Which Island Has a Better View of the Starry Sky: Yoron Island or Iriomote Island?
Ah, the eternal question for starry-eyed travelers like me! I’ve been lucky enough to visit both Yoron Island and Iriomote Island, and let me tell
you, both are magical in their own way. But if you’re asking which one has the better view of the starry sky, well, that’s a story worth sharing. Grab a cup of tea (or maybe some Japanese snacks—I definitely overdid it on the mochi during my trips), and let me take you on a little journey.
Yoron Island: A Coastal Dream Under the Stars
Yoron Island was my first stop, and oh, what a dreamy little place it is. It’s tiny—so small that you can bike around the whole island in a day (which I did, and my legs were not happy with me afterward). But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. The beaches are pristine, the locals are warm and welcoming, and the night sky? Absolutely breathtaking. One evening, I decided to head to Yurigahama Beach, a spot famous for its starry views. I arrived way too early (classic me—I’m always either too early or too late), so I ended up sitting on the sand, munching on some shrimp crackers I’d bought from a tiny shop earlier. As the sun set, the sky transformed into a canvas of deep blues and purples, and then—boom—the stars came out. It was like someone had sprinkled glitter across the heavens. I could see the Milky Way so clearly, it felt like I could reach out and touch it. What made it even more special was the silence. No city noise, no distractions—just the sound of the waves and the occasional rustle of palm leaves. I even met a local fisherman who was out for a late-night stroll. He pointed out constellations I’d never heard of and shared stories about the stars from Okinawan folklore. It was one of those moments that made me feel so connected to the world and its people.
Iriomote Island: A Jungle Adventure Under the Cosmos
Now, let’s talk about Iriomote Island. This place is wild—literally. It’s covered in dense jungles, mangrove forests, and winding rivers. It’s the kind of island where you half expect to see a dinosaur pop out of the bushes (spoiler: I didn’t, but I did see a giant coconut crab, which was equally thrilling). Stargazing here is a different vibe altogether. Because of the thick vegetation, finding a completely open spot can be a bit tricky. But don’t let that deter you! I found a little clearing near Urauchi River, and let me tell you, it was worth the mosquito bites I endured to get there. The jungle creates this incredible frame around the sky, like you’re peeking through a natural window into the universe. One night, I joined a guided stargazing tour (because, let’s be real, I didn’t trust myself not to get lost in the jungle). Our guide, a hilarious guy named Hiro, had this knack for making astronomy sound like a comedy show. He pointed out planets, told us about the myths behind the constellations, and even let us use his telescope to see Saturn’s rings. I’ll never forget the collective “whoa” from our group when we saw it. It was like being a kid again, full of wonder and awe.
So, Which Island Wins the Starry Sky Showdown?
Honestly, it’s hard to pick a favorite. Yoron Island offers that classic, open-sky experience with its coastal views and serene atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to lie back on the sand and feel like the stars are wrapping you in a cosmic hug. On the other hand, Iriomote Island’s jungle setting adds a layer of mystery and adventure to stargazing. It’s like the stars are playing hide-and-seek with you through the trees. If I had to choose, I’d say Yoron Island edges out slightly for its unobstructed views and that magical Milky Way moment. But Iriomote Island’s unique charm and the thrill of stargazing in the jungle make it a close second. Really, you can’t go wrong with either.
What About You?
Have you been to either of these islands? Or maybe you’ve found another hidden gem for stargazing in Japan? I’d love to hear your stories and tips! Drop a comment below and let’s geek out about the stars together. And if you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to pack some snacks—trust me, you’ll need them for those late-night sky-watching sessions. 🌌✨
