While staying at an Airbnb in Okinawa, we came across a book called 60 Beautiful Islands and the Best Places in Okinawa, and it instantly became our go-to trip planner. Inside were hidden gems, dreamy Okinawan beaches, and local spots we might have missed without it. 

One island that immediately caught our attention was Yoron Island, Japan, a tiny paradise on the edge of the Okinawa archipelago. We added it to our itinerary on the spot, and in this post we’re sharing everything you need to know about visiting Yoron Island.

Ferry to Yoron from Okinawa & the Amami Islands

If you’re looking to explore Japan beyond the mainland, a Japan ferry cruise is one of the most unique ways to do it, and getting to Yoron Island (Yoronjima) is no exception. Ferries connect the island with Okinawa, Kagoshima, and the Amami Islands, making it accessible even from as far north as Kyushu.

We took the Marix Line Queen Coral Cross from Motobu Port, Okinawa to Yoron, and the ride took just about 2 hours and 40 minutes.

If you’re not on Okinawa, you can also catch the ferry from Kagoshima on Kyushu island, with stops along the Amami chain. On Okinawa’s main island, there are two main departure options: Motobu Port or Naha Port.

Watch on TikTok here.

How to Take the Ferry to Yoron Island (with a Car)

Watch on TikTok here.

Step 1: Create a profile on the Marix Line or A-Line website to book your ticket online.

Step 2: If you’re bringing a car, have your vehicle registration handy. You’ll need to enter its height and width when booking.

Step 3: Arrive at the port at least one hour before departure. Complete the paperwork at check-in, staff are super kind and helpful if you get stuck.

Step 4: Board the ferry and enjoy the ride. Don’t lose your ticket, it’s collected when you disembark at Yoron Port.

Important tip: Car spaces are limited, so always book early, especially during summer and holidays. You can book your ticket online here.

Pro tip: If you miss the sailing north or south, you’ll need to wait until the next day’s departure. These ferries don’t run like buses, so plan carefully.

And while it’s technically possible to connect from smaller islands like Minna or Zamami in the Keramas, that’s a more complicated island-hopping route we’ll save for another post.

How to Get to Yoron Airport via Amami Islands & Kagoshima City

Another way to reach Yoron Island Japan is by air. Japan Airlines (JAL) operates direct flights from both Amami Oshima and Kagoshima City to Yoron Airport (RNJ), making it one of the quickest ways to arrive if you’re already exploring the Amami Islands or southern Kyushu.

Flights usually land between 12:00 and 12:45 PM, and if you’re near the beach or pool at Pricia Resort Yoron, you’ll get a fun “Maho Beach” style view of planes flying low over the coast as they come in to land.

Important Tip: There are no direct flights from Naha Airport in Okinawa, so you’ll need to connect via Kagoshima or Amami. And since JAL only operates two flights per day, missing one means you’ll be staying overnight on Yoron, plan ahead!

When Should You Visit Yoron Island?

The best time to visit Yoron Island Japan is during the summer months. We visited at the tail end of rainy season in June and lucked out with perfect weather, blue skies, warm days, and glowing sunsets.

The ocean was still a little chilly but totally fine for swimming without a wetsuit. If you’re dreaming of beach days, snorkeling, and those postcard-worthy sandbar views, aim for late spring through early fall.

Winter in Yoron has its perks too, fewer crowds and a more peaceful vibe, but the ocean can be too cold for long swims, and some water-based activities are limited. If snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking are on your bucket list, summer is hands down the best season to plan your trip.

And for deals on accommodation, check out Pricia Resort Yoron (we wrote a full review).

The Best Yoron Island Hotels

Finding the right place to stay on Yoron Island Japan can take some research, but we narrowed it down to a few favorites that balance comfort, location, and value. From resorts with all the amenities to boutique hotels and modern villas, here are some of the best places to stay in Yoron.

Pricia Resort Yoron

We ended up booking Pricia Resort Yoron, and it turned out to be the perfect fit. The resort includes a beautiful breakfast, multiple on-site restaurants, and tons of amenities that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. Sunset views here are stunning, and the property is designed to give you a full resort-style experience without leaving the island. Our full review can be found here.

