Yoron Island (Yoron Town, Kagoshima Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Yoron Island (Yoron Town) is a small island located near the southernmost tip of Kagoshima Prefecture, between the Amami Islands and the main island of Okinawa. Its small size is characterized by a beautiful lagoon-like sea surrounded by coral reefs. Its greatest attraction is its natural scenery, including the clear blue sea, white sandy beaches, the sandy road known as "Yurigahama" (Yurigahama Beach) that appears when the tide goes out, and the impressive sand dunes (Sunayama Beach).

Historically influenced by Ryukyu culture, the area retains its own unique folk customs, folk songs, and festivals that blend the cultures of both Amami and Okinawa. After the occupation period and reversion after World War II, the area is now promoting tourism while cherishing its tourism resources and traditional culture.

Highlights

• Yurigahama (Yurigahama Beach): It is famous for the sand "islands" and roads that appear at low tide. The scenery changes depending on the time of low tide, so it is a good idea to check the tide table before visiting.
• Sunayama Beach: The white sand dunes and unique sand arches are photogenic, and the color of the sea is also outstanding.
• Beach & Snorkeling: The water is highly transparent and there are an abundance of coral and tropical fish. There are also many spots suitable for beginners, so trial diving and snorkeling tours are popular.
• Island hopping and cycling：The island is short, so it's easy to get around by rental bicycle or car. You can leisurely explore the scenic coastal areas and villages.
• Local food and homestay experience: You can experience fresh seafood, local cuisine, and homely hospitality at a guesthouse. You may also have the opportunity to experience island festivals and folk songs.
• Nature Observation: There is a time when you can see sea turtles laying eggs and coming ashore, and it is also a beautiful spot for observing the starry sky at night.
• Historical sites and museums: There are small museums and historical sites scattered around the island that introduce the island's history and culture (opening hours and exhibits may vary).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Railway: There is no railway on Yoron Island. The nearest major station is on the mainland, and if you are going to Kagoshima, Kagoshima Chuo Station (Kyushu Shinkansen) is a good place to start. On the Okinawa side, Naha Airport and the monorail (Yui Rail) are the main access points.
• Air: There are regular flights to Yoron Airport (Yoron Town). The routes and number of flights vary depending on the season and year, so please check the airline and airport flight information before traveling. Generally, you should plan your trip assuming connections from Kagoshima, Amami, or Naha.
• Ship (ferry/high-speed boat)Ferries and high-speed boats may operate from Kagoshima, the Amami Islands, Okinawa main island, etc. Routes, travel times, and frequency of operations vary depending on the season and operating company, so please check in advance.
• Traveling within the island: You can use rental cars, rental motorbikes, bicycles, taxis, local buses, etc. Public transportation between tourist spots is limited, so it is convenient to travel by rental car or motorbike.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip: If your return flight or boat schedule allows, you can explore the beaches and visit the main attractions. However, it can be hectic considering the travel time.
• 2 days and 1 night: A minimum stay that allows you to leisurely explore the main beaches (Sunayama Beach, Yurigahama Beach) and the island.
• 2-3 nights: The recommended number of days to stay to enjoy snorkeling, diving, strolling around the island's villages, watching the sunset and stargazing, and more.
• 3 nights or more: Enjoy island time and relax, leaving plenty of time for travel and visiting the surrounding islands.

Nearby spots

• Amami Islands (Amami Oshima, Okinoerabujima, and islands on the sea route to Okinawa main island) - Yoron Island is located halfway between Amami and Okinawa, making it easy to combine a trip to the surrounding outlying islands.
• Okinawa Main Island (Naha) — A popular option is to combine your trip with sightseeing on Okinawa Main Island by taking a flight or ferry to Naha.
• You can enjoy a tour plan that combines remote islands with different nature and cultures, such as Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, and Okinoerabujima.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Check the tide level: Spots that appear at low tide, such as Yurigahama, are only open for a limited time depending on the tide level. Please check the tide table before visiting.
• Consideration for coral and other living creatures: Coral is easily damaged by touching or stepping on it. When snorkeling on the reef, be careful with your fins and avoid touching the marine life. Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended.
• Seasons and Weather: During typhoon season (mainly summer to autumn), there is a possibility of flight cancellations and worsening weather. Please check typhoon information and transportation status frequently.
• Access and business hours: The number of shops, facilities, and transportation on the island is limited, so it's best to make reservations for restaurants, rental cars, and accommodations early. There are few ATMs and large stores, so it's convenient to have some cash on hand.
• Manners: This is an island where people have a strong sense of caring for the natural environment. It is important to always take your trash home with you, be considerate when barbecuing on the beach and when making noise, and follow local rules and be polite to the locals.
• Insect and UV protectionIn the summer, we recommend taking measures against mosquitoes and black flies, as well as UV rays (hat, sunscreen, long sleeves).

Note: Transportation options (routes and flights) and facility operating status may change depending on the season and year. Please check the latest information with the official website, transportation company, or accommodation in advance.