The Yonaguni Monument, also known as the Yonaguni Submarine Ruins, is a submerged rock formation

located off the coast of Yonaguni Island in Japan. It gained international attention due to its unique and

controversial nature.

The Yonaguni Monument was discovered in 1986 by a local diver named Kihachiro Aratake. It lies about 5

kilometers off the coast of Yonaguni Island, which is part of the Ryukyu Islands chain in the East China Sea.

The monument consists of large, flat rocks and pillars that appear to be arranged in a deliberate manner. Some of the structures have sharp edges and right-angle corners. The main formation is often referred to

as the “Monument Platform” and is estimated to be around 90 meters long, 30 meters wide, and 20 meters high.

The Yonaguni Monument’s origin and purpose are the subject of debate among geologists, archaeologists, and scientists. Some argue that the structures are entirely natural and the result of

geological processes, such as tectonic activity and erosion. Others propose that the monument is man-made and suggest it might be an ancient, underwater city or temple complex.

Supporters of the natural formation theory argue that the monument’s features resemble similar geological formations found elsewhere, such as stepped formations and columnar joints. They suggest that the rocks were shaped by the erosion caused by the strong currents and waves in the region.

Regardless of its origins, the Yonaguni Monument has become a popular site for diving and attracts tourists, researchers, and enthusiasts from around the world. It has also sparked interest in the ancient

history and archaeology of the region.

Several scientific studies have been conducted to investigate the nature of the Yonaguni Monument.

Researchers have used techniques such as sonar mapping, underwater photography, and geological analysis to gather data. However, the results have not provided a definitive explanation for the

monument’s origins.

The Yonaguni Monument and its surrounding marine environment are protected by the Japanese

government as part of the Yonaguni-cho Iseki Hozon Chiku (Yonaguni-cho Cultural Heritage Preservation Zone). This designation aims to preserve the site’s natural and cultural significance.