Watch on TikTok here.

Shima Hotel

Shima Hotel quickly caught our attention because of its unique story. The property was once a restaurant called Shima no Aji Hachiro, famous for serving Yoron’s local cuisine. After closing in 2016, it was revived as a boutique hotel by a young couple carrying on the dream. Today, it offers an intimate stay focused on “island time”, a slower, more authentic Yoron experience.

Awal Seaside Villa

For something more modern, Awal Seaside Villa is hard to beat. With ocean-facing rooms, westward views of the sunset, and even an outdoor tub overlooking the harbor, it’s designed for both comfort and style. Whether you’re unwinding in bed or soaking after a long day of exploring, this villa is perfect for travelers looking for luxury in Yoron.

Must Visit Spots on Yoron Island

Yoron Island is a true hidden gem in Japan, full of stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and quiet beaches that make every day feel like an adventure. At first, we thought we’d pack our itinerary with nonstop exploring, but once we arrived, we realized this island is best enjoyed at a slower pace. 

Between the sightseeing, the history, and the turquoise waters, sometimes the best plan is just to relax and take it all in. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer stay, these are the must-visit places on Yoron Island Japan that deserve a spot on your list.

Yurigahama Beach & Snorkel Tour – A Must-Do on Yoron Island

Watch on TikTok here.

We waited for the perfect sunny day to visit Yurigahama Beach, the famous white sandbar just off the coast of Yoron Island Japan, and booked a half-day snorkel tour with Kaizoku Pirates Yoron.

Pro Tip: The tour is cash-only, and the ATM on the island can be hit or miss (classic Japan moment). We actually missed our boat the first day, but the owner was kind enough to let us reschedule.

When we finally made it out, it was worth every second of the wait. We swam alongside multiple sea turtles, snorkeled coral reefs near Akasaki Lighthouse, and spotted schools of reef fish, including everyone’s favorite clownfish, Nemo! The coral garden was breathtaking and instantly brought back memories of our boat life in Mexico.

This was easily one of our favorite experiences on the island. Don’t miss it! And while you’re at Yurigahama Beach, don’t forget to search for the star-shaped sand grains, one of Yoron’s most unique natural treasures.

Key Tip for Visiting Yurigahama Beach (The Sand Bar)

If you want to see the sandbar in its most magical state, plan your trip around low tide. The best time is during a full moon, when the sandbar is fully exposed and perfect for those dreamy “walking on water” photos.

During our visit, it was still partially covered, but the view was stunning either way. Check the Naha Tide Table before you go to make sure you catch it at its best.

Akasaki Lighthouse, Secluded Tide Pools & White Sand Magic

Akasaki Lighthouse is one of those spots on Yoron Island Japan that feels like you’ve stumbled onto your own private paradise. Just a few minutes from Pricia Resort Yoron, this peaceful stretch of coastline combines soft white sand, turquoise water, and postcard-perfect views of the lighthouse.

What really makes this area a hidden gem are the tide pools. During low tide, the rocks reveal dozens of little pockets filled with tiny fish, crabs, and other marine life. Our girls spent ages exploring, turning it into one of those simple yet magical family moments that make travel so memorable.

With its calm vibe, clear waters, and stunning backdrop of Akasaki Lighthouse, this beach stop is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter escape from the more popular Yoron attractions.

Yunnuard Pottery & Nearby Yoron Attractions

We didn’t get the chance to visit Yunnuard Pottery during our trip, but it’s high on our list for next time. At a private dinner, we were gifted two handcrafted mugs from the studio, and now we’re officially obsessed. Each piece is made using local Yoron Island clay and glaze, giving it a unique texture and color that feels deeply tied to the island itself.

If you’re looking for a meaningful Yoron Island souvenir, this is the place to find it, or even better, make it yourself. Many visitors love the hands-on pottery workshops where you can shape and glaze your own creation, a perfect way to bring a piece of the island home.

And since Yunnuard Pottery is close to other Yoron attractions, you can easily combine your visit with a stop at nearby beaches or scenic viewpoints for a relaxed day of exploring.

