The island is surrounded by an atoll, primarily spreading to the west, with the East China Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

[2] Minnajima was historically host to a fishing village, with the local population reaching more than 200 adults.

Due to regular typhoon damage and water shortages, The majority of the residents of Minnajima were relocated to the Takano district of Hirara in 1961.

[3][4] A lighthouse was built on the southeastern portion of the island, first lit in 1972.

The light is 21m above sea level and is visible up to a distance of 12.0 nautical miles.