A complete guide to Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai)! A thorough explanation of the hidden charms, including how to get there, what to see, and even legends!
What is Gunkan-iwa (Sanninu-dai) on Yonaguni Island like? How do you get there?
A.
Gunkan-iwa is a rock formation that looks exactly like a warship and can be seen from the Sanninu-dai observation deck, about a 25-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport. In 2024, the entire area willNational Scenic Spots and Natural MonumentsIt has been designated as [...]. There's also a parking lot, so you can easily stop by with a rental car!
Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) on Yonaguni Island?
What kind of place?

Yonaguni Island, located at the westernmost tip of Okinawa Prefecture, is known as a secluded island with unspoiled nature!
Among such spots on Yonaguni Island, there is one in particular that has an overwhelming presence and a spectacular view.Gunkan Iwa (Battleship Rock)Also known as.Sanninu Tais."It's ☆.
The dynamic landscape created by the forces of nature is so impressive that once you see it, you will never forget it!
In this article, I will thoroughly explain everything about Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai), from its attractions to how to access and enjoy it.
If you want to know how to get to Gunkan Iwa
◆To know the origin of Gunkan Iwa
Those who want to be healed by the beautiful view of Yonaguni Island.
◆To make a sightseeing plan of Yonaguni Island
Click here for Yonaguni Island recommended tour ranking
⬇︎Guided Island Tour of Yonaguni Island’s Popular Spots⬇︎
[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.⬇︎For more information about sightseeing tours on the island: ⬇︎
Sightseeing tours of popular spots on the island First time in Yonaguni Island is also safe★ Sightseeing tour in the island by local guide Sightseeing tour in Yonaguni Island is an easy way for those who are new to Yonaguni Island or do not have a rental car. The tour will take you to the most popular and interesting spots on the island with the commentary of a local guide who knows the island well. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Gunkan Iwa and Sanninu-dai
What is the origin of the name?

This place has two names: "Gunkan Iwa" and "Sanninu-dai.
The common name "Gunkan Iwa" means "warship rock" in Japanese, because the rock seen from offshore is called "Gunkan Iwa" in Japanese.Huge warshipThe name was derived from its resemblance to the
On the other hand, "Sanni" in "Sanninu-dai" means "Sanni," which used to be in this area in the past.Settlement NameIt is said to originate from the
By the way, the Sanninu Plateau area is a truly precious scenic spot that was designated as a National Scenic Spot and Natural Monument on February 21, 2024☆
⬇︎A cultural experience tour where you’ll learn about the culture and history of Yonaguni Island through the guide’s commentary⬇︎
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⬇︎Click here for more details on tourist attractions on Yonaguni Island⬇︎
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 […]
Thorough explanation of how to access Gunkan Iwa!

You may think, "Such a spectacular view looks so hard to get to...," but don't worry!
Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) is one of the main tourist attractions on Yonaguni Island, so access is relatively straightforward.
This section details specific routes from airports and ports, as well as recommended transportation options!
Access to Gunkan Iwa

Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) is located in the southeastern part of the island.
If you're traveling by car, it takes about 25 minutes from Yonaguni Airport and about 15 minutes from Kubura Port (ferry terminal) to get there!
There are signs along the main road that circles the island, so it's easy to find even if you're a first-timer.
Directions 1: About a 25-minute drive from Yonaguni Airport
Access 2: 21 minutes by car from Kubura Port
⬇︎Click here for more details on transportation on Yonaguni Island⬇︎
How to choose a means of transportation in Yonaguni Island! Complete guide from rental car to free bus service What is the traffic situation in Yonaguni Island, the westernmost island of Japan? Explanation of key points for getting around the island Yonaguni Island, located at the westernmost tip of Japan, is about 30 minutes by plane from Ishigaki Island and only 111 km from Taiwan. It is blessed with a unique culture and nature among the Yaeyama Islands, [...]...
A rental car is recommended for transportation!

