Yonaguni Town Council approves land lease to expand garrison area

The Yonaguni Town Council has unanimously approved a new land lease agreement with the Okinawa Defense Bureau to expand the area surrounding the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Yonaguni Garrison. The agreement involves leasing approximately 283,078 square meters of town-owned land for a 20-year period starting in early 2027.

This addition will nearly double the total area managed by the Defense Bureau at the site, bringing the total to approximately 498,310 square meters. The land, which consists of woodlands and sloping terrain, is intended to serve as security land to act as a buffer around the existing garrison.

During the deliberations, Mayor Tsuneo Uechi stated that the land is intended for security purposes and that no land development or construction is currently planned. While some council members raised concerns regarding lease rates, the potential for future construction, and the protection of cultural sites, the Mayor emphasized the necessity of balancing local life with national security.