A resident explains why driving is the best way to get around Yonaguni Island.

January 16, 2023March 30, 2024

This is Kishikoro from the Yonaguni@Yu editorial department.

This time, we will explain the information and tourist spots you will need when traveling around Yonaguni Island.

I lived on Yonaguni Island for a year, so I'll be explaining things based on my own experiences, so please use this as a reference when traveling around the island.

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If you want to get around Yonaguni Island, a car is recommended.

The conclusion is that the best way to get around Yonaguni Island is by car.

Yonaguni Island is a surprisingly large island, with a circumference of 28km, and there is a considerable slope in the southeast part of the island.

With the ultraviolet rays and heat in summer and the north wind in winter, riding a bicycle or motorbike can feel like a bit of an adventure and can be quite physically exhausting, so I think it's best not to push yourself.

It's hard to stay hydrated in the summer

There are only about 10 vending machines on Yonaguni Island.

Furthermore, there is no environment in which the vending machines can be adequately refilled, so there is a high chance that most cold drinks will be sold out in the summer.

The steeply sloping southeast land has no vending machines or stores. It would be pretty tough to cycle around the island in the hot summer sunshine of Yonaguni.

You can also take a sightseeing bus around the area.

Yonaguni Island has free public bus routes.

This bus is mainly used by tourists, and although there are few of them, it is convenient for getting to the island's tourist spots.

If you're staying for a few days, you could also take a bus around Yonaguni Island.

However, please note that it does not go to the east or southeast of the island.

summary

After living there for a year, I still recommend getting around Yonaguni by car.

Especially if you were to travel by bicycle in the summer, you would be desperate on the southeasterly slope, and you would be forced into a dangerous situation with no vending machines or anywhere to hydrate.

It's not that cold in winter, but the north wind is strong and it seems like it will drain your energy. There are buses, but I think it's better to travel by car if possible.