hello everyone!
Japan's westernmost paradise,Munbu Resort on Yonaguni Islandis!
Yonaguni Island is one of the world's most famous places to encounter hammerhead sharks, and many divers visit to experience the spectacular sight.
In this article, we have compiled a clear summary from a local's perspective, including the best times to see hammerheads, the best spots to see them, and convenient places to stay when you actually come to Yonaguni Island.
The appeal of diving in Yonaguni Island - Why do hammerhead sharks gather there?
Yonaguni Island has an expansive open ocean area that is strongly influenced by the Kuroshio Current.Clear Yonaguni blue and dynamic terrainIt is characterized by:
It is known that due to the unique currents and changes in feeding grounds in this area, hammerhead sharks tend to appear in shallow waters seasonally.
However, since it is a natural encounter, there is no guarantee that you will meet someone."Timing and sea conditions" are major factorsIt will be.
Best season and encounter trends
The best season to catch hammerhead sharks on Yonaguni Island is generallyWinter to early spring (approximately December to March)It is said that...
During this period,"Hammer River"It is possible to observe dozens or even hundreds of fish passing through this current.
The time of day is affected by the tide and daily sea conditions, so you can increase your chances of encountering them by staying for a few days and choosing a day with good conditions.
It is recommended to check the latest sea conditions before traveling and during your stay.
Typical diving spots
The best spot to catch hammerhead sharks on Yonaguni Island is around Irizaki, near the westernmost tip of the island.
The area around Nishizaki has good offshore tides,"Hammerhead Lock"There are many areas where large fish tend to gather, and you can witness the spectacular sight of a school of hammerhead sharks passing by.
We recommend that you get the latest information on the characteristics of each point and the currents on the day after you arrive.
How to choose accommodation and stay on Yonaguni Island
When staying on Yonaguni Island, we recommend checking things like access from the airport, shuttle service, and whether breakfast and dinner are provided before choosing a place to stay!
Munbu ResortAccommodation, car rental, restaurants, toursIt is a tourist hub on Yonaguni Island that offers the following:
If you stay at Munbu Resort, you can use the pick-up service from diving shops on the island!
It is used by many divers every year!
After diving, why not try some special cuisine made with local ingredients at Yonaguni Island Munbu Kitchen?
| [Munbu Resort Basic Information] | |
| address | 4350-45 Yonaguni, Yonaguni-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa Prefecture |
| phone | 05054825930 |
| Official website | https://resort.mumbu.net/ |
Munbu Resort has multiple accommodations on Yonaguni Island, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. Here we will introduce four facilities: "Airport Front," "Sona," "Nanta Beach," and "Hikawa Beach," from the perspectives of access, facilities, and recommended stay styles.
①3 minutes walk to the beach!
Munbu Stay Nantahama
The crystal clear sea is right in front of you.The perfect beach base for a stroll or a relaxing stay.
②1 minute walk to the Dr. Koto filming location!
Munbu Stay Hikawahama
Quiet beach and good access to Nishizaki area.30 seconds walk to the filming location of Dr. Koto's Clinic!Recommended for those who enjoy the beach and road trips.
3. 2 minutes walk from Yonaguni Airport!
Munbu Stay Airport Front
Located close to the airport, it is convenient for arrival and departure days.Ideal for short stays or for overnight stays before or after a diving expedition.
④Standing in an island village!
Munbu Stay Sonai
Shops and restaurants are within walking distance,A location where you can experience the island's lifestyle and cultureRecommended for walking around town or traveling alone.
Checkpoints when choosing accommodation
- access:Distance from the airport/port, availability and time of shuttle service, luggage storage before and after check-in.
- Ease of booking:There are a wide variety of room types, and many rooms available for multiple nights and group reservations.
- activity:Availability of diving transfers, rental car arrangements, night tours, etc.
- Equipment:Wi-Fi, air conditioning, refrigerator.
- environment:Does it suit your preferred location, such as a quiet stay, staying in a village, or near the beach?
Reservation tips
- Make your reservation early during peak season: It gets crowded during consecutive holidays, the New Year holidays, summer vacation season, and diving season (December to March). Room types and shuttle slots tend to be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Advance notice for smooth operation: If you share your arrival/departure flights, number of dives, rental car preferences, etc., we will be able to guide you smoothly on the day.
- Munbu Resort is recommended: We will contact you in advance to follow up before your stay, so your itinerary will go smoothly!