Movement within Yonaguni Island offers a high degree of freedom of time and action.rent-a-caris by far the best choice!
Buses are also available, but their frequency is limited, so if you want to visit the places you want to go at the time you want, a vehicle that you can drive yourself is convenient☆.
You can efficiently visit not only Gunkan Iwa but also other tourist attractions.
⬇︎Rental car plan for sightseeing in Yonaguni Island⬇︎
[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.⬇︎For more information about Yonaguni Island Car Rental: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Car Rental Let’s enjoy a trip to Yonaguni Island with 120%! Exploring Yonaguni Island by Rental Car: Since there are few transportation options on Yonaguni Island, renting a car is the best way to get around smoothly! At “Yonaguni Munbu Rent-a-Car,” just a 1-minute walk from Yonaguni Airport, you can rent a car for as little as 3 hours—even for a day trip […] (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Parking Information and Notes

A large, free parking lot is available at the entrance to Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai).
There is ample room for parking, so there is little concern that the parking lot will be full and you will not be able to park!
It is a short walk from the parking lot to the observation deck, so even those with small children or those who are not confident in their physical strength can enjoy the view.
You can never miss it!
Gunkan Iwa attractions and things to do

If you are going to visit Gunkanbawi (Sanninu-dai), you want to fully enjoy 120% its attractions!
Here are some must-see sights and special ways to enjoy them.
Create unforgettable memories with an experience that goes one step beyond just admiring the scenery!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
[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 / 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
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.⬇︎For more information about sightseeing tours on the island: ⬇︎
Sightseeing tours of popular spots on the island First time in Yonaguni Island is also safe★ Sightseeing tour in the island by local guide Sightseeing tour in Yonaguni Island is an easy way for those who are new to Yonaguni Island or do not have a rental car. The tour will take you to the most popular and interesting spots on the island with the commentary of a local guide who knows the island well. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
The panoramic view from the observatory is a must-see!

The observatory, located just outside the parking lot, offers a magnificent view of Gunkan Iwa and the East China Sea!
The unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view is truly breathtaking.
The contrast between the cobalt blue sea, the blue of the sky, and the rugged rock surfaces,Best photo spotIt is.
The recommended time is early morning when the sun rises!

Because Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) is located on the east side of the island,Time of day when the sun risesis especially recommended!
The sun peeks out from the horizon and turns the sky and the sea orange, a truly mystical sight.
Why not wake up a little earlier and experience the divine sunrise that can only be seen here?
⬇︎Click here for more details on sunrise spots on Yonaguni Island⬇︎
The definitive guide to sunrise spots on Yonaguni Island! Thorough explanation of time, season, and what to bring!Q. Where’s the best place to watch the sunrise on Yonaguni Island? What’s the best way to enjoy it? A. For sunrises on Yonaguni Island, I highly recommend Agarizaki, located at the easternmost tip of the island! You can enjoy the morning sun rising over the unobstructed horizon alongside the lighthouse. Yonaguni […]
What you need to know before visiting Gunkan Iwa

To enjoy Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) in the best conditions, here is some useful information you should know in advance.
Check carefully what to wear, what to bring, the best season, etc., and be well prepared!
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your trip more comfortable.
When is the best season to visit Gunkan Iwa?

Yonaguni Island is warm throughout the year, but the weather is more stable for sightseeing at Gunkan Iwa.Spring (April-May)andAutumn (October-November)is especially recommended.
Summer is the season of strong sunshine and typhoons, while winter brings strong northerly winds and cloudy days.
Of course, every season has its own charms, but if you want to enjoy the spectacular scenery in a mild climate, spring or fall are the best seasons to make love.
⬇︎Click here for more details on the best time to visit Yonaguni Island⬇︎
When is the best season to travel to Yonaguni Island? A thorough explanation of recommended sightseeing spots and activities!Let's Visit Yonaguni Island During the Best Season! Yonaguni Island is a charming island located at the westernmost tip of Okinawa Prefecture! Surrounded by breathtaking nature, this island offers a variety of seasonal activities to enjoy! In this article, we'll cover the best time to visit Yonaguni Island, as well as our top recommendations […]
Required time for Gunkan Iwa sightseeing

The time required for sightseeing depends on the purpose.
If you just want to look at the view from the observation deck and take pictures,30 min.The following is an example of a "good" example of a "good" example of a "good" example!
If you want to take your time and enjoy the spectacular view, you should allow 1 to 1.5 hours.
What to wear and bring for Gunkan Iwa sightseeing

