Name: Yoron Island (よろんじま)
Address: Yoron Town, Oshima District, Kagoshima Prefecture
Area: 20.49 km² / Circumference: 23.7 km / Elevation: 97.1 m
Population: 5,087
Yoron Island is located approximately 590 kilometers south of mainland Kagoshima. Technically part of Kagoshima Prefecture, it's the southernmost island in the region. Still, being only 21 kilometers from the northern tip of Okinawa, the local atmosphere feels like a mix of both worlds. The land here is flat, with its highest point being only 97 meters above sea level. No high peaks, just gentle views. And here's a bonus—there are no poisonous snakes here, so visitors can explore nature without any worries.
In 1984, Yoron formed a sister-city relationship with Mykonos in Greece and even declared itself the "Panaurou Kingdom". In local words, "Pana" means flower, and "Uru" means coral. This poetic idea helped Yorona gain fame as a unique resort destination, loved by travelers from all over the world.
The history of the island unfolds like chapters of a long story. It once belonged to the Yamato court, later came under the control of local rulers, then fell under the rule of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and finally came under the control of the Satsuma Domain. At one time, it was even under American administration before being returned to Japan. Each era left its mark, shaping the character of Yoron today.
★ Yununu Heaven
At the center of Yoron is Yununu Paradise, a lush botanical garden containing more than 300 species of subtropical plants. Flowers, vines, and greenery create a tropical escape that changes with the seasons. The name "Yununu" comes from the old dialect of the island, which was once used to describe the house. Its root word, "yuna," means sand, which refers to coastal areas where the plant thrives on sandy soil.
★ Yurigahama Beach
Spanning two kilometers of Ogneku beach, Yorona's beach is a favorite for strolling, swimming, and enjoying the sun. Not far from the coast, about 1.5 kilometers, is located Yurighama - "Phantom Beach." It is visible only during low tide, revealing a sandbar sprinkled with star-shaped sand grains, which is considered a symbol of happiness. This rare sight attracts countless visitors hoping to see it during its brief seasonal period.
Getting there:
🚢 From Kagoshima New Port: Ferries to Naha stop at Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, and Okinoerabu. The journey takes approximately 19 hours and 40 minutes with one departure daily.
🚢 From Naha Port: Ferry to Kagoshima via Motobu takes about 4 hours and 50 minutes daily.
✈️ From Kagoshima Airport: Flights operate once a day, taking approximately 1 hour 35 minutes.
✈️ From Amami Oshima Airport: Daily flights take about 45 minutes.