Akasaki Limestone Cave & Yoron Folk Village

The Akasaki Limestone Cave and Yoron Folk Village are just a 5-minute walk apart, making them super easy to pair in one visit. The limestone cave is on the smaller side compared to others in Japan, but still worth seeing if you’re already nearby, it’s about 500 yen to enter (as of last year). The cool air, natural rock formations, and underground vibe make it a fun little stop.

The real highlight here, though, is the Yoron Folk Village. We didn’t get to experience it ourselves (and honestly regret it), but it’s one of the best places to dive into Yoron’s local culture and traditions. The village is set up like an open-air museum, with interactive activities that are unique to the island, such as:

• 🌿 Plant dyeing experience
  
  
• 🪀 Making traditional Yoron toys
  
  
• 🌙 Crafting hollowed-out pillows
  
  
• 🍃 Weaving Bashofu coasters (made from fibers of the thread banana plant)

There’s also a small gift shop on-site where you can pick up handmade goods and local specialties. One quirky must-try is the pickled papaya made by the village’s Amma (grandmother). We’ve heard it sells out quickly after it’s made fresh, so if you’re lucky enough to grab some, let us know, we’re super intrigued!

If you see just a couple of cultural attractions on the island, make it Yurigahama Beach (the sandbar) and the Yoron Folk Village. Together they give you the perfect mix of natural beauty and local heritage.

Southern Cross Center

The Southern Cross Center is one of the most interesting cultural museums on Yoron Island. It shares the story of the island’s history, nature, and traditions. The Southern Cross Center gets its name from the fact that this is the northernmost point in Japan where you can see the Southern Cross constellation.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits about local life, maritime history, and even traditional festivals, but the real highlight is heading up to the observation deck for a bird’s-eye view of Yoron Island and the turquoise ocean surrounding it.

Yoron Castle Ruins

Right next door are the Yoron Castle Ruins, which date back to the 15th century during the Ryukyu Kingdom era. The castle was originally meant to be built for the son of the king, but he was defeated before its completion. What remains today are coral- and limestone-built stone walls that curve in a shape said to resemble a dragon.

While the ruins are modest, walking through them gives you a strong sense of Yoron’s ties to the Ryukyu Dynasty and its place in Okinawa’s wider history. Together, the Southern Cross Center and Yoron Castle Ruins make a great combo stop for anyone interested in culture, history, and epic island views.

Arimura Shuzo Shochu Distillery

One of the most unique parts of Yoron Island’s culture is its long history of sugar cane farming and brown sugar production. As you drive around the island, you’ll notice fields of tall sugar cane swaying in the breeze, a crop that has been cultivated here since the 17th century.

Carrying that tradition forward is the Arimura Shuzo Shochu Distillery, which has been producing handcrafted shochu since 1947. This family-run distillery is famous for using local sugar cane and brown sugar to create a spirit that reflects the island’s heritage.

A special custom tied to drinking here is called “Yoron Kenpo.” It’s a unique island tradition practiced especially when welcoming guests. Everyone shares from the same cup (sometimes even a seashell!), giving a short speech before finishing their drink and passing it along.

It’s less about the alcohol itself and more about connection, community, and camaraderie, a tradition that makes Yoron feel even more welcoming.

If you’re interested in local food and drink culture, the Arimura Shuzo Shochu Distillery is a must-visit for learning how sugar cane shaped the island’s past and continues to flavor its present.

Shell Workshop Kazahana

While exploring Yoron Island, we stumbled across a small roadside sign for Shell Workshop Kazahana, a hidden gem where local artisans craft beautiful jewelry from shells found around the island. Intrigued, we stopped in for a peek and quickly realized this is one of those places where every piece tells a story of the sea.

The workshop operates on an appointment basis, you’ll see a sign out front with instructions to contact them through the LINE app so they can meet you there. Unfortunately, our app wasn’t working properly, so we missed the chance to browse in person.

Still, we encourage you to check it out if you’re visiting Yoron, especially if you love one-of-a-kind souvenirs that connect you to the island’s natural beauty.

