What is the appeal of Yonaguni Island?
Yonaguni Island belongs to Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture, and is known as the westernmost island of Japan. Located about 111 kilometers from Taiwan, the island is filled with exotic scenery. Yonaguni Island's charm lies in its rich nature and unique culture. It is also famous as the filming location for the movie "Dr. Koto's Clinic," and there are many elements that attract tourists, such as a beautiful coastline, diving spots, and historical ruins.
What are Yonaguni Island's industries?
The main industries on Yonaguni Island are agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Tourism is particularly thriving, taking advantage of endemic species such as the Yonaguni horse and the Yonaguni butterfly. Cuisine made with the island's specialty Yonaguni brown sugar and local ingredients is also popular. In recent years, the establishment of a Self-Defense Force base has revitalized the local economy.
How to get to Yonaguni Island (by plane)
Direct flights available! From Ishigaki Airport to Yonaguni Airport
A direct flight from Ishigaki Airport to Yonaguni Airport takes about 30 minutes. Ishigaki Island is easily accessible from both within Japan and overseas, making it a major stopover point for tourists visiting Yonaguni Island. There are many flights, making it easy to use.
Yonaguni Island has many day trippers, most of whom depart from Ishigaki Airport.
Direct flights available! From Naha Airport to Yonaguni Airport
There are also direct flights from Naha Airport to Yonaguni Airport. The flight takes about an hour and a half. It is more convenient to fly directly from Naha, but many people choose to go via Ishigaki Island, as the flight price is much cheaper, even though it takes longer.
Generally, there are two flights per day (at 7am and around 12noon).
From Haneda Airport to Yonaguni Airport
From Haneda Airport, you can travel via Naha or Ishigaki. If you leave early in the morning, you can arrive on Yonaguni Island around 2 p.m.
Narita Airport to Yonaguni Airport
From Narita Airport, you can fly via Naha or Ishigaki. If you take an early morning flight, you can arrive at Yonaguni Island around 14:00. The best deal is to fly to Naha or Ishigaki with Peach and then connect to RAC (JAL).
Kansai International Airport to Yonaguni Airport
From Kansai International Airport, you can also fly via Naha or Ishigaki. As with Narita Airport, the cheapest option is to fly to Naha or Ishigaki Airport with Peach and then connect to RAC.
From Itami Airport to Yonaguni Airport
From Itami Airport, the only option is to fly via Naha. Since JAL is the only airline available, the price tends to be high.
From New Chitose Airport to Yonaguni Airport
The cheapest way to get from New Chitose is via Naha. Fly to Naha Airport with Peach, then transfer at Ishigaki and Yonaguni. This is the longest and most expensive trip in Japan.
From Fukuoka Airport to Yonaguni Airport
The cheapest way to get to Ishigaki from Fukuoka Airport is with Peach, and from Ishigaki with RAC. The flight time is shorter than other airports, so it's less of a hassle.
The cheapest way to get there! How to get to Yonaguni Island (ship/ferry)
Taking a ferry is the cheapest way to get there. It departs Ishigaki Port twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays) and takes about four hours. It leaves Ishigaki at 10:00 and arrives at Kubura Port in Yonaguni just after 14:00.
However, since it is easily affected by weather, care should be taken when making plans during typhoon season and winter.
Here is an article about actually riding it:HerePlease take a look. I honestly can't recommend it...
Recommended sightseeing spots on Yonaguni Island
Monument at the westernmost point of Japan
The Westernmost Point of Japan Monument, a symbol of Yonaguni Island, is a must-see spot for tourists. We recommend taking a commemorative photo here.
Dr. Koto Clinic
Shikina Island Clinic, famous as the filming location for the movie "Dr. Koto's Clinic," is a must-see spot for fans.
Hikawahama
You can relax on the beautiful beach and enjoy the crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkelling.
Higashizaki
This is a scenic spot located on the eastern end of Yonaguni Island. It is the perfect place to watch the sunrise. You can easily meet the Yonaguni horses.
Tategami Rock
This huge rock is the symbol of Yonaguni Island, and its majestic appearance is truly impressive.
Sanninudai
Sanninudai, also known as Gunkaniwa, is attractive for its unique shape. You can feel the power of nature here.
Kubra Bali Kubrakhshiri
The beautiful natural surroundings of Kubra Bali and Kubrakhshiri make for great hiking and picnic spots.
Nanta Beach
This beach allows you to enjoy the beautiful ocean of Yonaguni Island and also offers snorkeling.
Naama Beach
Enjoy a relaxing time on the quiet and private beach.
Tindavana
It is a place where you can enjoy the sound of the wind and waves along with the beautiful scenery.
6 Recommended Gourmet Options on Yonaguni Island
Many shops on Yonaguni Island are closed due to the island's low population. We recommend calling before you go to check if they are open and making a reservation.
Cafe & Bar Yonaguni Munbu Terrace
This café and bar serves locally sourced food, cocktails and a relaxing view.
It's located just a one-minute walk from the airport, so you can use it for a drink upon arrival or before heading back to Ishigaki.
There is also a hotel on-site, so if you are having trouble finding a place to stay, please contact them.
Island Cuisine Isuun
This is a restaurant where you can enjoy island cuisine made with fresh seafood. You can enjoy the local flavors. I recommend the island fish stew.
Border(Hmm)
This restaurant serves dishes made with ingredients unique to Yonaguni Island and is popular with tourists.
Wakana soba
This is a restaurant where you can enjoy the specialty dish of Yonaguni Island, "Yaeyama Soba." Be sure to try the local flavor.
Handmade bread & cafe Panes
This cafe serves homemade bread and delicious coffee, and is recommended for breakfast or a light meal.
Seberang Jaya
This restaurant serves Indonesian cuisine and offers a taste of the exotic world.
Book early and get a great deal on your trip to Yonaguni Island!
Yonaguni Island is becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination. Especially during the high season, accommodations and flights are crowded, so it is important to make reservations early. Use this article as a reference to plan a great trip to Yonaguni Island.
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