Is it true that the population of Yonaguni Island is increasing? Who are the notable migrants and why?
Table of Contents
- 1 Is the population of Yonaguni Island increasing?
- 2 Population Trends and Depopulation in Yonaguni Town
- 3 Migrants" behind population growth
- 4 Deployment of Self-Defense Forces on Yonaguni Island and Population Change in Yonaguni Island
- 5 Regional Issues Based on Population Composition and Age Data
- 6 Relationship between demographics and living infrastructure
- 7 The Future of Tourism and Local Connections
- 8 Tourism Resources of Yonaguni Island
- 9 Yonaguni Island Population Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 10 summary
Is the population of Yonaguni Island increasing?

Yonaguni Island is Japan's westernmost island, about 500 km from the main island of Okinawa. The island, which still retains its pristine nature and unique culture, has been attracting a great deal of attention in recent years."Where to Emigrate"The reason for this is the changing demographics of the population. The demographic change is the reason why people are choosing Yonaguni Island as a place to actually live, rather than just as a "tourist destination. In this column, we will discuss the latestpopulation statusand background, as well as the charms of the island!
◆If you want to know about the population of Yonaguni Island
◆Considering moving to Yonaguni Island
◆If you are interested in visiting Yonaguni Island
Click here for Yonaguni Island recommended tour ranking
Population Trends and Depopulation in Yonaguni Town

The population situation in Yonaguni Town is difficult to notice if you are just visiting as a tourist!
More than 2,000 in the 1980sThis island is also where theFewer than 1,500 in the 2000s.Sometimes, it is also possible to
The town is bustling during the tourist season, but becomes quiet during the off-season, and you can feel the “seasonal change in population” that is unique to the remote islands.
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
Summer Special SALE [Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Sightseeing tour around the location of "Dr. Koto Clinic" with an island guide 《Pickup & Drop-off included & Free Photo》(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
Yonaguni Town's Demographics Deciphering the Past and Present

According to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the population of Yonaguni Town isApproximately 1,655 people as of 2024The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The long-running downward trend is showing signs of bottoming out, even if only temporarily!
This seems to be influenced by the new trend of "tourism → interest → migration".
Is Yonaguni Town's population growth temporary or long-term?

In the short term, the deployment of SDF personnel and the retention of immigrants are factors, but if tourism and immigration are well coordinated in the future,Long-term population stability is also expected.It is expected that
⬇︎Rental car plan for sightseeing in Yonaguni Island⬇︎
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Light Car Rental Plan☆All cars are equipped with a drive recorder (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.
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan☆All cars are equipped with a drive recorder《Maximum 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.
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan☆With Drive Recorder《Maximum 7 Passengers》(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 your trip to Yonaguni Island 120%! Yonaguni Island Traveling by Rental Car Rental cars are recommended for smooth sightseeing in Yonaguni Island where transportation is scarce! We have rental car plans available for as little as 3 hours to a day trip. Yonaguni Island Rental [...]. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Migrants" behind population growth

Many people are inspired to "live on this island" because of their travels! Especially after 2020, as lifestyles continue to diversify, the desire to visit Yonaguni IslandIncrease in the number of prospective immigrantsThe company is doing so.
Why do migrants choose Yonaguni Island?

Island life is close to the sea, mountains, and people!Everyday life is a "journeyYonaguni Island is full of excitement, and is an attractive place to live as well as to sightsee.
Migration Support Programs and Municipal Initiatives

Yonaguni Town isHousing subsidies and childcare support programs for immigrantsThe whole town is welcoming new residents by establishing a new community! It is possible to meet people you met on your trip and see them again in your daily life on the island.
Age structure of migrants and its impact on local communities

Visited as a touristfamily classand ... andactive seniorIn some cases, the migrants are moving directly to the area! Migrants actively participate in events and bring new life to the community.
Trend of migration of households with children and singles

households raising childrendecide to move to the area, imagining a future for their children growing up with nature. On the other hand,a single personare engaged in tourism and agriculture, and their integration into the community is impressive!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
Summer Special SALE [Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Sightseeing tour around the location of "Dr. Koto Clinic" with an island guide 《Pickup & Drop-off included & Free Photo》(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
Deployment of Self-Defense Forces on Yonaguni Island and
Changes in Population Composition

The island is supported from a different perspective than tourism.self-defense forceIt is the presence of They are the protectors of the island during both the busy tourist season and the quiet season, and they also influence the demographic composition of the island.
Changes in the number of SDF personnel and their impact on residents

Deployed in 2016The SDF members and their families settled in the area, contributing to a temporary increase in population. On a small island, even an increase or decrease of a few dozen people can have a significant impact!
Significance of the SDF in an Aging Society

