Is the Sad History of Kubura Bali True? A Comprehensive Guide to the Legends of Kubura-wari and Hitomashida, Plus 5 Must-See Spots
What is Kubura Bari on Yonaguni Island?

The Kubura Bari on Yonaguni Island is home to a sad legend related to the poll tax.Nationally Designated Scenic SpotIt is.
In this column, we cover everything from locations and how to get there to the truth behind history and folklore, as well as rumors of ghostly activity and reviews.An Easy-to-Understand ExplanationI will do so!
Be sure to check this out before you visit—it’ll help you prepare for your trip.
◆For those interested in the tragic history of Kubura Bali
◆For those who want to visit these sites along with Mt. Kubera and Hitomashida
◆For those who want to know the location of Kubura Bari on Yonaguni Island and how to get there
Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yonaguni Island
Kubura Bali (Kubura-wari)
Basic Information and Directions

Kubura Bari is located on the western side of Yonaguni IslandA deep crevice in the rockIt is.
Here, you'll find information on the location, how to get there, the nearby Mt. Kubura, and even the origin of its name.Basic InformationThe following is a summary of the following information!
Recommended Tourist Attractions on Yonaguni Island
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10 Recommended Sightseeing Spots on Yonaguni Island | What’s There to See? A Comprehensive Guide to Model Itineraries and the Island’s FeaturesThe Complete Guide to Yonaguni Island’s Tourist Attractions! Easy-to-Understand Explanations of Spectacular Views, Charms, and Unique Features Located at the westernmost tip of Japan, Yonaguni Island is a remote island known for its unspoiled nature and unique culture. Situated just about 111 km from Taiwan, it features magnificent ocean views and sheer cliffs that create […]Enjoying Yonaguni Island to the Fullest☆
▼Click here for recommended island tours▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island / 3 hours / with dinner] Enjoy Yonaguni Island to the Fullest♪Luxury Tour with Spectacular Sightseeing and Italian Dinner on the Island《with guide and pick-up/drop-off》(No.14開始時間Sightseeing: 9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00Meals 18:00-20:00 / 20:00-22:00所要時間Round trip sightseeing: 3 hrs.Dinner approx. 2 hours15,900 yen →directional marker or indicator14,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Location and Directions to Kubura Bali

Kubura Bari is,The western side of the islandIt is located on a hill near the coast, north of the Kubura settlement.
From Yonaguni AirportAbout a 10-minute drive. It's about a 20-minute walk from Kubura Fishing Port, but since there are some hills along the way,Rental cars and electric bicyclesIt's really convenient.
◆Directions: About a 10-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport; about a 20-minute walk from Kubura Fishing Port
◆ Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: No restrooms, etc.
Yonaguni Island
▼Click here for recommended car rental plans▼
[Yonaguni Island · Car Rental] Just a 1-minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Kei Car Rental Plan ☆ All Vehicles Equipped with Dashcams (No. r-1)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable7,000 yen →directional marker or indicator5,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
[Yonaguni Island · Car Rental] Just a 1-minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan ☆ All vehicles equipped with dashcams 《Seats up to 5 passengers》 (No. r-2)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable8,500 yen →directional marker or indicator6,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
[Yonaguni Island · Car Rental] Just a 1-minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan ☆ Includes a Dash Cam 《Seats up to 7》 (No. r-3)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable10,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.Click here to reserve a rental car on Yonaguni Island
What is Mt. Kubura? Its location relative to Kubura Bari

Mt. Kubura is,The western side of the islandIt is a mountain rising to an elevation of 195 meters, located in the Kubura area—the same area as Kubura Bari.
It has been designated as a natural environment conservation area, and I was told that the trail markers only go part of the way; there is no observation deck at the summit, andSurrounded by cliffsI hear that's how it is.
Since this isn't a place you can just casually hike up, if you're planning a hike, be sure to check the latest information on-site and, first of all, combine it with a visit to Kubura Bari.We recommend taking in the viewIt is!
Enjoying Yonaguni Island to the Fullest☆
▼Click here for recommended island tours▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island / 3 hours / with dinner] Enjoy Yonaguni Island to the Fullest♪Luxury Tour with Spectacular Sightseeing and Italian Dinner on the Island《with guide and pick-up/drop-off》(No.14開始時間Sightseeing: 9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00Meals 18:00-20:00 / 20:00-22:00所要時間Round trip sightseeing: 3 hrs.Dinner approx. 2 hours15,900 yen →directional marker or indicator14,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni / 1 Day] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Kuba Folk Tool Making & Sightseeing Spots Tour《Accompanied by guide, pick-up/drop-off, free photo》(No.16開始時間9:00~17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours (including pick-up and drop-off time)12,900 yen
A Glimpse of the Atmosphere at Kubura Bali Through Photos

