- RV Travel: Watching Sunrise Against Untouched Nature and Magnificent Landscapes!
- 1. Rokugosaki Lighthouse (Ishikawa Prefecture)
- 2. Matsushima Bay (Miyagi Prefecture)
- 3. Oga Peninsula, Kanpuzan (Akita Prefecture)
- 4. Kesennuma Oshima (Miyagi Prefecture)
- 5. Jodogahama (Iwate Prefecture)
- Conclusion — Sunrise Watching on RV Travel
RV Travel: Watching Sunrise Against Untouched Nature and Magnificent Landscapes!
Traveling by RV is the ultimate outdoor experience that balances freedom and comfort. Particularly the Hokuriku and Tohoku regions, with their untouched nature and magnificent landscapes spreading out, are ideal areas for watching sunrises. RVs are not just transportation means, but mobile “second homes” integrating accommodation and dining. Even during cold winter early mornings, waiting for sunrise moments in warm vehicle interiors while feeling nature’s breath up close is the essence of RV travel.
This time, we carefully selected and introduce 5 sunrise spots to visit by RV in the Hokuriku and Tohoku regions. We’ll share each spot’s mystical charm, surrounding famous places and markets worth visiting, along with precautions for year-end and New Year visits.
1. Rokugosaki Lighthouse (Ishikawa Prefecture)
“New light welcomed from earth’s edge”
Rokugosaki Lighthouse is an iconic spot located at Noto Peninsula’s northernmost tip. The sun slowly rising from the horizon, dyeing the Sea of Japan and mountains golden, is breathtakingly beautiful. At the moment the sun breathes new life into Earth, you can feel nature’s greatness with your whole body. The lighthouse surroundings are wrapped in silence, creating mystical spaces as if time had stopped.
Nearby Attractions
- Suzu Cape Power Spot “Sacred Cape”
Said to be where Earth’s energy can be felt, Noto’s hidden sanctuary. About 30 minutes by car from Rokugosaki Lighthouse. - Noto Town “Michi-no-Eki Suzunari”
Features restaurants where local specialties and Noto beef can be enjoyed, also recommended for ingredient procurement.
Parking Information
Free parking lots near the lighthouse. RVs should arrive early morning for better positioning.
Year-end New Year Congestion and Precautions
Many tourists visit on New Year’s Day for first sunrise, so arrive the previous night to secure parking spaces. Warm drinks and cold weather gear are essential.
2. Matsushima Bay (Miyagi Prefecture)
“God’s garden painted by heavenly light”
At Matsushima Bay, one of Japan’s three scenic views, you can enjoy collaboration between multi-island beauty and sunrise. The sun rising between countless islands reflects on the sea surface, creating mystical scenery. That appearance is like paintings drawn by gods. Matsushima Bay sunrises seen in winter’s crystal-clear air bring soul-purifying emotions.
Nearby Attractions
- Zuiganji Temple
Matsushima’s historic site. Solemn atmosphere where Zen spirit can be felt. - Matsushima Fish Market
Market where fresh oysters and local seafood can be tasted. Charcoal-grilled oysters are particularly popular.
Parking Information
Matsushima Tourism Association’s paid parking lots available. RV spaces also available.
Year-end New Year Congestion and Precautions
Matsushima Bay allows relatively smooth parking even on New Year’s Day, but nighttime arrival provides peace of mind.
3. Oga Peninsula, Kanpuzan (Akita Prefecture)
“Light curtain dancing on wind’s peak”
Kanpuzan on Oga Peninsula is a spectacular spot offering 360-degree panoramic views. With the Pacific Ocean on the east side and Sea of Japan on the west side, as the sun rises, sky and sea paint magnificent color gradations. This place is said to harbor wind mythology and will provide energy to visitors.
Nearby Attractions
- Namahage Museum
Facility where you can experience Oga Peninsula’s traditional culture “Namahage.” - Michi-no-Eki Oga “Ogale”
Popular roadside station where local seafood and specialties can be purchased.
Parking Information
Spacious parking lots near the summit where RVs can also park.
Year-end New Year Congestion and Precautions
Winter roads may be frozen, so studded tire equipment is essential.
4. Kesennuma Oshima (Miyagi Prefecture)
“Light rising from island embraced by sea”
Kesennuma Oshima floating in Sanriku’s sea is a hidden sanctuary-like place where silence and nature harmonize. The sunrise viewed from Kameyama Observatory at the island’s eastern tip is exceptional, with the sun illuminating the sea appearing as beautiful as heaven’s gates opening.
Nearby Attractions
- Kesennuma Fish Market
Market where fresh seafood caught off Sanriku coast can be obtained. Sea squirts are especially recommended in winter. - Rias Ark Museum
Facility exhibiting records of the Great East Japan Earthquake and recovery progress.
Parking Information
When crossing to Oshima by ferry, free parking lots on the island are available. RVs should park around the port area.
Year-end New Year Congestion and Precautions
Check ferry operation schedules in advance and using early morning services is recommended.
5. Jodogahama (Iwate Prefecture)
“Light’s miracle welcomed at the beach closest to heaven”
Jodogahama, a spectacular spot on Sanriku coast in Iwate Prefecture, boasts beauty like “Pure Land Paradise” as its name suggests. White rocks spreading along the coast and green pines shining golden in sunrise light create truly mystical scenes. Particularly winter mornings, thanks to clear air, scenery stands out distinctly, and sunrises seen on silent beaches wrapped in tranquility are moments that purify hearts and provide new vitality.
Nearby Attractions
- Jodogahama Visitor Center
Facility where you can learn about Jodogahama’s nature and history. Also convenient as a base for walks. - Miyako Jodogahama Rest House
Restaurant where dishes using local seafood can be enjoyed. Sanriku oysters are recommended in winter. - Michi-no-Eki Miyako Sea Pia Naado
Market selling Sanriku’s fresh seafood and specialties. Perfect for souvenir hunting.
Parking Information
Jodogahama’s free parking lots are available. Spacious enough for RV parking, but early morning arrival provides peace of mind to avoid congestion.
Conclusion — Sunrise Watching on RV Travel
The Hokuriku and Tohoku regions have many wonderful sunrise spots worth visiting by RV. Each place breathes with mystical landscapes created by nature alongside regional culture and specialties. Don’t neglect advance knowledge for fully enjoying sunrises. While paying attention to cold weather preparation and congestion conditions, please welcome memorable emotional mornings. Utilizing RV freedom and comfort, definitely enjoy special experiences at these spots!
※Please confirm in advance the year-end New Year closure days and operating hours of the nearby attractions introduced in each location. Also, those planning to visit especially during year-end and New Year should definitely check local snow accumulation and road traffic conditions in advance.
