Don’t Miss Out! Top 5 Must-Try Food Spots in Yonaguni Island

Yonaguni Island, a remote island located far from Okinawa’s main island, offers a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere just like the rest of Okinawa. But did you know that this hidden gem is also home to some fantastic local food spots? In this guide, we’ve carefully selected five of the best gourmet places you must try when visiting Yonaguni Island!

1. This is the Place for Dinner in Yonaguni Island! Enjoy Delicious Drinks at Beer Garden Border

Located in the northern part of Yonaguni Island and fairly close to the airport, Beer Garden Border is more than just a place to enjoy drinks—it also serves lunch, making it a go-to food spot on the island. Despite the name “Beer Garden,” the venue has more of a cozy izakaya vibe. You can choose between table seating or traditional tatami-style seating, making it perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy their time.

If you're visiting Okinawa, you can't miss trying Orion Beer, and this spot offers it alongside a wide selection of other alcoholic drinks. While tourists do visit, Beer Garden Border is especially loved by the locals of Yonaguni Island, who often gather here for a fun and friendly night out.

The menu is diverse, so even if you're not into alcohol, you’ll find satisfying options like sushi, rice bowls, and a variety of side dishes. The most popular dishes are centered around marlin (kajiki), including fried marlin (karaage hate), marlin sashimi salad (sashimi hate), and Hitomichan, a dish made from the marlin's eye area cooked in salted broth. These specialty marlin dishes are a must-try!

2. Feeling Hungry at the Airport? Don’t Worry—Try Tabikaho!

If you’re looking to relax and grab a bite at Yonaguni Airport, we recommend stopping by Tabikaho, a cozy café and diner located inside the terminal. With the warm ambiance of a small eatery, Tabikaho offers more than just freshly roasted charcoal coffee and a variety of drinks—you can also enjoy a full range of food options. If you're in the mood for a drink, Orion Beer is also available. It’s a great spot for a quick drink before your flight!

The food menu features local Yonaguni Island and Okinawan specialties like Chomeiso Soba (longevity herb noodles) and Goya Champuru (bitter melon stir-fry). If you’re craving something hearty, you’ll also find dishes like Tonkatsu Teishoku (pork cutlet set meal) and classic Curry Rice. There’s even a kids' menu with child-friendly options like Okosama Lunch. For early travelers, the morning menu offers both a toast set and a rice ball set—perfect for starting your day right.

3. Wakana Soba, A Beloved Yaeyama Soba Spot Popular with Locals

If you're looking to enjoy authentic Yaeyama soba on Yonaguni Island, “Wakana Soba” is the perfect place. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this soba shop offers a focused and simple menu featuring Wakana Soba in large, regular, and small sizes, along with rice, draft beer, and iced coffee. The simplicity of the menu reflects the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor.

Using classic thin Yaeyama noodles, Wakana Soba blends the perfect amount of bonito broth with a gentle saltiness, creating a soothing taste that's easy on the body. It’s the kind of meal you’ll crave when you’re tired, feeling under the weather, or recovering after a night of drinking—comfort food at its finest.

Despite the thin noodles, they have a satisfyingly chewy texture that gives each bite a hearty feel. For those who want an extra kick, try adding some koregusu (Okinawan chili-infused awamori) available at the table. The spicy flavor enhances your appetite and adds a delicious edge to the mild broth.

4. Isun- an Island Cuisine Kaisho, Serving Fresh Seafood from the Nearby Waters of Yonaguni Island

Located on the westernmost tip of Japan, Yonaguni Island is home to the famous "Monument of Japan’s Westernmost Point." Not far from this landmark, you'll find Island Cuisine Kaisho (Isun)—the westernmost izakaya in Japan. This popular local restaurant offers an impressive lineup of gourmet dishes made with freshly caught marlin from the surrounding seas of Yonaguni.

Featured in Japanese media, Isun is considered one of the top dining spots on the island. A must-try dish here is their sashimi made from freshly caught marlin. Its beautiful pink hue and melt-in-your-mouth umami flavor make it a standout experience.

In addition to the marlin sashimi, you can enjoy uniquely Okinawan dishes like deep-fried jimami (peanut) tofu and asa seaweed & burdock tempura fritters. For drinks, they offer Orion Beer as well as premium aged Awamori, Okinawa’s traditional liquor. Whether you're here for the food or simply to enjoy some drinks, Isun is a perfect choice for those seeking a local izakaya experience on Yonaguni Island.

5. Nishidomari Mochiya, Don’t Miss the Traditional Kubamochi from Yonaguni Island

When visiting Yonaguni Island, one local treat you absolutely must try is the traditional kubamochi. This delicacy is named after the kuba plant, a type of palm tree commonly found in lowlands and mountainous areas of Okinawa. Traditionally, the soft rice cake is wrapped in kuba leaves, hence the name kubamochi. It’s a nostalgic local favorite that offers a true taste of Yonaguni’s culinary heritage.

For the best kubamochi experience, look no further than Nishidomari Mochiya, a beloved spot on the island. Their kubamochi is available at the airport shop, making it perfect as a souvenir for family or friends. You can choose between two flavors—rich brown sugar (kokutō) and vibrant purple sweet potato (beni-imo). The former has a deep caramel color, while the latter boasts a striking purple hue.

Although kubamochi is soft when fresh, it tends to harden over time. But don’t worry—just heat it in the microwave for about 20 seconds, and it’ll become soft and chewy again. Its mildly sweet, rustic flavor brings a comforting taste of home, making it a thoughtful and heartwarming gift. If you’re looking for a gourmet souvenir from Yonaguni Island, kubamochi from Nishidomari Mochiya is a must-try.

◎ Summary

Aside from the recommended gourmet spots introduced here, there are still many hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered on Yonaguni Island. Located far from Okinawa’s main island and actually much closer to Taiwan, Yonaguni boasts a unique blend of food culture, traditions, and customs influenced by its geographical position. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and the vast ocean, the island is rich in diverse and fresh ingredients. Exploring gourmet spots on Yonaguni Island will surely become a fun and unforgettable part of your trip. Don’t just capture memories in photos—let your taste buds remember Yonaguni too!

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Don’t Miss Out! Top 5 Must-Try Food Spots in Yonaguni Island