◆Depth: About 7 meters
◆Total length: About 15–20 m
When you actually stand there,It's hard to see the bottomYou'll be amazed by just how deep it is.
If you want to take a photo,The entire gorge and the coastal sceneryWe recommend taking a photo with it!
However, the area right next to the edge is extremely dangerous, so please watch your step carefully when taking photos and avoid getting too close.
Guided tours for peace of mind☆
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 2 hours] Same-day reservations accepted☆ Enjoy the night to the fullest on Japan’s westernmost island, “Yonaguni”! Stargazing & Jungle Night Tour (No. 4)開始時間20:00-21:45所要時間Approx. 2 hours6,900 yen →directional marker or indicator5,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/1 hour] Monopolize the starry sky at the westernmost point of Japan! A starry sky photographer will produce the best picture☆《with pickup and drop off》(No.18).開始時間Within 18:00 - 24:00 on request所要時間Approx. 1 hour9,500 yen
"Kubura Bali," "Kubura Warai"
The Name "Kubalvari"

◆Meaning: "Bari" is a dialect word for "Crack"
◆Kanji spelling: Kuburawari
"Kubura Bari," "Kubura Wari," and "Kubura Bari" are allThe same placeIt refers to...
In addition, the official name of this site as a National Scenic Spot is “Kubura Bari and Kubura Furi-shi".
"Furishi" means "old stone" and describes a landscape featuring a coastline of eroded fault cliffs.
Is that sad story true?
Legends About the Head Tax and the Kubura Tax

When it comes to Kubura Bali,The Era of the Head TaxThere is a well-known sad legend about it.
In this section, we will examine everything from the background of the poll tax to the content of the legend and whether it is based on historical fact.
Let's Learn History!
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Experience the culture of Yonaguni Island! Cultural Experience Tour with a guide explaining about Yonaguni Island and making Kuba folk tools ★《Accompanied by guide, pick-up and drop-off》(No.15)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours4,900 yen
Yonaguni / 1 Day] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Kuba Folk Tool Making & Sightseeing Spots Tour《Accompanied by guide, pick-up/drop-off, free photo》(No.16開始時間9:00~17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours (including pick-up and drop-off time)12,900 yen
What Is the Head Tax? The Historical Background of Yonaguni Island

*Generally intended for people aged 15 to 50
It continued from around 1637 until Meiji 36 (1903), and in the island's daily life,A heavy burdenIt is said that this is how it turned out.
It is said that the burden of this tax was the backdrop against which the legend of Kubura Bari originated.
A legend about a pregnant woman who jumped over something

On Kubura Bari, the islanders, who had suffered under the poll tax,To prevent the population from growingThere is a legend that says it caused a pregnant woman to give birth prematurely.
If she can’t make it over, she’ll fall and lose her life along with her unborn child; even if she does make it over, she’ll have a miscarriage—that’s the kind ofA Sad StoryThat is what is being reported.
When you're actually there, the heartbreak hits you even harder.
The Legend of Tungda

Legends about the poll tax are not limited to Kubura Bali, butThe central part of the islandA similar folk tale from the same period has been passed down in "Tungda," located in [...].
To escape the burden of the poll tax,Men aged 15 to 50It is reported that an emergency mobilization was ordered, and that some people who arrived late and were unable to enter the rice fields lost their lives.
If you visit Kubura Bali as well, you’ll be able to get a deeper sense of what the island was like back then.
Let's Learn History!
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Experience the culture of Yonaguni Island! Cultural Experience Tour with a guide explaining about Yonaguni Island and making Kuba folk tools ★《Accompanied by guide, pick-up and drop-off》(No.15)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours4,900 yen
Yonaguni / 1 Day] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Kuba Folk Tool Making & Sightseeing Spots Tour《Accompanied by guide, pick-up/drop-off, free photo》(No.16開始時間9:00~17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours (including pick-up and drop-off time)12,900 yen
Is there any historical evidence to support this?
Summarizing the Various Theories