There is almost nothing to block the sun or wind around Gunkan Iwa.
Therefore, a little ingenuity in clothing and personal belongings is required!
Be prepared to be safe and comfortable, especially when walking on rocky terrain.
◎ Wear comfortable clothes (pants style is recommended)
◎ Comfortable walking sneakers (sandals and heels are dangerous!)
◎ Woven jacket (wind and sun protection)
◆ personal effects
◎ Hat, sunglasses (sun protection)
◎ Sunscreen
◎ Beverages
◎ Cameras
◎ Insect repellent spray
⬇︎Click here for more details on what to wear on Yonaguni Island throughout the seasons⬇︎
This is the perfect outfit for Yonaguni Island! Thorough explanation of recommended outfits and essentials for each season.Clothing Tips Based on Yonaguni Island’s Weather and Climate Characteristics: Yonaguni Island has a subtropical climate, so it is warm year-round, but humidity is high and rainfall is relatively heavy. In particular, May through September is the rainy season and typhoon season, and in winter, there are frequent north winds and rain, so travelers must be sure to bring waterproof gear […]
It should be visited together with Gunkan Iwa!
Recommended Spots in Eastern Yonaguni Island

There are many other attractive tourist spots in the vicinity of Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai)!
If you have come all the way to the eastern area, I highly recommend that you visit the area together.
Enjoy the charms of Yonaguni Island even more with a ladder of spectacular views!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
[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 / 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
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.⬇︎For more information about sightseeing tours on the island: ⬇︎
Sightseeing tours of popular spots on the island First time in Yonaguni Island is also safe★ Sightseeing tour in the island by local guide Sightseeing tour in Yonaguni Island is an easy way for those who are new to Yonaguni Island or do not have a rental car. The tour will take you to the most popular and interesting spots on the island with the commentary of a local guide who knows the island well. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Agarizaki

A few minutes drive from Gunkan Iwa isAgarizaki.It is.
A white lighthouse stands at the tip of the cape, and Yonaguni Island's native horses, called "Yonaguni horses," graze peacefully in the vast pastureland, creating an idyllic scene for making love.
The view of the sea from the cliff is also wonderful, and you can enjoy a different and serene view from Gunkan Iwa!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Yonaguni Airport
⬇︎Click here for more information about Higashizaki⬇︎
What kind of place is Agarizaki, Yonaguni Island? Thorough explanation of attractions, access, etc!Q. What’s Agarizaki on Yonaguni Island like? What can you see there? A. Agarizaki is a cape located at the eastern tip of Yonaguni Island, Japan’s westernmost point. The highlights include the white Agarizaki Lighthouse and the grasslands where Yonaguni horses—designated as a natural monument by the town—graze freely! The island is compact, with a circumference of about 28 km […]
Tachigami Rock

The Gunkan Iwa (Sanninu-dai) observatory can also be seen in the distance from the observatory.Tachigami RockIt is.
It has long been revered as the rock of the gods because of its mysterious appearance as it rises vertically out of the sea.
There is also a legend that tells of a young man who climbed a rock to collect seabird eggs but found himself unable to climb back down; after praying to the gods and falling asleep, he awoke to find himself safely back where he started…
Viewed from the nearby observatory, you will surely be overwhelmed by its size and divinity!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Yonaguni Airport
⬇︎Click here for more information about Tachigami Rock⬇︎
A complete guide to appreciate the spectacular view of Tategami Iwa, Yonaguni Island!What is Tategami Iwa? Tachigami Iwa, a huge rock about 30 m high jutting out from the southeast shore of Yonaguni Island, has been worshipped by the islanders as "God's Rock". Today, it can be viewed safely from the observatory, and its powerful appearance standing vertically out of the sea attracts many tourists! Such [...].
Activities to experience in Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island offers a wide variety of fascinating activities.
Make the best use of the best season, make plans to meet your own objectives, and make love to spend quality time together.
Some recommended activities include
snorkeling

Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters at Japan’s westernmost point, where you can encounter colorful tropical fish, is a popular activity on Yonaguni Island.◎
However, we are currently not accepting reservations for snorkeling tours on this site.
You can find information about when registration will resume on the page below. If you'd like to enjoy the ocean, we also recommend a fishing tour led by a local guide! ♬
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Snorkeling (Snorkel) Tour⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Snorkeling (Snorkel) Tour Explore the fantastic world with ease☆ Yonaguni Island Snorkeling Tour The sea of Yonaguni Island is so clear that you can see the coral from the surface of the sea. Why don't you join us for a snorkeling adventure in such a beautiful sea at the westernmost tip of Japan? The fantastic underwater world [...]. (2 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る ⬇︎Fishing Tour on Yonaguni Island with a Local Guide⬇︎
Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Same-day reservation OK☆Go with a local guide! Unexplored Yonaguni Island Fishing Experience Tour 《with pick-up and drop-off service》(No.11)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 14:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours12,900 yen
Island Sightseeing Tour

Why don't you tour the island while listening to the stories of people who know everything about the island and whose stories you won't find in any guidebooks?
We will take you to inspiring spots such as the westernmost monument in Japan and the location of "Dr. Koto Clinic" in about 3 hours!
With airport and hotel transfers included, and your luggage—such as suitcases—carried to the car for you, it’s a breeze to join the tour on your arrival or departure day⭐︎
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
[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 / 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
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.⬇︎For more information about sightseeing tours on the island: ⬇︎
Sightseeing tours of popular spots on the island First time in Yonaguni Island is also safe★ Sightseeing tour in the island by local guide Sightseeing tour in Yonaguni Island is an easy way for those who are new to Yonaguni Island or do not have a rental car. The tour will take you to the most popular and interesting spots on the island with the commentary of a local guide who knows the island well. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Night Tour

Explore the jungle at night and look for rare creatures such as the endangered coconut crab!
In places where city lights don't reach, you can see a sky so full of stars it seems as if they might fall, and if conditions are right, you might even catch a glimpse of the Southern Cross ⭐︎
Tours for guests only include hotel pick-up and drop-off!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Stargazing & Night Safari Tour⬇︎
[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⬇︎For more information about Yonaguni Island Night Tour: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Stargazing & Night Safari Tour Last minute reservations are accepted on the day before and the day of the tour! Why don't you enjoy a fantastic star gazing tour and looking for subtropical creatures while feeling the night breeze at the westernmost point of Japan? In this issue, we will introduce the charm of Yonaguni Island's night tours (star gazing tours) and recommend [...]. (2 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Yonaguni Island Gunkan Iwa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
⬇︎Click here for exclusive coupons to enjoy a great deal on your trip to Yonaguni Island⬇︎
Enjoy Yonaguni Island at a Great Price! Check Out These Exclusive Coupons You Can Use Right Now! [Exclusive] Currently available only in our limited-time column! Use a coupon to book a tour at a great price! Apply the coupon when booking your tour to receive a 500-yen discount per person. (14 entries total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
summary

This time, a spectacular power spot on Yonaguni Island.Sanninu-dai (Battleship Rock)We introduced in detail the charm and enjoyment of the
The rugged yet beautiful natural formations, the legends surrounding Tachigami Rock, and the breathtaking panoramic views leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Be well prepared, be safe, and enjoy the special experience that only this place can offer!
It will surely be an unforgettable part of your journey,Best MemoriesIt should be one of the
↓Click here to read the article.
The Complete Guide to Model Itineraries for Yonaguni Island | How to Explore Without a Car or on a Day TripThis Is the Definitive Model Itinerary for Yonaguni Island! In this column, we’ll introduce a model itinerary for sightseeing on Yonaguni Island. We’ve put together itineraries you can enjoy even without a car, as well as day-trip plans, so be sure to check them out before your trip. For those taking island sightseeing tours […]
A complete guide to sunset on Yonaguni Island! 3 spectacular spots where you can see the last sunset in Japan & explanation of time and what to bring!Q. Where’s the best place to watch the sunset on Yonaguni Island? When should I go to see it? A. My top recommendation is the hill where you can see Japan’s last sunset of the day! Sunset times vary greatly depending on the season, so be sure to check them before you leave. Sunset on Yonaguni Island: Where to watch […]













