A thorough explanation of the mystery of the Yonaguni Island underwater ruins (undersea topography)! Are they manmade or natural? We also introduce how to get there and tours!

July 21, 2024

The Yonagunijima Undersea Ruins are one of the must-see spots when you go to Yonaguni Island. Discovered in the late Showa period, their mysterious appearance continues to fascinate visitors to Yonaguni. This time, we will introduce the history, background, and how to visit these undersea ruins.

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The mysterious underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island

The underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island were discovered by local divers in 1986, and due to their enormous structure and elaborate shape, it has been debated whether they are natural or man-made. These mysterious underwater ruins continue to fascinate divers, archaeologists, and tourists from all over the world.

On the map, it is located in the southeastern part of Yonaguni Island.

History leading up to the discovery of the underwater ruins

The underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island were first discovered relatively recently by Kihachiro Shintaka in 1986. Local diver Tatsuo Kinjo is said to have discovered the huge stone structure while exploring the ocean floor off the south coast of Yonaguni Island. Since the discovery, many divers and scientists have visited the site, and research and discussion continues.

The underwater ruinsNatural landform theory

The theory that the underwater ruins are natural formations is supported by geologists and oceanographers. They claim that the underwater topography of Yonaguni Island was formed by geological processes, particularly earthquakes, uplift, and erosion. Naturally formed step-like structures and linear cracks seem to be geologically explainable.

The underwater ruinsancient ruin theory

On the other hand, there is a strong theory that the underwater ruins are relics of an ancient civilization. Some archaeologists and history buffs believe that the shape and layout of the ruins are artificial and that they were built by ancient people for some purpose. In particular, some see the linear incisions and stepped structures as the result of human work.

I think it would be more interesting from a human romantic perspective to meet them at ancient ruins.

Access to the underwater ruins

How to go by diving

The most common way to access the underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island is by diving. By joining a tour offered by a dive shop, you can safely explore the ruins with a professional guide. The water is about 25 to 30 meters deep and the currents can be strong, so it is recommended for experienced divers.

Especially in winter, it is only for divers who have made more than 100 dives, so you should not think of it as a place you can go for a casual dive.

How to get there by glass bottom boat

For those who are not good at diving or beginners, we recommend a glass-bottom boat tour. Glass-bottom boats have a glass bottom, allowing you to enjoy the underwater scenery. This allows you to observe the mysterious appearance of the ruins without diving directly.

More informationHerePlease see.

You can go snorkeling?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island by snorkeling due to the deep water and strong waves. For safety reasons, we recommend choosing diving or a glass-bottom boat tour.

Enjoy the world-famous underwater ruins!

The underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island attract visitors with their mysterious charm. It is a challenging spot for divers and a fascinating place for those interested in history and archaeology. Tourists can enjoy the magnificent scenery while learning more about the ruins with a local guide. When you visit Yonaguni Island, be sure to experience these mysterious underwater ruins.

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A thorough explanation of the mystery of the Yonaguni Island underwater ruins (undersea topography)! Are they manmade or natural? We also introduce how to get there and tours!

The mysterious underwater ruins of Yonaguni Island

History leading up to the discovery of the underwater ruins

The underwater ruinsNatural landform theory

The underwater ruinsancient ruin theory