Yonaguni is the furthest west island of Japan, so much so that Taiwan can be seen from the Island. From abundant marine life, historical sites, unexplainable mysteries beneath the sea, the world’s largest moth, and native species Yonaguni horse, there’s endless fun waiting to be had on this remote island.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Yonaguni
- Best Attractions and Activities in Yonaguni
- Dining at Yonaguni
- Access to Yonaguni
- Takeaway
Introduction to Yonaguni
Geography and Population
Part of the Yaeyama Islands, Yonaguni 与那国 is located in Okinawa Prefecture. It is the westernmost island of Japan and therefore the last place in the country to see the sunset. Aside from that, the Island is just a little over 100 kilometres from Taiwan. On certain days, it is even possible to see the mountains of Taiwan from the island.
Although a hugely popular tourist destination, Yonaguni is a relatively small place with a population of a little over 1,600 people and a land area of approximately 28.95 square kilometers. As part of Okinawa, it experiences a subtropical climate and sunny warm weather. Perfect for horse-riding, beach activities, and water sports.
※ Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau, “Yonaguni Island” ※ Yonaguni-chou, "人口と世帯数"
Aquatic Abundance of Yonaguni
Among the most common activities on the island are scuba diving and seeing some of the island's nature and wildlife, such as the Atlas Moth (they’re HUGE!) and protected native species Yonaguni Horse.
Also, the island’s waters is home to the Yonaguni Monument, also known as the "underwater ruins". There is ongoing debate as to whether the underwater stone formations are natural or man-made because they are perfectly shaped.
Fishing, agriculture, and tourism are the primary source of income for Yonaguni’s inhabitants. With clear clean turquoise Okinawan waters, visitors enjoy fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving to see the beautiful coral and interesting rock formations, as well as numerous marine life in one of the hidden gems of the world.
※ Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau, “Yonaguni Island” ※ Japan National Tourism Organization, "Yonaguni Island (Yonagunijima)"
Writer's Pick
Best Attractions and Activities in Yonaguni
Aside from its popular stunning sunset view, Yonaguni has a lot more to offer. From historical sights, where visitors can learn about the island’s culture, to exciting and fun-filled underwater activities!
Main Attractions
Cape Irizaki
The highest point on the island, many tourists visit this spot to catch a look at Taiwan across the sea. It is a relatively easy hiking area to enjoy the sunset and sunrise. What’s more, the view of the ocean, city, and beaches below is also an impressive sight. There is also a monument here attesting to the fact that this is the westernmost point in Japan.
Irizaki Lighthouse
On Cape Irizaki, Irizaki Lighthouse 西埼灯台 stands tall and proud as a beacon on the westernmost edge of Japan. It flashes a single burst of light every 5 seconds. At the base of the lighthouse, you may encounter local inhabitants of Yonaguni - the domestic breed of Yonaguni horses that frequently roam the pastures around the area. They are pony-sized and quite adorable.
Yonaguni Submarine Ruins
Yonaguni Submarine Ruins, also known as the underwater monument, is one of the most interesting tourist attractions on Yonaguni Island. The pyramid like monument is a topic of great debate amongst scholars on whether it is a natural phenomenon or man-made structure from an ancient lost society.
The supposedly ancient ruins were first discovered by divers in the 1980s when they noticed the steadily elevating ground resembling steps. The discovery garnered nationwide attention and even drew focus from around the world. One of the theories as to its natural formation is that these were formed by years of underwater currents, and the supposed carvings are just surface scratches. Its true identity remains wrapped in mystery.
※ Japan National Tourism Organization, "Yonaguni Underwater Ruins" ※ Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., "Yonaguni Monument"
Urano Tombs
This graveyard is home to thousands of graves gradually accumulated since the year 1400. Shockingly, the graveyard has more “occupants” than there are inhabitants in Yonaguni. Way to feel outnumbered by the dearly departed. The graves are set up facing the ocean, a pleasant view to enjoy even from the afterlife. Although it may feel like a lonely desolate place, it is not so as the serene atmosphere makes one at peace.
Ayami Babil Hall (Atlas Moth Museum)
Ayami Babil Hall アヤミハビル館 is a museum dedicated to the creatures of Yonaguni Island including the world’s largest moth, the Atlas Moth.
What is Ayami Babil?