While the poll tax itself is a historical fact, there is no clear evidence regarding the story of pregnant women being forced to run.There is no evidence.It is considered to be a
Some have pointed out that, given the structure of the poll tax system, such a reduction in the population is impractical, and therefore, strictly speaking,According to legendThe reality is that this story has been passed down through the generations.
I can't say for sure whether it's true or not, but the islanders...Suffered under heavy taxesHistory is fact.
Rumors and Reviews About the Haunted Kubura Bali

The Kubura Bari, which is associated with a sad legend, is,Haunted PlacesIt is sometimes described as such.
Here, we'll look at why the rumor spread, and,Testimonials from VisitorsLet me introduce it!
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 2 hours] Same-day reservations accepted☆ Enjoy the night to the fullest on Japan’s westernmost island, “Yonaguni”! Stargazing & Jungle Night Tour (No. 4)開始時間20:00-21:45所要時間Approx. 2 hours6,900 yen →directional marker or indicator5,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/Dinner】Staff recommendation☆Okinawan Agu pork shabushabu-shabu course with special broth《Finish with local thistle noodles》With star gazing♪ (No.8)開始時間18:00 / 18:30 / 19:00 / 19:30 / 20:00 / 20:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,900 yen
Why It's Considered a Haunted Spot

The rumors about ghosts began to spread because of a sad legend and,It's hard to see the bottomIt must be because the atmosphere of the deep crevice added to it.
There were few people around,...Since it gets very quiet after evening, many people seem to find it a bit scary.
However, there has been no confirmed evidence of paranormal activity, andA Place That Preserves HistorySo, please refrain from visiting just for the thrill of a ghost hunt.
Guided tours for peace of mind☆
▼Click here for popular night tours on Yonaguni Island▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 2 hours] Same-day reservations accepted☆ Enjoy the night to the fullest on Japan’s westernmost island, “Yonaguni”! Stargazing & Jungle Night Tour (No. 4)開始時間20:00-21:45所要時間Approx. 2 hours6,900 yen →directional marker or indicator5,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/1 hour] Monopolize the starry sky at the westernmost point of Japan! A starry sky photographer will produce the best picture☆《with pickup and drop off》(No.18).開始時間Within 18:00 - 24:00 on request所要時間Approx. 1 hour9,500 yen
Reviews and Feedback from Visitors

◆I found it difficult for pregnant women to fly
◆ We recommend visiting this area as part of a tour that includes Tungda
"In Yonaguni,The place I most wanted to visitSome people spoke of “the place,” while others clasped their hands in prayer as they reflected on its tragic history.
Rather than a tourist destination,A place to learn about history and reflect on it in quiet contemplationIt seems that many people remember him for that.
Things to Enjoy Along with Kubura Bali
Featured Tours

For those who want to learn about the island's history and background,Guided Toursis recommended!
Things to enjoy along with Kubura Bali,Unique to Yonaguni IslandHere's an introduction to the tour.
Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yonaguni Island
Island Sightseeing Tour

If it's your first time on Yonaguni Island, go with an island guide andTour the Main AttractionsSightseeing tours are convenient!
In addition to the Kubura Bali and the monument marking Japan’s westernmost point, the TV drama “Dr.Koto ClinicThere is also a tour that takes you to the filming locations of "".
with a shuttle serviceThere are also plans like this, so be sure to check the details when making your reservation.
▼Click here for recommended island tours▼
[Yonaguni Island / Approx. 3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆ A sightseeing tour with an island guide to visit the filming locations of “Dr. Koto’s Clinic” 《Includes transportation & free photos》 (No. 6)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator8,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island / 3 hours / with dinner] Enjoy Yonaguni Island to the Fullest♪Luxury Tour with Spectacular Sightseeing and Italian Dinner on the Island《with guide and pick-up/drop-off》(No.14開始時間Sightseeing: 9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00Meals 18:00-20:00 / 20:00-22:00所要時間Round trip sightseeing: 3 hrs.Dinner approx. 2 hours15,900 yen →directional marker or indicator14,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni / 1 Day] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Kuba Folk Tool Making & Sightseeing Spots Tour《Accompanied by guide, pick-up/drop-off, free photo》(No.16開始時間9:00~17:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours (including pick-up and drop-off time)12,900 yen About the Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour
Learn More
Yonaguni Horse Trekking Tours

