How to get to Yoronjima

Yoronjima is a picturesque island in Kagoshima Prefecture, located at the very south of Japan, near Okinawa. This small resort is famous for its snow-white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique culture that combines Japanese and Ryukyu traditions.

You can reach Yoronjima in various ways, although due to its island location, planes and ferries remain the primary means of transport. Travellers often combine flights with trips by car or sea transport across the neighbouring islands of the Amami archipelago.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the island is to take a flight to Yoron Airport (RNJ). The airport handles scheduled flights and ensures reliable connections between the resort and major transport hubs in the region.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can plan a route via neighbouring islands, such as Okinoerabu or Amami, which are relatively close by. Air connectivity in this part of the country is well-developed, allowing tourists to reach Yoronjima comfortably and with minimal travel time.

Since Yoronjima is a small island, railway services are completely absent here. There are no train stations on the resort's territory, and trains do not operate.

Travellers preferring this mode of transport will have to use the railway network on the main islands of Japan to reach departure airports or major ports. The nearest locations with a developed rail network are situated at a significant distance, on the "mainland".

Direct intercity bus services to the town of Yoronjima are unavailable due to its geographical location on an island. Reaching here exclusively by bus from other major islands is impossible.

Tourists are advised to use bus routes only as a means of transfer to airports or ferry terminals in their departure cities. For direct arrival at the resort, this mode of transport is not suitable.

Travelling with a vehicle to Yoronjima is possible by using car ferries from neighbouring islands. For example, the route from Okinoerabu will take about 2.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 65 km.

Longer routes from more distant points are also available: a trip from Amami will last about 4.4 hours (123 km), and from Tokunoshima — around 4.2 hours. This is a good option for those exploring the archipelago in a rental car.

When planning a trip to the sunny island of Yoronjima, it is worth preparing in advance for the local lifestyle and climate. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled several useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is subtropical, so bring light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics. Be sure to pack modest swimwear for the beach and a hat for sun protection.
2. Transport. Public transport on the island is not extensively developed. The best solution is to rent a car, scooter, or bicycle to explore the beaches freely.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Cards are not accepted everywhere on small islands, so always carry a sufficient amount of cash.
4. Health and Safety. The island is safe, but the sun is very strong — use high SPF sunscreen. Pharmacies are scarce, so it is better to bring a basic first aid kit with you.
5. Communication. The main language is Japanese. English is not widely understood, so download an offline translator on your smartphone.
6. Local Etiquette. Be polite and punctual. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments, a practice similar to many customs in the Gulf region.
7. What to Avoid. Avoid swimming in designated unsafe areas due to strong currents and do not step on coral to avoid injury.
8. Extra Tip. Try to visit Yurigahama Beach, a sandbar that only appears during low tide — it is the island's iconic attraction.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere of Yoronjima and avoid minor inconveniences. Have a pleasant journey!