Geographical environment of Yonaguni Island
Yonaguni Island's Natural Environment
Yonaguni Island is located in Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture, and is the westernmost island of Japan. It covers an area of approximately 28.95 square kilometers and is blessed with a rich natural environment. The island has a subtropical climate and is warm throughout the year. Typhoon season is from June to October, but the weather is relatively mild the rest of the year. The island is home to rare plants and animals, including the Yonaguni horse and the Yonaguni butterfly, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.
Social environment of Yonaguni Island
Yonaguni Island's economy is mainly dependent on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Its famous specialty products are Yonaguni brown sugar and Yonaguni shochu. In terms of tourism, the island is popular as the filming location for the movie "Dr. Koto's Clinic," and the beautiful ocean and abundant nature of the diving spots attract tourists. In recent years, the establishment of a Self-Defense Force base has also had a major impact on the local economy.
Economic environment of Yonaguni Island
The social environment of Yonaguni Island is characterized by a community with strong ties between residents. Although educational and medical facilities are limited, the culture of mutual support is deeply rooted in the local community. The establishment of a Self-Defense Force base has strengthened the defense capabilities of the region and increased the sense of security.
Population increase due to the Self-Defense Forces
Settlements and population of Yonaguni Island
Population of Sonai village
Sonai Village is the largest village on Yonaguni Island and is the administrative and commercial center. It has a population of about 900 people and is home to many of the facilities and shops that are central to island life. It is also an easy place to visit for tourists.
Population of Kubura village
Kubura village is a fishing village located in the northwest part of the island. It has a population of about 500 people, and their lives revolve around the fishing port. It boasts an abundance of seafood and is a popular spot for tourists.
Ships coming from Ishigaki also stop at Kubura Port.
Population of Hikawa village
Hikawa Village is located in the southern part of the island and is known for its natural environment. It has a population of about 200 people and its main industries are agriculture and tourism. It is also famous as the location for the movie "Dr. Koto's Clinic."
What is the age distribution of the population on Yonaguni Island?
The total population of Yonaguni Island is about 1,600, but the population is aging. The outflow of young people has become an issue, and there is a need to revitalize the area. Although the number of young people settling here has increased due to the Self-Defense Forces being stationed here, the proportion of elderly people remains high.
Yonaguni Island population change
Yonaguni Island's population has been declining over the past few decades, but the establishment of a Self-Defense Force base has dramatically changed the situation.
Population increase due to the Self-Defense Forces
The Effects of the Self-Defense Forces
Yonaguni Island was once mocked for having only two handguns as its defensive capability, but the establishment of a Self-Defense Force base there has significantly strengthened the region's defense capabilities. As a result, the island's population has increased, with young people in particular increasingly settling on the island. Multi-grade classes at schools have also been eliminated, improving the local educational environment. It has also contributed to the revitalization of the local economy.
Will the population continue to increase as the Self-Defense Forces grow?
Plans to expand the Self-Defense Forces are underway, and further population growth is expected. In addition to strengthening defense, this will also contribute greatly to the development of the local economy. Yonaguni Island's development is expected as part of regional revitalization.
Visit Yonaguni Island early
Yonaguni Island is a tourist destination that is attractive for its beautiful nature and unique culture. It attracts many tourists with its diving spots and the location where the movie "Dr. Koto's Clinic" was filmed. However, as the number of tourists increases, restrictions may be imposed on underwater ruins in the future. Please visit early and enjoy the charm of the island to the fullest.
Yonaguni Island is an island located at the westernmost tip of Japan, with beautiful nature and a rich culture. The establishment of a Self-Defense Force base there has strengthened the region's defense capabilities, and has led to an increase in population and revitalization of the local economy. Yonaguni Island also has many attractions as a tourist destination, and is expected to continue to develop in the future, so be sure to visit.
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