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 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 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
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.The town, which is bustling during the tourist season, returns to quietness in the off-season. The town, which is bustling during the tourist season, returns to its quiet state during the off-season, and one can feel the "seasonal change in population" that is unique to remote islands.
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 long downward trend is showing signs of bottoming out, even if only temporarily! The long-standing downward trend is showing signs of bottoming out, even if only temporarily! This seems to be due in part to 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
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!
Deployment of Self-Defense Forces and Population Change in Yonaguni Island
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.
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.
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 transparencyThe snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Yonaguni Island is a precious experience! Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Yonaguni Island is sure to be a precious experience!
↓Click here for recommended snorkeling tours.
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.
Jungle Night Tour
Yonaguni Island has few artificial lights, and when you leave the village, you can observe the stars in the sky. You cannot see them in Honshu.Southern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux)and ... andmeteor showermay be seen!
↓Click here for recommended jungle night tours.
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
↓Click here for recommended canoeing/SUP tours.
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.
↓Click here for recommended sightseeing tours on the island.
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!
↓Click here for recommended horseback riding tours.
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 for Yonaguni Island recommended tour ranking
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