For an aging community, it is valuable for the younger generation to settle in! Responding to disasters and participating in events,SDF is part of the local communityIt also serves as a
Regional Issues Based on Population Composition and Age Data

It is hard to notice while traveling, but Yonaguni Island, like other regionsWave of Agingreceived. Real life in the region is also a point of concern for long-term visitors.
Population Age Structure and Aging Rate of Yonaguni Island

About 23.3% of the population is 65 years old or olderThe number of people living on the island accounts for The development of medical and nursing care services is urgent and a major issue for the sustainability of the island.
Outflow of young people and decline in regional vitality

While many young people leave the island to pursue higher education or find employment in urban areas,U-turnand ... andI-turnThere are a growing number of examples of There is a possibility of changing from a journey to a "place to return to".
Challenges for medical and welfare systems due to the aging of the population

Shortage of manpower in medical institutionsand ... andAging facilitiesThe development of welfare for the aging population is a major theme for the future, such as There is a need to create an island where tourism and welfare are compatible.
⬇︎Half-day (morning/afternoon) activity tours: ⬇︎
Summer Special SALE [Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Sightseeing tour around the location of "Dr. Koto Clinic" with an island guide 《Pickup & Drop-off included & Free Photo》(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 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⬇︎ for more information on half-day activity tours: ⬇︎
Half-day (morning/afternoon) activity tours Enjoy the day of arrival and the last day of your stay☆ 【Half Day】Yonaguni Island Recommended Tour Yonaguni Island is the westernmost island in Japan, rich in nature, with spectacular views and a unique culture. (5 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Relationship between demographics and living infrastructure

Even from a tourist's point of view.Travel like you live."As style grows in popularity, the state of infrastructure is an important piece of information!
Status of schools and educational facilities and child-rearing environment

The island haselementary and middle schoolsand provides a safe and comfortable environment for raising children! The style of learning that uses nature as a teaching tool is also popular.
Current status of elementary and junior high schools on the island and changes in the number of children

Number of children is rising slightly due to an increase in immigration.It is. There are also school events in which tourists can participate, serving as a place to interact with the local community!
Number of convenience stores and commercial facilities and convenience of living

There are no major convenience stores on the island, though,Community-based storesare active in the market! The differences in island prices and assortments are another attraction that you will discover on your trip.
Shopping conditions and challenges unique to remote islands

Logistical instabilityand ... andHigh pricesThere are issues that affect tourists, such as Sustainable consumption is required in the future.
The Future of Tourism and Local Connections

Yonaguni Island as a travel destination,An island I'd like to live on.The relationship between tourism and the local community is also changing.
Relationship between population and tourism Impact on local economy

Tourism is the catalyst for population growth,Migration supports the local economy.This is a virtuous cycle! This is becoming a reality on Yonaguni Island.
Number of visitors to Yonaguni Island

Approx. 43,000 per yearYonaguni Island is visited by more than 80% of the world's tourists. Although the number of tourists decreased significantly due to the Corona disaster, it returned to 80% of the pre-Corona level by 2023.
⬇︎Rental car plan for sightseeing in Yonaguni Island⬇︎
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Light Car Rental Plan☆All cars are equipped with a drive recorder (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.
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan☆All cars are equipped with a drive recorder《Maximum 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.
Summer Special SALE 【Yonaguni Island・Rental Car】1 minute walk from Yonaguni Airport! Standard Car Rental Plan☆With Drive Recorder《Maximum 7 Passengers》(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 your trip to Yonaguni Island 120%! Yonaguni Island Traveling by Rental Car Rental cars are recommended for smooth sightseeing in Yonaguni Island where transportation is scarce! We have rental car plans available for as little as 3 hours to a day trip. Yonaguni Island Rental [...]. (3 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Tourism Resources of Yonaguni Island

The crystal clear sea, jungle, and Yonaguni horses,Diverse tourism resourcesis the main attraction of Yonaguni Island. Here are some of the special activities you can experience on Yonaguni Island!
snorkeling

The waters surrounding Yonaguni Island are,Tropical fish unique to the subtropical zoneandBeautiful ocean with excellent transparencyis spreading.
Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Yonaguni Island is sure to be a precious experience!
⬇︎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 [...]. (0 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
diving

The sea of Yonaguni Island where large migratory fish appear one after another isOne of the best diving spots in Japan!
The rich nature of Yonaguni Island offers many exciting diving experiences.
⬇︎Learn more about Yonaguni Island diving tours: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Diving Tour Adventure to the unknown underwater world at the westernmost tip of Japan☆ Sacred land! Diving Tour in Yonaguni Island The sea of Yonaguni Island is one of the best diving spots in Japan, where large migratory fish appear one after another! The rich nature of Yonaguni Island will give you a lot of excitement when you dive in this island. (0 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Jungle Night Tour

