How close is Yonaguni Island to Taiwan? Thorough explanation of distance, access, and ferry information
Table of Contents
- 1 How close is Yonaguni Island to Taiwan? Thorough explanation of distance, access, and ferry information
- 2 Shortest route and geographical relationship between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
- 3 How to get to Taiwan from Yonaguni Island
- 4 Cultural and Historical Connection between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
- 5 Recommended for tourists! Yonaguni Island and Taiwan Sightseeing Model Course
- 6 Exchange and Sister City Initiatives between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
- 7 summary
How close is Yonaguni Island to Taiwan?
Thorough explanation of distance, access, and ferry information
Yonaguni Island is located at the westernmost tip of Japan. Taiwan can be seen faintly in the distance to the west.
Many people are surprised at how close Japan and other countries are! Many people are surprised at how close Japan and other countries are!
In fact, the distance between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan is only about 111 km.So close that you can see the mountains of Taiwan with the naked eye.It is.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the distance between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan, how to access the island by ferry or plane, the cultural and historical connections, and useful information for sightseeing.
Let's think about the border-crossing trip and unravel the charm of the "foreign country right there" that can be seen from Yonaguni Island♪
◆ Those who are curious about the distance between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan and are looking up the distance between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan.
◆Anyone interested in the cultural and historical relationship between Japan and Taiwan.
◆ Those who are interested in local exchange and sister cities in Yonaguni Island and Taiwan.
Shortest route and geographical relationship between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
Yonaguni Island, Japan's westernmost island, is actually located very close to Taiwan.
Compared to Okinawa Island and Ishigaki Island, Yonaguni Island is the closest to Taiwan among Japanese territories,A special island where one can feel geographical and cultural ties with TaiwanIt is.
Straight line distance and time required between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
The straight line distance between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan (Hualien County or Taipei on the main island of Taiwan) is only about 111 km.
On a clear day, the mountains of Taiwan can be seen with the naked eye from Yonaguni Island, making it a rare place where one can truly be aware of the border.
In terms of distance alone, it is about the same as the distance between Tokyo and Shizuoka, and in theory it is possible to travel by boat or plane in less than an hour.
However, since there are currently no scheduled flights or direct ferry services, the actual travel time is generally several hours to half a day or more, including transfers.
Relationship between Japan and Taiwan's closest island
Yonaguni Island and Taiwan have a unique relationship in that they are the two islands that are geographically closest to each other in Japan and Taiwan, yet they do not have regular transportation systems in place.
Historically, it is also part of an ancient maritime trade route,Yonaguni Island also retains culture and legends that connect it to Taiwan!
In addition, due to its geographical proximity, Yonaguni Island also has some cultural elements and vocabulary that have roots in Taiwan, and has attracted attention among researchers as a "transnational cultural area.
How to get to Taiwan from Yonaguni Island
Travel from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan is currently more difficult than the straight line distance.
Multiple steps are required as there is no regular ferry or air service.
Below are the main possible access options currently available.
Are ferries in operation?
Latest Operation Status and Notes
As of April 2025,There are no regular ferry services between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan.
Some talk about charter flights and occasional sightseeing tours, but both are irregular and not suitable for general use.
Availability of ferries to/from Yonaguni Island and alternatives
Since there are no ferries directly from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan, a realistic route is to fly to Ishigaki Island, and from Ishigaki Island to Taiwan via airports in Naha, Fukuoka, or Tokyo.
There are also a certain number of tourists who travel to Taiwan via cruise ships and other means.
Can I fly to Taiwan?
Availability of direct flights and via
Yonaguni Island Airport does not currently have direct flights to Taiwan.
Therefore, it is necessary to take the route Yonaguni Island to Ishigaki Island (about a 30-minute flight), Ishigaki Island to Naha or Kansai/Fukuoka to Taiwan (Taipei/Kaohsiung).
How to get airline tickets from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan and the price
If you are taking a flight via,One-way between Yonaguni Island and Ishigaki Island is around 10,000 yen.
The total cost between Ishigaki Island and Taiwan (including transit) is approximately 30,000-50,000 yen, depending on the time of year.
LCCs may be even cheaper. Early booking is the key.
Cultural and Historical Connection between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
Due to their geographical proximity, Yonaguni Island and Taiwan have long been in contact with each other.
In modern times, it is also a focus of attention as a subject of cultural exchange and research.
Historical Background of Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
From prehistory to the present day
On Yonaguni Island, there is a structure called the "Yonaguni Undersea Ruins," which is thought by some to indicate a relationship with ancient Taiwan.
It is believed that people came and went across the sea in prehistoric times, and there are traces of trade and cultural exchange.
Why is there so little direct traffic so close?
The biggest reasons are political and economic factors.
Since Japan and Taiwan do not have official diplomatic relations, it is currently difficult to establish international shipping and air routes.
In addition, infrastructure on Yonaguni Island is limited,Maintaining regular service is a challenge of balancing cost and demand.It is.
Cultural similarities and differences
History of Exchanges and Influences
Yonaguni Island and Taiwan share some similarities in terms of folk beliefs and food culture.
Examples include the custom of worshipping sea gods and the transmission route of sweet potatoes.
On the other hand, there are also significant differences in language and social structure.
Recommended for tourists!
Model Tourist Routes to Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
Although the number of tourists visiting Taiwan from Yonaguni Island is still small, the proximity of the island in terms of distance makes the travel theme of "from Japan's westernmost island to the gateway to Asia" attractive.
Round-trip plan from Yonaguni Island to Taiwan
For example, stay one night on Yonaguni Island and enter Taiwan via Ishigaki Island,Popular 4-5 day trip to Taipei, Jiufen, etc.It is.
You can also combine sightseeing in Okinawa by stopping at Naha on the way.
2. nostalgic streets of Jiufen (New Taipei City)
3. historical spots such as Long-Shan Temple and the Chung-Cheng Memorial Hall (Taipei City)
Attractions and Points to Note for Travelers Combining Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
This route is highly unusual and offers a unique experience that allows visitors to enjoy both the ocean and the city.
However, it is important to design an itinerary with plenty of time to spare, as airline flight connections and entry/exit procedures require attention.
Exchange and Sister City Initiatives between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan
Sister city and friendship exchange initiatives between Yonaguni Island and Taiwan have begun in recent years.
Current Status and Future Prospects of Community Exchange
Currently, small-scale community exchanges are being promoted through tourism, education, and cultural events.
In the future, a more regular transportation network and joint events are expected to be organized.
Building Sister City Relationships and Impact on Tourism
The sister city affiliation has helped to revitalize the local community of Yonaguni Island by promoting tourism and increasing opportunities for human exchange.
The key to the future will be the development of a system to receive tourists from Taiwan.
summary
Yonaguni Island and Taiwan are very close, only 111 km apart, and have deep cultural and historical ties.
Access is somewhat complicated at this time, but it is possible to visit via Ishigaki Island or Naha.
By deepening the relationship and exchange between the two regions, the potential for a new tourist route is growing.
It is worthwhile to get acquainted with its attractions even now, with a view to future direct flights and ferry operations.
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