Each area of Yonaguni Island has its own distinct character."Ease of movement" x "Things you want to do"Choosing a base like this can make a big difference in your satisfaction even if you only stay for a short time.
Make good use of each facility at Munbu Resort and enjoy a unique experience on Yonaguni Island.
(*Please check the official accommodation page for estimated accommodation rates, room types, and facility information.)
Enjoy the island's original cuisine at Munbu Kitchen
Recommended dishes
Island-themed restaurant attached to Munbu Resort"Yonaguni Island Munbu Kitchen"Here you can enjoy delicious cuisine made with plenty of island ingredients.
This time, we will introduce some recommended dishes that you should definitely try when visiting Munbu Resort.
1. Island Italian course where you can enjoy ingredients from Yonaguni Island with all five senses
Italian food on Yonaguni Island?You may think so, but this is also delicious.
Each dish contains a story of the island, allowing you to discover the charm of Yonaguni Island while you dine.
Wine pairingIt's perfect for a special night out.
②Okinawa Agu Pork Shabu-Shabu Set
When you think of Okinawa, you think of Agu pork!The sweetness and umami of the meat slowly spreads throughout your mouth, making you feel truly happy.
We recommend eating it with local vegetables and azami noodles, and finishing off with rice porridge.
3. Easy BBQ with no preparation or cleanup required
BBQ preparation is a lot of work... but don't worry!
Empty-handed authentic BBQYou can enjoy it.
They offer carefully selected meat, Yonaguni Island vegetables, and special sausages.The meat is especially delicious when served with Yonaguni salt and special sauce.is.
On a clear day, you can enjoy a BBQ while gazing at the starry sky, a luxurious experience you can't get in the city.
4. Spicy hotpot made with Okinawan Agu pork and Yonaguni island chili peppers
If you're craving something a little spicy, this spicy hotpot is highly recommended.
Homemade kimchi made with island chili peppers grown on Yonaguni Island and awamori sake leesThe sweetness of the Agu pork and the spicy soup are a perfect match!
Enjoy at Munbu Resort
Recommended Activities
At Munbu Resort,A variety of activities including traditional craft experiences on Yonaguni Island, island sightseeing, and stargazingWe have prepared the following.
Even on days when sea conditions make diving difficult, our strength is that we can find alternative ways to enjoy the experience.
1. Experience the traditional crafts of Yonaguni Island! "Kuba Folk Tools Making Experience Tour"
On Yonaguni Island, the westernmost island of Japan,Making Okinawa's traditional craft "Kuba Folk Tools"Why not give it a try?
Anyone can participate with confidence, from beginners to children and seniors.
A one-of-a-kind original folk tool to share with your travel memoriesYou can take it home.
②Go around the island with a guide! A sightseeing tour around the island
An island guide who knows the island inside and out will take you by car.Guide to the major tourist spots on Yonaguni IslandI will!
Introduction and explanation of each tourist spot,Leave all the photo-taking to the guide!
You can easily participate without having to make a rental car reservation!
◇Major tourist spots to introduce◇
①Higashizaki Lighthouse
② "Dr. Koto's Clinic" filming location
3. Hikawa Shoten (time available for souvenir purchases)
④Yonaguni sea salt
⑤Monument at the westernmost point of Japan
3. Night tour: observing wildlife and the starry sky
A guide who lives on Yonaguni Island will show you around the island at night.
Yonaguni Island has a uniqueCoconut crabs, Yonaguni sand slugs, and other creatures live hereI will do it.
Depending on the weather and season, you may be able to see a starry sky.The Southern Cross and the Milky WayYou can also see the following:
Tips for staying on Yonaguni Island
The opening hours of restaurants and shops on Yonaguni Island are different from those on the mainland, so please make sure to check in advance.Check restaurant opening hours and business status on the islandI recommend that you do so.
Also, travel times can be long due to cancellations or wave conditions, so it's a good idea to plan ahead.
Due to limited availability of rental cars and food,Contact your accommodation in advance and make a reservationIt's best to keep it that way!
Enjoy the unique flavors and scenery of the island, along with a location overlooking the sea.
Finally
Schools of hammerhead sharks can only be seen when special natural conditions are met.
The season from winter to early spring is particularly prone to full occupancy,Early booking is required.
Make sure to pre-book not only your accommodation but also your meals and activities to fully enjoy Yonaguni Island!
Munbu Resort isSupporting travelers' stay on Yonaguni IslandI will.
Please check the official website for the latest accommodation information and tour status, and be sure to experience a special encounter on Yonaguni.
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