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The Complete Guide to Diving on Yonaguni Island! A Detailed Look at Popular Spots, from Hammerhead Sharks and Underwater Ruins to Marlin

Diving on Ishigaki Island

The sea around Yonaguni Island
Why It Attracts Divers from Around the World

hammerhead shark

Yonaguni Island, Japan’s westernmost point, is home to hammerhead sharks in winter and the mysterioussubmarine ruinsIt's a mecca for diving, known for...!

In the crystal-clear waters nourished by the Kuroshio Current,Marlin and BarracudaLarge fish and migratory species also gather here.

In this column, we’ll cover everything from the key points and best times to guidelines for beginners and how to choose a shop—A Comprehensive ExplanationI'll do it.

This article is for...
◆For those who want to know guidelines for the number of dives and choosing dive sites
◆ Beginners who want to try diving for the first time on Yonaguni Island
◆For those looking for a dive shop where they can enjoy diving safely
◆For those interested in hammerhead sharks and underwater ruins

Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yonaguni Island

 

Basic Information on Diving on Yonaguni Island

Diving on Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island is located about 2,000 km southwest of Tokyo and about 110 km from Taiwan.The Island on the BorderIt is.

Most of the diving is done from a boat, riding the currents.DriftThat is the basic principle.

First, let's cover the basics of the island's ocean!

Things to Enjoy Along with Diving☆
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼

 

Yonaguni Island Diving Attractions

hammerhead shark

The charm of Yonaguni Island lies in the unique features of the open ocean, with its strong currents—The Dynamic OceanIt is.

Schools of hammerhead sharks and underwater ruinsOne of the appeals is that you can enjoy experiences you won’t find anywhere else!

Summer is also rich in macro life, so you can enjoy it in different ways depending on the season.

 

Best Season and Water Temperature Guidelines

diving

Best Season
If you're targeting hammerhead sharks or underwater ruins,
Around December through March

Since the water temperature drops in winter,Winter ClothingLet's make sure to get everything in order.

On the other hand, in the summer, the water temperature is high, andLeisurelyYou can enjoy macro diving!

The Best Time to Visit Yonaguni Island
▼Click here for more details▼

 

How to Get There from Ishigaki Island and Naha, and Tips for Your Stay

Airplane, Landing

Access
◆From Ishigaki Island: By planeApprox. 30 min.

◆From Naha: By planeA little over an hour

Since the number of flights is limited, it's best to book your flight and accommodations in advance.

The long weekend during Hammer Season isReservations fill up a year in advanceSince this can happen, we recommend planning ahead!

For travel from Ishigaki Island to Yonaguni Island
▼Click here for more details▼

How to Get to Yonaguni Island
▼Click here for more details▼

 

Yonaguni Island
Top 5 Popular Diving Spots

Diving, Ishigaki Island

On Yonaguni Island,From those targeting big fish to those who prefer fishing based on the terrainThere are many things to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights:5 Key PointsLet me introduce...

The actual dive sites areDepending on the sea conditions on the daySince this is still being decided, let's check with the store to see what they've decided!

Things to Enjoy Along with Diving☆
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼

 

Underwater Ruins (Ruins Locations)

submarine ruins

The archaeological site, discovered in 1986, features a vast landscape of massive rock formations.World-famous attractionsIt is.

Terraces and StairsShapes like this can be seen, and the debate over whether they are man-made or natural landforms continues to this day!

Although the water is relatively shallow, the current can be strong at times, so be sure to stay close to your guide.

Basic Information on Underwater Ruins
◆Directions: About a 20-minute boat ride from Kubura Port
◆Highlights: Archaeological Sites
◆ Recommended for: Beginners and those who love exploring terrain

About the Underwater Ruins off Yonaguni Island
▼Click here for more details▼

 

Nishizaki (Irizaki)

hammerhead shark

Nishizaki is located off the coast of the cape at the westernmost tip of the island,hammerhead sharkThis is an area where you're likely to encounter them!

It is also a collective term for several dive sites, such as “Hammerhead Lock” and “Minami no Ne.”

Since this will be a dive in blue water,Neutral BuoyancyThese skills are essential.

