A must-see for travelers! Introducing 10 souvenirs from Yonaguni Island!

 

What should I buy as souvenirs from Yonaguni Island?
Introducing souvenirs from Yonaguni Island that you should never miss!

Many people take advantage of long vacations to travel to tropical countries such as Yonaguni Island.

Spending a relaxing time while experiencing a different climate and climate from where you normally live will be the most refreshing experience.

Souvenirs are an effective way to share such travel memories with others.

However, many people may not know what kind of souvenirs to buy when giving them away.

Therefore, we would like to introduce some recommended souvenirs to buy in Yonaguni Island, a popular tourist destination, for your reference before your trip!

 

Where is Yonaguni Island in the first place?

Yonaguni Island is located in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Prefecture and is generally known as the westernmost island of Japan.

Yonaguni Island also has an airport, which can be reached by connecting flights from major cities, or by ferry from Ishigaki Island.

In either case, although it takes some time, Yonaguni Island has many attractions that can only be experienced on Yonaguni Island, making it an island that should be visited at least once.

 

What are the highlights of Yonaguni Island?

The highlights of Yonaguni Island are the spectacular scenery created by the abundant nature and its unique culture, which is different from that north of Kyushu.

Yonaguni Island has a number of landscapes that delight our eyes, such as the brightly colored sea, white sandy beaches, and colorful green vegetation nurtured by the warm climate.

Another highlight of Yonaguni Island is that these landscapes look completely different depending on the passage of time.

In addition, Yonaguni Island has a unique culture that has been passed down through the ages.

There are many facilities where you can touch traditional crafts and folk tools, so when you visit, take advantage of these facilities to experience the culture of Yonaguni Island.

 

You must buy it! 10 Souvenirs of Yonaguni Island

Here is a list of 10 souvenirs from Yonaguni Island that we particularly recommend.

All of the products we introduce here reflect the characteristics of Yonaguni Island, and we are sure that many people will be pleased if you give them as souvenirs!

 

(Japanese) kuba cakes

The first souvenir we would like to introduce is Kuba Mochi, a well-known specialty of Yonaguni Island.

Kuba-mochi is steamed glutinous rice wrapped in kuba leaves, and was eaten at festivals and celebrations.

The local festival offerings were made of white glutinous rice cake, but in recent years, a variety of flavors have become available.

 

(2) Chomeiso Chinsuko

On Yonaguni Island, there is a special plant named Chomei-so, which was used in ceremonies to pray for health and longevity and a good harvest.

It has been eaten by the people of Yonaguni Island since ancient times and has a strong connection with the island.

And, tinsouko made from such long-life grass is also popular as a souvenir.

The unusual flavor of this chinsuko will be a welcome souvenir unique to Yonaguni Island.

 

(iii) Chomeiso tea

Chomeiso, which we have already mentioned, also has the use of being made into a tea and tasted.

Chomeiso is effective for a wide range of body problems, including high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, and fatigue.

This is why drinking it as a tea is so effective.

It would be a great gift for those who are concerned about their health.

 

4) Awamori "Hana-shu

Awamori is a popular souvenir from Yonaguni Island and other areas around Okinawa.

Among these Awamori, I can recommend one in particular called Hana-shu.

Hana-shu is deeply rooted in the culture of Yonaguni Island and is still enjoyed by many people today.

Hana-shu has an alcohol content of nearly 60 degrees Celsius, so strictly speaking, it is classified as a spirit rather than awamori under the Liquor Tax Law.

However, the ingredients used are the same as for ordinary awamori.

This is a good choice for those who want to buy a souvenir of Awamori that is unique to Yonaguni Island.

 

(5) Awamori "Yonaguni

 

If you are looking for Awamori as a souvenir, we especially recommend Yonaguni, a brand of Ryukyu Awamori.

Because it is Awamori, the alcohol content is a little higher, but the unique umami taste is well worth the effort.

 

6) Yonaguni Island T-shirt

 

Yonaguni Island original T-shirts are also very popular as travel souvenirs.

Many of the designs are designed for everyday use, so they can be used in everyday life.

In recent years, many T-shirt designs have been sold, so why not purchase one of these local T-shirts when you visit Yonaguni Island?

 

7) Yonaguni salt

 

Salt produced on Yonaguni Island is called Yonaguni salt and is a popular souvenir.

Because of its high quality, Yonaguni salt is used in many places, from restaurants to homes.

Many sizes of packages are available, so you can choose the one that best suits the needs of the person to whom you are sending it.