If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry, they also have an online shop where you can browse and purchase their handcrafted shell jewelry. It’s a perfect way to bring a piece of Yoron’s coastline home with you.

Starry Night Tour on Yoron Island

One of the most magical things about Yoron Island is its night sky. Yoron is famous for being the northernmost island in Japan where you can see the Southern Cross, and it’s often called the best stargazing island in Japan.

On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the horizon, along with countless constellations that make the sky feel endless.

We didn’t stay up all night for the Milky Way (we’ve been lucky to see it often, from Baja Mexico to the middle of the Pacific Ocean during our sailing days), but we did try our hand at star photography for the first time here and for amateurs, we were pretty impressed with how the photos turned out!

If you’re visiting Yoron, we definitely recommend carving out a night just for stargazing. Whether you join a starry night tour on Yoron Island or simply head to the beach with a blanket, it’s an unforgettable experience that feels uniquely tied to the island’s quiet beauty.

Where to Eat on Yoron Island

Pricia Resort

Since we stayed at Pricia Resort Yoron, most of our meals ended up being on the property out of convenience. One highlight was their private dinner experience, where we had a secluded table facing the ocean at sunset.

The food was fresh, beautifully presented, and paired with the best views on the island—definitely a dinner worth splurging on. (You can read our full review of the experience here.)

Local Grocery Stores & Snacks

Unlike Okinawa’s main island, you won’t find Lawson, 7-Eleven, or Family Mart on Yoron. This island keeps things simple. While there are plenty of vending machines scattered around, your best bet for stocking up is at one of the local grocery stores on Yoron Island.

We loved the Shopping Plaza Top Hanakawa store, the ladies running it were incredibly kind and welcoming, and it’s the perfect spot to grab snacks, drinks, or picnic supplies for your beach days.

Dining options outside of the resorts may be limited, but that’s part of the island’s charm. Eating on Yoron is less about fast convenience and more about slowing down to enjoy what’s local, fresh, and friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yoron Island

How do you get to Yoron Island?

You can reach Yoron Island either by ferry or plane. The ferry to Yoron Island runs from Okinawa (Naha or Motobu) and from Amami Oshima and Kagoshima.

If you prefer to fly, Japan Airlines (JAL) operates daily flights from Amami Oshima and Kagoshima City into Yoron Airport (RNJ). Private transport options, like charter boats or small aircraft, are also possible but less common.

Where is Yoron Island?

Yoron is part of the Amami Islands and technically belongs to Kagoshima Prefecture, but it sits just 15 miles north of Cape Hedo in Okinawa. Because of its location, it often feels like a cultural and geographical bridge between Okinawa and mainland Japan.

How do you get to Yoron Island from Okinawa?

The easiest and most popular way is by ferry. You can take the Marix Line or A Line ferry from either Naha Port or Motobu Port on Okinawa’s main island. At this time, there are no direct flights from Okinawa to Yoron, so the ferry is your go-to option.

How do you get to Yoron Island from Tokyo?

There are a few different routes to choose from:

• Fly from Tokyo to Kagoshima, then connect by ferry or take a short JAL flight to Yoron.
  
  
• Take a train from Tokyo to Kagoshima, then board the ferry to Yoron.
  
  
• Fly from Tokyo to Naha, Okinawa, and catch the ferry north from Naha Port.

No matter which option you choose, planning ahead is important since ferries and flights to Yoron are limited and often require reservations.

Should You Visit Yoron Island With Your Friends and Family?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path in Japan, Yoron Island is the kind of destination that delivers both relaxation and cultural depth.

Unlike some places that struggle with overtourism, Yoron still feels authentic and welcoming. Days here are a mix of quiet beaches, friendly locals, and cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

For us, it was one of those trips that ended way too soon. We wished we had more time to explore every corner. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a trip with friends, or even a solo adventure, Yoron Island is a hidden gem worth adding to your Japan itinerary.

And if you’re planning to explore more of the surrounding islands, don’t miss our full The Best Things To Do in Okinawa With Your Family post, it’s packed with day trips, kid-friendly spots, and local favorites to help you make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.