Yonaguni Island, the westernmost island of Japan.
It is the westernmost island of Japan, located just 111 km from Taiwan.
The island is filled with the atmosphere of old Okinawa, with a unique culture including dialect and festivals, and an exotic atmosphere.
In recent years, it has become well known as it was used as a filming location for the TV drama "Dr. Koto's Clinic."
Yonaguni Island MAP
Agarizaki
Agarizaki
A cape on the eastern tip of Yonaguni Island.
It is a steep cliff with a white lighthouse built on it.
The area is covered with green grass and pastures where cows and Yonaguni horses, native to Yonaguni Island, are grazing.
On a clear day, you can see Iriomote Island in the distance to the east.
Tachigami Rock
It stands vertically in the sea south of Sanninudai, a scenic spot in the southeast part of the island, and is revered as a sacred rock.
Legend has it that long ago, a young man climbed to the top of Tategamiiwa to collect seabird eggs, but was unable to get down. He prayed to the gods and was able to return safely to Sanninudai.
Irizaki
Irizaki
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Taiwan from this westernmost cape in Japan.
There is an observation deck, a lighthouse, and a monument marking the westernmost point of Japan on the cape.
From the observation deck you can get a panoramic view of the entire island and enjoy the flow of the Kuroshio Current and the setting sun.
Tindavana (Tindahanatha)
A natural observation deck located almost in the center of the island at an altitude of 85m.
In addition to offering views of the village and the East China Sea, this is the spot where you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the moonrise.
In the shade of the rocks there is a spring with an abundant flow of sacred water, which is used in the island's rituals.
Shikinajima Clinic (Dr. Koto Clinic)
Shikinajima Clinic (Dr. Koto Clinic)
Yonaguni Island was also used as a filming location for the hugely popular TV drama "Dr. Koto's Clinic," which began airing in 2003.
You can tour the sets actually used in filming, and the waiting room and hospital rooms have all been left as they were.
The incredibly detailed filming locations are sure to be enjoyed by anyone, even if they're not a fan of the show.
Chomeisou (longevity grass)
Chomeisou (longevity grass)
A plant of the parsley family that takes root on cliffs along the sea.
On Yonaguni Island, it has long been used in rituals praying for health and longevity, as well as in religious ceremonies praying for bountiful harvests.
It is rich in dietary fiber, minerals, and vitamins, and is commonly eaten locally in the form of tempura.
Marlin
Yonaguni Island benefits from the Kuroshio Current and boasts the highest marlin catch in Japan.
Locally, it is mainly eaten as sashimi or marinated in rice bowls, and "kandaiyu (dried swordfish)" is a popular souvenir.
Every July, an international marlin fishing tournament is held, attracting many skilled anglers in the hope of catching a large marlin.