Yonaguni Island – Okinawa

2025-09-05

Located at the westernmost point of Japan, Yonaguni Island is part of Okinawa Prefecture and lies only about 110 kilometers from Taiwan. Remote, rugged, and mysterious, the island is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, wild horses, and the famous Yonaguni Underwater Ruins.

With its unique location, Yonaguni offers a blend of untouched natural beauty, intriguing legends, and one of the best diving spots in Japan, making it a paradise for adventurous travelers.

Why Visit Yonaguni?

Stand at Japan’s westernmost point, marked by Cape Irizaki
Discover the mysterious Yonaguni Underwater Ruins, resembling an ancient sunken city
Experience spectacular diving and hammerhead shark encounters
See the island’s wild Yonaguni horses grazing freely in open fields
Enjoy the remote and peaceful charm of an island at the edge of Japan

Highlights

Yonaguni Underwater Ruins
Discovered in 1986, these massive stone formations lie beneath the sea. Some believe they are natural; others claim they are the remains of an ancient civilization. Diving tours allow you to see this mystery up close.

Cape Irizaki
The westernmost point of Japan, offering panoramic ocean views and a chance to see the sun set into the East China Sea.
Hammerhead Sharks
From late autumn to early spring, divers can encounter schools of hammerhead sharks—a bucket-list experience for scuba enthusiasts.
Wild Horses (Yonaguni Uma)
Small native horses, unique to the island, can be seen grazing freely on the open fields near the cliffs.

Tategami Rock & Rugged Coastline
Yonaguni is ringed with steep cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and turquoise seas, perfect for sightseeing and photography.

Access

By Air: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Naha (Okinawa) or 30 minutes from Ishigaki by direct flight.
By Ferry: About 4 hours from Ishigaki Island (service may be affected by weather).

Why Yonaguni Island Is Special

Yonaguni is a place where myth, mystery, and raw nature meet. From its legendary underwater ruins to thrilling dives with hammerhead sharks and stunning sunsets at Japan’s westernmost edge, Yonaguni offers experiences found nowhere else in the country. For travelers seeking adventure, history, and breathtaking seascapes, Yonaguni is truly unforgettable.

Related articles