Yonaguni Island has few artificial lights, and once you leave the village, you can observe the stars in the sky.
Cannot be seen in HonshuSouthern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux)and ... andmeteor showermay be seen!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Stargazing & Night Safari Tour⬇︎
OPEN SALE[Yonaguni Island/2 hours]Same-day reservations OK☆Enjoy the night in Yonaguni Island, the westernmost island in Japan! Star gazing & 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
Canoeing/SUP

At first glance, canoeing and SUP may seem difficult, but most people who experience them are beginners!
Water Rescue QualificationsThe attraction is that the guides are well supported by guides who have
⬇︎Learn more about Yonaguni Island sea kayaking (canoeing): ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Sea Kayak (Canoe) Tour Anyone can enjoy it, young and old, male and female! Let's try kayaking in Yonaguni Island☆ Kayaking (canoeing) in Yonaguni Island can be easily experienced by beginners regardless of age or gender. You can explore the beautiful ocean at your own pace and leisurely, so it is quite [...]... (0 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る ⬇︎For more information about Yonaguni Island SUP (Sap) Tours: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Sea Kayak (Canoe) Tour Anyone can enjoy it, young and old, male and female! Let's try kayaking in Yonaguni Island☆ Kayaking (canoeing) in Yonaguni Island can be easily experienced by beginners regardless of age or gender. You can explore the beautiful ocean at your own pace and leisurely, so it is quite [...]... (0 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Island Sightseeing

Island-based guides who know Yonaguni Island inside out.The island guide will take you on a guided tour of each spot! You will be able to hear many unique stories about the island that you can only hear from the island guide.
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Sightseeing Tour to Popular Spots⬇︎
Summer Special SALE [Yonaguni Island/3 hours] Recommended for first-time visitors to Yonaguni Island☆Sightseeing tour around the location of "Dr. Koto Clinic" with an island guide 《Pickup & Drop-off included & Free Photo》(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
atlas moth (Attacus atlas)

Powerful and kind-hearted Yonaguni HorseWhy don't you spend a relaxing time in the great nature on a Even beginners can enjoy it with simple lessons, and island guides will guide you!
⬇︎Yonaguni Island Horseback Riding Experience Plan is here: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island/2 hours] May-September only♪Into the sea with Yonaguni horses for advanced level trekkers☆Trekking along the beautiful water's edge (v-2)開始時間8:00-10:00所要時間:
Yonaguni Island/2 hours] May to September only! Beginners also welcome☆Leisurely trekking with Yonaguni horses with a guide and mini lesson (v-1)開始時間8:00-10:00所要時間:⬇︎For more information about the Yonaguni Island Horseback Riding Experience: ⬇︎
Yonaguni Island Horseback Riding Experience Horseback Riding Experience in Yonaguni Island☆ Horseback riding experience in Yonaguni Island is an activity that anyone can enjoy, from beginners to experienced riders. You can enjoy the magnificent view of the sea and cliffs while interacting with Yonaguni horses in the great nature. You can relax and [...]... (2 total) アクティビティの詳細を見る
Yonaguni Island Population
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
summary

Yonaguni Island is now not only a tourist destination.A place to live."We are entering an era in which we are also being chosen as a Signs of population growth are not only seen in migrants and the SDF, but also in each and every traveler.I want to come back. I want to live here."This is due to the accumulation of the desire to
An extension of the trip."Living on an island."! It is not something special, but an option that is an extension of daily life on Yonaguni Island.
↓Click here to read the article.
Are there supermarkets and convenience stores on Yonaguni Island? Shopping conditions and 4 recommended stores that you need to know before your trip.Contents1 Is there a supermarket or convenience store in Yonaguni Island2 How to get to Yonaguni Island3 How to buy food and daily necessities in Yonaguni Island3.1 Is there a national chain convenience store in Yonaguni Island3.2 Is there a drugstore in Yonaguni Island4 What can replace supermarket [...]
A complete guide to travel to Yonaguni Island! Thorough explanation of the best spots, means of transportation, and what to bring!Contents1 Getting to know Yonaguni Island! Yonaguni Island Travel Guide2 What's Yonaguni Island like2.1 Basic Information about Yonaguni Island2.2 Characteristics as Japan's westernmost island2.3 History and Culture of Yonaguni Island3 How to get to Yonaguni Island3.1 Access by plane [...]
When is the best season to travel to Yonaguni Island? A thorough explanation of recommended sightseeing spots and activities!Contents1 Let's visit Yonaguni Island in the best season2 What is the best season in Yonaguni Island2.1 Spring in Yonaguni Island (March to May)2.2 Summer in Yonaguni Island (June to August)2.3 Autumn in Yonaguni Island (September to November)2.4 Winter in Yonaguni Island (December to February)3 Yonaguni [...].