For example, we also sell large packages for commercial use, but it takes time to manufacture them, so if you want large packages for commercial use, please inquire in advance.

 

8) Swordfish jerky

 

The waters of Yonaguni Island are famous for their large marlin.

Swordfish jerky is a souvenir that takes advantage of these characteristics.

Swordfish jerky is the perfect product for those who love to drink.

Since it is hard to find outside of Yonaguni Island and lasts for a long time, it is recommended as a souvenir unique to Yonaguni Island.

 

(9) Thistle Noodles

 

Thistle noodles made from the Iriomote thistle plant grown on Yonaguni Island are also a popular souvenir.

Not only is it rich in nutrients, but it also has a great texture and can be found in restaurants on the island.

If you actually try it and find it delicious, please buy it as a souvenir.

 

(10) Yonaguni weaving

 

On Yonaguni Island, there is a textile called Yonaguni weaving, which is made only on the island.

Yonaguni textile is characterized by its simple beauty, using dyes from plants native to the island. Today, Yonaguni textiles can be purchased at souvenir shops as products such as tenugui hand towels, neckties, and bags.

 

Where can I buy souvenirs from Yonaguni Island? We introduce stores by location!

Here is a list of stores, by location, where you can purchase the numerous souvenirs we have already mentioned.

Please check these souvenirs against the places you will visit for sightseeing and try to buy these souvenirs efficiently during your trip to Yonaguni Island.

 

airport

The first stores we will introduce are those near Yonaguni Airport, the gateway to Yonaguni Island.

There are many stores around Yonaguni Airport where you can buy souvenirs, and many people buy souvenirs at the airport after arriving at Yonaguni Island or just before leaving Yonaguni Island.

 

Yonaguni Town Fisheries Cooperative Airport Shop

At the airport store of the Yonaguni Town Fisheries Cooperative, you can purchase a variety of souvenirs, including fresh marine products.

This store carries many processed products that last a long time, such as the swordfish jerky, dried fish, and fish in olive oil that we mentioned.

 

Nishidomari Mochiya Airport Shop

Nishidomari Mochiya's airport store is a souvenir shop where you can purchase Kuba Mochi, a unique type of rice cake from Yonaguni Island.

You can also purchase Yonaguni Island's Awamori and other alcoholic beverages, such as Yonaguni, as well as condiments such as kneaded togarashi.

 

Hidamari Kobo

For those who wish to purchase hand-woven goods and accessories near Yonaguni Airport, Hidamari Kobo is recommended.

Here, you can purchase various Yonaguni woven goods, straps, pouches, wallets, etc.

The store is also recommended for those who want to learn more about Yonaguni weaving, as you can see the looms inside the store.

 

Sonai District

Here are some of the stores where you can purchase souvenirs in the Sonai area.

Sonai is the largest of the three villages on Yonaguni Island and the closest to the airport.

Many visitors use the Sonai area, the center of the island, as a base from which to explore the island, as there are many lodging facilities in the area.

All of these stores are very attractive, so please visit them during your sightseeing.

 

Sugimoto family

At Sugimoto Family, you can purchase products made from chomeiso, a specialty of the island, and seasonings made from a paste of togarashi (red pepper).

In particular, island peppers, a seasoning in paste form, are very popular.

 

Sakimoto Sake Brewery

Sakimoto Shuzo is the oldest sake brewery on Yonaguni Island, and is a must-visit place for those who are thinking of buying quality awamori or hana-shu as a souvenir.

With so many different types of alcohol on offer, you are sure to find something suitable for the person you are sending.

 

Tokubi Kobo.

Tokubi Kobo. You can purchase various products made of Yonaguni textile at Tokubi Kobo.

With a variety of products such as straps, netsuke, coasters, and pouches, you will find souvenirs that are not only beautiful to look at, but can also be used as daily necessities.

 

one mahina

One mahina sells mainly original T-shirts.

There are so many variations of T-shirts, all of which can only be purchased here.

Please purchase one as a souvenir of your trip to Yonaguni Island.

 

Yonaguni Town Traditional Crafts Museum

At the Yonaguni Town Traditional Crafts Museum, visitors can purchase products made from Yonaguni textiles.

With a reservation, you can even try your hand at weaving, so when purchasing traditional textiles as souvenirs, be sure to visit the Yonaguni Town Traditional Crafts Museum to experience the traditions of the region.

 

Hikawa District

The following are stores where you can purchase souvenirs in the Hikawa area.

The Higawa district is located on the south side of Yonaguni Island and is currently home to about 100 people.

