What is the best season to visit Yonaguni?
Yonaguni Island is located at the westernmost tip of Japan and is a tourist destination that is known for its beautiful nature and unique culture. However, the activities and sightseeing you can enjoy will vary depending on the season you visit. Here we will introduce in detail the best season to travel to Yonaguni Island.
For sightseeing, the best time is from the end of the rainy season to October
If you are visiting Yonaguni Island for general sightseeing purposes, the best season is from the end of the rainy season until October. During this time, the weather is stable and the temperatures are warm and comfortable. Especially from summer to early autumn, it is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.
I think that in October, when there are no typhoons, the heat has subsided and you can go to the beach, so it's very comfortable. July and August are nice and summery, but the heat is just too much.
If you want to dive, December to February is the season for hammerhead sharks.
If you are visiting for diving, the season for hammerhead sharks is from December to February. During this time, you have a better chance of spotting schools of hammerhead sharks in the waters off Yonaguni Island. Diving in the crystal clear winter waters will be an unforgettable experience.
Diving in Yonaguni is for advanced divers, and a good guide is to have more than 100 dives. Also, during the high season, reservations can fill up a year in advance, so make sure to make your reservation early.
How much does a trip to Yonaguni cost?
The budget for a trip to Yonaguni Island will vary depending on your departure point and travel style, but here we will introduce a general budget using a trip from Tokyo as an example.
Flights from Tokyo
There are no direct flights from Tokyo to Yonaguni Island, so it is common to go via Naha or Ishigaki. Below is an estimate of flight costs.
• Tokyo (Haneda) to Naha: Approximately 30,000 to 50,000 yen one way
• Naha to Yonaguni: Approximately 15,000 to 30,000 yen one way
• Total: Approximately 45,000 to 80,000 yen (one way)
The above prices are for one-way reservations, but if you make round-trip reservations or take advantage of transfer discounts, the cheapest price will be around 70,000 yen round trip.
If you use Narita instead of Haneda and book a round trip flight with Peach from Ishigaki to Yonaguni, you could get the trip for around 40,000 yen round trip.
Accommodation fee
There are various options for accommodation on Yonaguni Island, including hotels, guesthouses, and private lodgings. The approximate cost per night is as follows:
• Hotel: Approximately 8,000 to 15,000 yen per night
• Guesthouse: Approximately 4,000 to 8,000 yen per night
• Private lodging: Approximately 5,000 to 10,000 yen per night
Food expenses
The estimated daily food cost is as follows:
• Breakfast: 1,000 yen
• Lunch: 1,500 yen
• Dinner: 4,000 yen
Miscellaneous expenses such as souvenirs
You should budget about 3,000 to 5,000 yen per day for souvenirs and other incidentals.
Total Budget
For example, the total budget for a 3-night, 4-day trip is as follows:
• Flight: 40,000-80,000 yen (varies greatly depending on the season)
• Accommodation fee: 12,000-45,000 yen
• Food expenses: 22,500 yen
• Miscellaneous expenses: 12,000 to 20,000 yen
• Total: 96,500-167,500 yen
Due to the high number of flights, prices tend to be high. Rental car fees and activities are expected to cost 1.5 times more.
What should I bring when traveling to Yonaguni?
We will introduce what you should bring with you to ensure a comfortable trip to Yonaguni Island.
Luggage for a trip to Yonaguni: Clothing
T-Shirts
It doesn't matter how many T-shirts you have, you'll end up sweating.
Shirt with sleeves
The sun is strong, so it is useful to bring a long-sleeved shirt. It is also effective as an insect repellent.
Clothes to wear
This isn't really necessary in the summer, but it can get quite cold in the winter at night, so it's a good idea to bring a light cardigan or jacket.
By the way, even though the temperature was 20 degrees in the middle of winter, the wind was so cold that I had to wear a down jacket.
Sandals
Sandals are convenient for beaches and resorts. Choose ones that are easy to walk in.
It can also be purchased locally.
Luggage for your trip to Yonaguni: Sun protection
Sunscreen
Bring a strong sunscreen with you, such as SPF50, especially if you're doing ocean activities.
Be careful, if you go into the ocean without applying sunscreen, you could get burned.
sunglasses
Sunglasses are also an essential item for protecting your eyes from UV rays. Choose UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Be especially careful if you have weak eyesight.
hat
Wearing a hat is effective in preventing sunburn on the scalp and face. Wide-brimmed hats are especially recommended.
parasol
In midsummer, the sun is very strong, so a parasol is also useful. It is a good idea to use it when walking outside. (You will still get burned though.)
Luggage for your trip to Yonaguni: Rain precautions
Yonaguni Island can experience sudden rain, so don't forget to take precautions against rain.
Raincoat
You may not be doing much walking, but it's recommended for those who don't want to carry an umbrella.
umbrella
It can be used as a parasol as well. However, in winter, the wind is quite strong and it will break in one hit.
Yonaguni Travel Luggage: Daily Necessities
If it's windy, bring a sturdy umbrella, as your favorite umbrella may get damaged.
Insect repellent spray and insect bite medicine
Yonaguni Island is rich in nature, so it is important to take precautions against insects. Bring insect repellent spray and insect bite medicine with you.
There is no insect-free environment on Yonaguni Island.
Wet wipes
Wet wipes are also a must-have item, as they are useful for wiping your hands and face, and are especially useful when doing outdoor activities.
toiletries
Some accommodations may not provide shampoo or conditioner, so it's a good idea to bring your own.
This is especially essential for those who are particular about shampoo. Even if you forget, only regular shampoos are sold in Yonaguni.
Enjoy your trip to Yonaguni during the season that suits you
Yonaguni Island is a tourist destination with different charms in each season. Choose the best season based on your travel purpose and interests. Use this article as a reference to plan a wonderful trip to Yonaguni Island. Natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences await you.
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