Basic Information on Nishizaki (Irizaki)
◆Directions: About a 3-minute boat ride from Kubura Port
◆Highlights: Hammerhead sharks, bigeye tuna, dogtooth tuna, giant trevally, barracuda, wahoo, sea turtles, marlin, whale sharks, manta rays, buffalo fish, dolphins, whales, and more
◆Recommended for: Those looking to catch big fish, and intermediate or advanced anglers

 

Palace of Light

The Palace of Light is located near Kubura Port,About 5 minutes by boatThis is a geographical feature located in the southwestern part of the island.

A curtain of light streams into the complex, intertwined cavities and side passages,A magical landscapeIt's spreading!

The maximum depth is about 20 meters, and since you’ll be navigating through caves and crevices in the rocks,Intermediate and aboveRecommended for those who...

Basic Information on the Palace of Light
◆Directions: About a 5-minute boat ride from Kubura Port
◆Highlights: Schools of barracuda, crowned angelfish, and more
◆Recommended for: Those who love landscapes, those who want to capture magical scenery, and intermediate or advanced photographers

 

Danne Drop

Danne Drop stretches out offshore from Danne BeachDynamic Drop-OffThis is the point of the

On the reef, schools of Murehata Tatedai and other fish swam,A Spectacular ViewYou can enjoy the

During hammerhead shark season,A huge flockYou might even run into one!

Basic Information on Danna Drop
◆Directions: About an 8-minute boat ride from Kubura Port
◆Highlights: Banded Surgeonfish, Clouded Butterflyfish, Bluefin Trevally, Napoleon Wrasse, Bigeye Trevally, Akebono Goby, Helfrich’s Wrasse, Blue-masked Wrasse, and more
◆Recommended for: Those who want to enjoy the underwater terrain, those who want to see schools of tropical fish, and those hoping to spot large schools of hammerhead sharks

 

Kuburabali

Kubura Bari is located in the Kubura district on the western side of the island.A large crack in the rockIt is.

It is known as a tourist attraction on land, and underwater as wellChanges in Topography and Water FlowIt's a popular spot for enjoying [...].

Conditions for DivingThis varies by store, so be sure to check in advance.

Basic Information on Kubura Bali
◆Directions: About a 10-minute boat ride from Kubura Port
◆Highlights: Hammerhead shark, red-spotted anthias, blue-masked wrasse, pygmy seahorse, and red-finned wrasse
◆Recommended for: Those looking to find schools of hammerhead sharks, and those who don’t want to miss out on a big catch

 

The Hammerhead Shark and
How to Meet Merlin

hammerhead shark

When it comes to the two greatest heroes of Yonaguni Island,Hammerhead Sharks and MarlinIt is.

BothDealing with NatureSo, there's no guarantee that we'll actually be able to meet.

EachTiming and TipsLearn more and increase your chances of meeting someone!

 

The Hammerhead Shark's
Seasons and Points

Hammerhead Shark Diving

Time of Appearance
From around November through Golden Week in May
→In particularDecember–Marchis a good bet

The main points arewestern edge (e.g. of a town, village)All around, the flock flows like a riverHammer RiverYou might even see one!

Since this will be an open-water dive, please follow the guide's instructions.

 

Marlin (Swordfish)
Tips for Connecting with the Seasons

Swordfish, Marlin

Time of Appearance
Around January through May
→In particularEarly springis a good bet

Marlin can be expected mainly in early spring at big-game fishing spots like Nishizaki.

Even if a hammerhead or a marlin appears,Don't chase after it...Following the guide's instructions is the norm in Yonaguni.

Luck is important, but,A shop that specializes in catching big fishChoosing the right one is a key to meeting people, too!

 

Even beginners can enjoy Yonaguni Island
Can I go diving?

Hatena

Although Yonaguni Island is often thought of as having strong currents, there are spots where even beginners can enjoy themselves.

However, many of the popular spots areFor Intermediate and Advanced LearnersThat's right. It's important to choose a course that matches your level!

If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼

 

The Ocean Around Yonaguni Island: Fun Even for Beginners

Two people diving among the underwater terrain of Yonaguni Island

Archaeological sites, etc.,Depending on the point...There are places where even beginners and those trying diving for the first time can have fun.

Even if you don't have a license, if you ask the shop,Introductory DivingYou may be able to participate.

First of all,Let us know your preferences...Let them suggest a plan that's right for you!

Diving Spots Recommended for Beginners
◆Underwater Ruins
◆The Area Around Dannu Beach

 

Guidelines for the Number of Flights and
The Concept of Stepping Up

diving

Many of the popular dive sites on Yonaguni Island have strong currents, andIntermediate and aboveThis level is generally considered a guideline.

