Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Irifune

In the main village of Sonai, Yonaguni's Hotel Irifune is the place to stay for divers visiting Yonaguni. Owner Aratake-san discovered the famous Yonaguni Submarine Ruins (which may be either natural rock formations or a lost civilization). His dive shop Sou-Wes runs trips out to the ruins and the reef, and in the winter, hammerhead shark dives. Accommodations here are clean and functional, but if you're looking for something more comfortable inquire about the Irifune Annex Bamboo Villa. The villa has stunning ocean views and a vast communal lounge in which to relax after diving. A two-tank boat dive is ¥12,000 and full gear rental for a day is ¥5,000. During winter, the seas around Yonaguni are cold and choppy, so you need a thick wet suit and a strong stomach.