9 Hidden Landmarks With Jaw-Dropping Backstories Most Tourists Miss

4. The Underwater Ruins of Yonaguni

Off the coast of Japan lies the Yonaguni Monument, an underwater structure that has sparked debate among archaeologists and geologists. Discovered by a diver in 1985, the monument features terraces, steps, and flat surfaces that resemble a man-made complex. While some experts argue that the formations are natural, others believe they are the remnants of an ancient civilization predating recorded history. The Yonaguni Monument challenges our perceptions of early human settlements and raises questions about the possibility of lost civilizations submerged by rising sea levels, adding a new dimension to our understanding of human history.