On Yonaguni Island, there is a nationalnatural monumentThere is a small, gentle breed of horse native to the island, known as the “Yonaguni Horse,” which is designated as such.
There are also trekking tours where you can walk through the island’s natural scenery while interacting with Yonaguni horses, and in between exploring the island’s history,LeisurelyIt's perfect for anyone looking to spend some time here!
[Available Only from May through September]
Here are some tours recommended for beginners
[May–September Only] Into the Sea
Here are some tours recommended for advanced travelers
On a horseback riding tour on Yonaguni Island to ride Yonaguni horses
More details
Dinner Enjoyment Package

To wrap up the dayHow about a dinner plan where you can savor the island’s local ingredients?
Dinner plans featuring locally sourced Aguu pork and seasonal vegetables, among other options,Cuisine Unique to the IslandWe have a variety of plans that let you experience [...], so come check them out!
▼Click here for our recommended dinner plans▼
Yonaguni Island/Dinner] Limited time offer! Superb shabu-shabu with seasonal Yonaguni Island swordfish in special broth 《Set of local thistle noodles and rice porridge for the finish》(No.17)開始時間18:00 / 18:30 / 19:00 / 19:30 / 20:00 / 20:30所要時間Approximately 1.5 hours6,900 yen
Yonaguni Island / 3 hours / with dinner] Enjoy Yonaguni Island to the Fullest♪Luxury Tour with Spectacular Sightseeing and Italian Dinner on the Island《with guide and pick-up/drop-off》(No.14開始時間Sightseeing: 9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00Meals 18:00-20:00 / 20:00-22:00所要時間Round trip sightseeing: 3 hrs.Dinner approx. 2 hours15,900 yen →directional marker or indicator14,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Yonaguni Island/Dinner】Staff recommendation☆Okinawan Agu pork shabushabu-shabu course with special broth《Finish with local thistle noodles》With star gazing♪ (No.8)開始時間18:00 / 18:30 / 19:00 / 19:30 / 20:00 / 20:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,900 yen About the Yonaguni Island Dinner Experience Package
Learn More
About Kubura Bali
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While the poll tax itself is a historical fact, there is no clear evidence to support the story that pregnant women were forced to run, so it is considered a folk tale. Since it is a fact that the islanders suffered under heavy taxes, let’s visit the island with an awareness of that historical context.
It's about a 10-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport and about a 20-minute walk from Kubura Fishing Port. Since there are some hills along the way, a rental car or electric bicycle is recommended. There is a parking lot, but no restrooms.
Although there are rumors of ghostly activity due to the sad legends and the eerie atmosphere of the deep crevice, no actual paranormal activity has ever been confirmed. Since this is an important site that preserves history, please refrain from visiting just to test your courage.
summary

Kubura Bari is a place where a sad legend from the era of the poll tax still lingers,A Scenic Spot That Represents Yonaguni IslandIt is.
While stories about pregnant women are nothing more than folklore, the history of the islanders suffering under heavy taxes isFactI'd like to take it that way.
When you visit,Watch your stepJoin your hands in silent prayer, and as you wander through Tungda and Tua, take your time to truly experience the history of Yonaguni Island!
▼Click here for related articles▼
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Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to Yonaguni Island | A Comprehensive Guide to Budgets and Sightseeing Plans! Featuring Sample Itineraries and Affordable Travel Options from Tokyo and OsakaBudget and Estimated Costs for a Trip to Yonaguni Island (Sample Itinerary: 2 Nights, 3 Days) Travel costs for Yonaguni Island—Japan’s westernmost island—vary significantly depending on the balance between airfare and accommodation expenses. Generally, a 2-night, 3-day trip costs around 50,000 to 120,000 yen, depending on your departure point and the season […]
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