hot Spring, formerly known as Funase Onsen. To the north stands Kadachi Shrine, a place associated with ancient Japanese mythology. Maiko Island lies approximately 2 kilometers northwest of the cape, while I-shima, another island belonging to Anan City, is about 6 kilometers to the east.
Exploring these nearby places adds cultural and historical interest to a visit to the cape, complementing the area’s natural beauty.
A Pond Visited by Migratory Birds
Near the approach to Kamoda Cape is a pond that attracts migratory birds. The site has parking for approximately 10 vehicles and public restrooms, making it a convenient place to stop before continuing toward the cape.
A walking trail of approximately 4 kilometers runs around the surrounding area, offering opportunities to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. The combination of coastal landscapes, birdlife, and quiet walking paths makes this area appealing to nature lovers.
Relax at Kamoda Cape Hot Spring
Known today as Kamoda Cape Hot Spring, the facility formerly called Funase Onsen is a secluded hot spring destination near Shikoku’s easternmost point. Situated on elevated ground about 2 kilometers west of the cape, it offers open-air bathing with views across the Kii Channel.
On clear days, visitors may be able to see as far as Awaji Island and the coastline of Wakayama Prefecture. After exploring the cape, soaking in the hot spring provides a relaxing way to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Spring Water and Its Characteristics
The spring is classified as a low-tonicity, mildly alkaline simple hot spring. Its source temperature is approximately 41.4°C, with a flow rate of around 90 liters per minute. The water is known for its smooth, gentle feel on the skin and is popular with visitors seeking a relaxing bathing experience.
Bathing Facilities and Local Seafood
The main facility is the Anan City-operated Kamoda Cape Hot Spring Health Center, which offers day-use bathing. There is no accommodation at the facility, but its restaurant serves fresh seafood caught in the local area. It is a good place to combine a hot spring visit with a meal featuring the flavors of Tokushima’s coastal waters.
Access to Kamoda Cape Hot Spring
Public transportation to the hot spring is unavailable, so traveling by car is necessary. From National Route 55, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes. Several kilometers of the approach road are narrow, with limited room for vehicles traveling in opposite directions, so drive carefully and allow extra time for the journey.
Kadachi Shrine: Ancient Legends and Blessings
Kadachi Shrine is located in Tsubaki-cho, Anan City, near Kamoda Cape. Although its founding date is unknown, the shrine is associated with the famous Japanese myth of Inaba no Shiro Usagi, or the White Hare of Inaba, recorded in the ancient chronicle Kojiki.
In one interpretation of the legend, the place where the deity Okuninushi encountered the white hare is identified as Keta-no-saki. Some theories suggest that this location corresponds to Kamoda Cape, giving the surrounding area a connection to Japan’s ancient mythology.
The Wishing Hare
Within the shrine grounds is a statue known as the Nade Usagi, or Stroking Hare. Visitors gently touch the statue while praying for blessings, particularly good relationships and a long, healthy life. The shrine’s peaceful natural surroundings add to its atmosphere of quiet reflection.
Access to Kadachi Shrine
Kadachi Shrine is approximately 30 minutes by car from JR Anan Station and around 80 minutes by car from the Tokushima Interchange on the Tokushima Expressway. Set amid a lush natural landscape, the shrine offers an opportunity to experience the region’s cultural traditions alongside its coastal scenery.
Why Visit Kamoda Cape?
Kamoda Cape combines the appeal of a geographical landmark with a rich variety of natural and cultural attractions. Visitors can admire the rugged coastline, enjoy views of the offshore islands, and learn about the area’s importance as a nesting habitat for loggerhead sea turtles. Walking trails and a pond frequented by migratory birds provide further opportunities to appreciate the local environment.
A visit can also include a relaxing soak at Kamoda Cape Hot Spring and a stop at Kadachi Shrine to discover its connections with ancient Japanese mythology. Together, these experiences make the cape a rewarding destination for travelers exploring Anan City and southern Tokushima Prefecture.
Experience the Eastern Edge of Shikoku
With its lighthouse, expansive ocean views, wildlife habitats, secluded hot spring, and ancient legends, Kamoda Cape offers a memorable combination of nature and culture. Whether you come to walk along the coast, enjoy a scenic drive, discover local folklore, or unwind in a hot spring overlooking the sea, this remote corner of Tokushima provides a distinctive experience at the easternmost edge of Shikoku.