This district has the oldest folklore museum on Yonaguni Island and is also the location of a famous TV drama, so many people visit this area for sightseeing.

 

Yonaguni Sea Salt Co.

In the Higawa area, there is Yonaguni Sea Salt Co.

This company manufactures salt and is unique in that they take the time to carefully cook the seawater to produce high quality salt.

The salt produced by Yonaguni Sea Salt Co., Ltd. is said to bring out the flavor of ingredients many times over, and is highly popular among many people.

 

Kubura District

The last area we will introduce is the Kubura district.

The Kubura district is located in the western part of Yonaguni Island and is known for having one of the best fishing ports on the island.

Most people who visit this place as a tourist often come for the lighthouse, which is the westernmost point of Japan, the sunset seen from there, and diving.

 

Oasa Shoten

Dacha Focus is the only store in the area and is frequented by locals as well as tourists to purchase daily necessities and foodstuffs.

A very wide variety of Awamori is also available, so we recommend that you purchase your souvenir sake here.

 

Other

Finally, here are some stores where you can purchase souvenirs in locations that do not fall within the three districts.

Yonaguni Island is an island with a long-established culture, so there are many attractive stores throughout the island.

When you visit Yonaguni Island, you can visit many places and buy your favorite souvenirs.

 

Dounan Sake Brewery

The Donan Sake Brewery is located on the south side of Sonai District on Yonaguni Island.

This store is home to a company that makes awamori called "Donan," which is well known on Yonaguni Island.

Awamori is available in a variety of strengths, allowing you to choose the product that best suits the person you are sending it to.

 

A must for those who don't want to carry more baggage while traveling!
Five souvenirs of Yonaguni Island that can be purchased online!

If you visit Yonaguni Island on vacation but buy souvenirs during your trip, you will inevitably have more baggage.

Some of you may want to enjoy your trip with as little extra baggage as possible.

Here are some souvenirs of Yonaguni Island that can be purchased online for those who do not want to add baggage to their luggage!

 

Hana-shu" / Sakimoto Shuzojo (unlimited partnership)

 

First, I would like to introduce Hana-shu from Sakimoto Sake Brewery, which is also one of the leading sake breweries on Yonaguni Island.

As already mentioned, hana-shu is an alcoholic beverage with an alcohol content of 60 degrees or higher, made from the same ingredients as awamori.

Although the alcohol content is high, you can taste the robust flavor in it, and it will surely be a gift for those who love to drink.

 

Chomeiso Drink"/Shiseido

The next product we will introduce is Chomeiso Drink marketed by Shiseido.

This drink, designed to have the familiar taste of Yonaguni Island, is rich in nutrients and easy to drink, and will be especially appreciated by health-conscious people.

 

Chomeiso rokucha" / SUGURI

Chomeiso rokucha, sold by SUGURI, is another popular souvenir available online.

This souvenir is recommended for those who like tea and beverages, as it is easy to drink tea containing healthy ingredients by simply pouring hot water into a tea bag.

Chomeiso has long been known as a food with a positive effect on health, so it is a welcome souvenir no matter who you send it to.

 

Yonaguniuma T-shirt"/one mahina

You can also buy T-shirts online at one mahina, which we have already mentioned.

One of the most popular T-shirts is the Yonaguniuma T-shirt, a design that incorporates island motifs with the "Yonaguniuma" as the main character.

Because it can be stylishly used on a daily basis, we also recommend giving it as a gift to someone who enjoys fashion.

 

Kneaded island peppercorns/Kuramori Shio

The product we recommend as a seasoning souvenir is Kurasakari Shio's kneaded island peppercorns.

This product is made from peppercorns, which are grown organically and without pesticides, and besides being utilized in stir-fried vegetables, it can also be eaten on sashimi.

Because it is a versatile seasoning, it is a great gift for those who love to cook.

 

summary

In this article, we have introduced souvenirs from Yonaguni Island, a popular tourist destination.

Yonaguni Island is an island with so many attractions, with its unique tropical climate, blue sea and white sand beaches, natural scenery represented by colorful greenery, and unique ecosystem that attracts many visitors every year.

To share the excitement experienced during sightseeing in Yonaguni Island, which is full of such attractions, with many people, we recommend giving souvenirs as gifts.

Some souvenirs can only be purchased locally, while others can be purchased online, so you can purchase souvenirs in a way that suits your travel style.

A thoughtful souvenir that takes into account the preferences of the recipient will fully convey the charm experienced on Yonaguni Island.

We hope you will find the stores and products we have introduced here useful when purchasing souvenirs.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read this report to the end.