Yonara Channel
What is Yonara Waterworks?
Yonara Channel is located between Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island, where the tidal current is very fast. Officially, it is called "Aragusuku Kaikyo", but it is widely known as "Yonara Channel" among divers. It is famous as a diving spot with one of the highest manta ray encounter rates in Japan and attracts attention with search keywords such as "Yonara Channel Manta Ray", "Ishigaki Island Diving Hole", "Yonara Channel Point".
Because of its beauty and mystery, it is also known as the "Manta Ray Spot" and is one of the most coveted spots for advanced divers.
Why is the Yonara Waterway so popular and fun?
1. overwhelming manta ray encounter rate
The greatest attraction of Yonara Channel is the high probability of encountering manta rays. Especially during the manta ray season from spring to fall, multiple manta rays can be seen swimming gracefully in front of your eyes. The area is rich in plankton and serves as a cleaning station for manta rays, which are attracted to this area because of its good tidal passage.
2. intermediate to advanced dive sites with fast currents
The currents in the Yonara Channel are very fast, and diving requires drift diving techniques. Therefore, it is not for beginners, but for advanced divers, it is a special experience with thrills and spectacular views. Enjoy this safe and enjoyable tour for advanced divers with an experienced instructor and a license required.
3. fantastic underwater sandy beach "Yonara Powder
Part of the Yonara Channel has a submarine topography called "Yonara Powder," where white sand stretches all around. On a clear day, sunlight shines through the ocean, reflecting off the white sand and creating a fantastic atmosphere. The sight of manta rays swimming peacefully in the sand is truly spectacular, and is a particularly popular photo spot among divers.
4. can be visited by diving tours departing from Ishigaki Island and Iriomote Island
Yonara Suido can be accessed by joining a diving tour departing from Ishigaki Island or Iriomote Island. It is popular as a special activity during your trip, searched by "Ishigaki Island Yonara Suido Diving Tour" and "Iriomote Island Manta Spot".
More about Yonara Waterway
| name | Yonara Channel (Shinshiro Kaikyo) |
| Location | Aragusuku Kaikyo, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa, JapanView on Map) |
| parking lot | None (not required due to access by boat) |
| toilet | None (using ship or port facilities) |