Curious to know why the museum is named as such? Ayami Babil means Atlas Moth in the Yonaguni language, a Southern Ryukuan language passed down through generations. The Yonaguni dialect is one of 8 endangered languages as recognized by UNESCO. Actually, it is THE MOST endangered language in Japan with a status of “severely endangered”.
※ UNESCO Atlas of the World's Languages in Danger
Located in the eastern half of Yonaguni, this museum features the world’s largest moth with a wing span of 24cm. Note that all the museum information plaques and documentary video is in Japanese, so it will not be as fun for visitors with limited Japanese capabilities.
Entrance Fee: 500 yen
※ Churashima Monogatari, “Ayami Babil Hall” (JP)
Activities to Enjoy on the Island
With a subtropical climate and surrounded by seawater and beaches, there’s plenty of fun things to do besides just enjoying the scenery.
Diving & Snorkeling
One of the most exciting activities that visitors can do in Yonaguni is exploring its breathtaking underwater sceneries through diving and/or snorkeling. Have a go at it for a rare experience. Meet hammerhead sharks and witness huge underwater ruins.
Surfing
Okinawa is not only one of the best diving destinations in the world, but it is also one of the most beautiful. This is due to its warm sparkling waters, abundant marine life, and over 200 different coral species. Aside from that, it is also considered one of the best surfing spots.
Fishing
Freshly caught fish is a foodie’s delight on this island. To make it even more special, have a meal of your own caught fish. Deep-sea sport fishing tours are available for fishing enthusiasts to try their hand at hauling in a monster catch. And through live baiting tours, visitors will be able to experience catching marlins. Take note that the best fishing season is from February to November.
Dining at Yonaguni
Besides its stunning views of the ocean, you also get to dine on the ocean’s inhabitants with amazing seafood restaurants. Here are some recommendations to grab the best bites:
Uminchu Shokudo
Uminchu Shokudo is considered a hidden gem for tourists. It's a casual diner that serves affordable food, be prepared to spend around 1,500 yen per meal per person. They specialize in fish and seafood dishes, Okinawa soba, and Teishoku.
※ Tablelog, “海人食堂”
Sazankoru
Also frequented by locals, Sazankoru is an Izakaya specializing in seafood and Okinawa cuisine. Frequent diners love getting the marlin sashimi カジキの刺身 here, other marlin dishes include butter fried marlin and miso fried marlin. Sounds delicious? Well, it really is. Don’t miss out on the other Okinawan and Yonaguni local cuisine.
※ Tablelog, “サザンコール”
Island Cuisine Isun
Another Izakaya on the list, and also a local favourite. With 4.3 stars rating on Google by 168 people, mostly Japanese, that attests to the popularity of this Izakaya. Isun specializes in seafood and sansai 山菜 dishes. Their specialties are marlin aka Kajiki sashimi and wild mountain vegetables (sansai). We recommend calling ahead to reserve a table as this hotspot fills up fast.
※ Tablelog, “島料理 海響” ※ Yonaguni Island Cuisine Isun
Access to Yonaguni
There are two ways to get to Yonaguni from Okinawa, by ferry or by plane. Once you reach the island, there is a local bus but some places can only be reached by foot, bicycle or cab.
By Ferry
On Tuesdays and Fridays 10am, a ferry departs from Ishigaki Port to Yonaguni Island’s Kubura Port located west of the Island. The trip takes around 4 hours and costs 3,563 yen one way.
The returning ferry from Yonaguni Island to Ishigaki Island operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10am; in other words, the same time the next day.
By Plane
You can either
1. Fly to Yonaguni directly from Naha Airport (Okinawa Mainland)
JAL’s Ryukyu Air Commuter (RAC) offers direct flights to Yonaguni which takes 1.25-hours. It costs from 20,000 to 35,000yen.
2. Fly from Naha to Ishigaki and then take the ferry to Yonaguni.
For more about Ishigaki, check our dedicated article
Ishigaki Island, Not Just A Transport Hub to Smaller Okinawa Islands
※ Visit Okinawa Japan, “Yonaguni Island - Access to Yonaguni Island” “Ferries” “Flights”
Takeaway
A trip to Yonaguni Island is a unique experience. How many people can say that they’ve been to the western edge of Japan and seen Taiwan? Admire the marvellous ocean views and underwater scenery . If you’re looking for a tropical getaway with lots of sunny beaches, look no further. As a final tip, we recommend bringing cash as this remote island isn’t very credit card friendly.
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