My traveling companion, Dr. Bung, atop the lighthouse at Zanpa Misaki.

To begin,let me acknowledge that there is equivocation over the name of the cape - Zanpa vs Zampa. You will find both in written tourist materials, written histrical documents, and on-line references. For the purpose of this feature I am using the name, with an "n", Zanpa.

The lighthouse at Zanpa Misaki has been a draw for me since the 1970s.
In 1986 I moved to aza-Oki and lived there in Yomitan Village for two years.
Made many trips to Zanpa - even one time during a typhoon!
- and always wished that I could get up into that lighthouse.
Well, lo-and-behold, the tourism industry has made it doable.
And, to the benefit of the local economy it has given the authorities a good
source of revenue as they have opened it up to the public.
For a mere 200 yen, and a long climb up a circular staircase, I had the opportunity
to finally get out there and do some imaging from the hight that I had for years desired.

So, ride along and let's take a look!

The view is phenomenal! Take your pick - landscapes nearby, landscapes in the distance, seascapes, etc.

It seems that regardless of weather conditions you'll always see die-hard fishermen.

That long white thing that you saw from the lighthouse that was flowing in the wind? Yup... happy bride!

You may have seen me pick up a brochure when I entered the Lighthouse Museum. This is it:




Besides the lighthouse there are a few other things worthy of note. At the top of my list is a huge statue dedicated to Taiki, the first Ryukyuan to venture forth by sea to establish trade relations with China. As one might guess, he is seen pointing toward the heart of China.

In my world, no site is completely evaluated or experienced without having taken a nip at whatever food might be available. Of course, I didn't find food at any of the caves that I explored, but whenever there's a concessionaire about I like to do a little business with them. It's good for the local economy and also satisfies my often hungry appetite.



















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