The exact number varies by store, so,Check in AdvanceLet's do it.

Neutral buoyancy, rapid descent, and safety stopsWe recommend gaining experience and gradually working your way up!

 

To Prevent Accidents and Dive Safely

Accident, Ambulance

Yonaguni Island has strong ocean currents, making it ideal for diving in blue water...Safety StopThere are times when this is necessary.

That is exactly why it is more important than anything else to follow the rules when diving.Tips for Enjoying Yourself SafelyLet's check it out!

Guided tours for peace of mind☆
▼Click here for popular tours on Yonaguni Island▼

 

Basic Rules for Preventing Diving Accidents

Rule Block

Stay close to the guide, and while in the current,Follow the instructionsLet's do it.

Floats, etc.Safety ProductsIt’s also essential to bring [item] and maintain neutral buoyancy at all times.

Depending on your physical condition and skills,AnxietyIf you have any, please let your guide know—don't feel like you have to push yourself.

 

How to Identify a Reliable Store
Checkpoints

Key Points: Women, Smartphones

A reliable shop takes into account the participants' skill levels and the ocean conditions on the day of the eventCarefully checkThey'll do it for you.

Checkpoints
◆BriefingIs this detailed enough?
◆Is there a sufficient number of guides for the group size?
◆Are emergency response systems in place?

Customer Reviews and Years in BusinessUse this as a guide to help you choose a shop you're comfortable with!

 

Things to Enjoy Along with Diving
Featured Tours

atlas moth (Attacus atlas)

On Yonaguni Island, there are diving...In between tasks or on days offThere's also a wide variety of land tours to enjoy!

Here, we’ll introduce three highlights: sightseeing on the island, horseback riding, and dining.

A trip dedicated entirely to diving—with a slight twistAttractions of Yonaguni IslandWhy not give it a try?

Click here for the ranking of popular tours on Yonaguni Island

 

Island Sightseeing Tour

Sightseeing Tours

The island tour is led by a local guide,Even without a rental carThis is a tour that takes you to all the major tourist attractions!

Tindabana, the monument marking Japan's westernmost point, and a location used in a TV dramaClinicYou can efficiently visit popular spots like these.

The estimated time required is about 3 hours, and to get to your lodging,with a shuttle serviceWe also have that plan.

▼Click here for recommended island tours▼

About the Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour
Learn More

 

Yonaguni Horse Trekking Tours

atlas moth (Attacus atlas)

This is a tour where you can enjoy trekking on the native "Yonaguni" horse, andfor beginnersThere are also plans that include mini-lessons.

Since we start with brushing and leading the horse,Even if you've never ridden a horse before,You can rest assured!

Under the SeaThere are also trails where you can walk alongside horses, allowing you to experience Yonaguni’s nature in a way that’s a little different from diving.

[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

BBQ Dinner

Dinner featuring local ingredients is one of the highlights of a stay on Yonaguni Island.

Locally raised Aguu pork and seasonal vegetablesWe offer a variety of plans that let you enjoy the island’s unique culinary delights, such as dinner plans featuring [ingredient]!

After diving, enjoy a delicious mealSlowlyWhy don't you try getting some rest?

▼Click here for our recommended dinner plans▼

About the Yonaguni Island Dinner Experience Package
Learn More

 

About Diving on Yonaguni Island
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Can beginners participate in diving on Yonaguni Island?

Some areas, such as dive sites, are suitable for beginners and those on introductory dives. However, since many popular sites are generally recommended for intermediate divers or higher, it’s best to consult with a dive shop in advance and choose a plan that suits your skill level.

Q. When is the best time of year to see hammerhead sharks?

They appear from around November through Golden Week in May, with the highest likelihood of sightings occurring from December through March. Since this involves nature, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them.

Q. What is the recommended number of dives for diving on Yonaguni Island?

Since the current is strong at many of the popular spots, an intermediate or higher skill level is generally recommended. The specific number of waves varies by shop, so be sure to check before signing up.

 

summary

Hammerhead Shark Diving

Yonaguni Island is full of attractions, including hammerhead sharks, underwater ruins, and marlin, among others.Diving sanctuaryIt is.

If you're aiming for the big-catch season from winter through spring, choose spots that match your experience and skill level, andChoosing a Storeis important.

Please make sure you're fully prepared, andYonaguni BlueCome experience the thrill for yourself!

▼Click here for related articles▼

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