Last Updated: 12/09/2023
Yakushima island has, over the years, provided a haven not only for holiday goers seeking the respite of a subtropical paradise but also for green and loggerhead turtles in the endangered list. Favorable conditions by the Kuroshio current have ensured the thriving of a beautiful underwater world of sea goldies, butterflies, among other colorful marine life and plants, thereby resulting in incredible snorkeling, Stand Up Paddling(SUP) and kayaking opportunities. You’ll run into all manner and color of fishes, and unique aquatic life you had no idea even existed!
Home to the millennia-old Jōmon Sugi; and other massive cedars and rare wildlife and flora, Yakushima island is also a deserved World Heritage Site! Its enticing series of waterfalls and mountain peaks provide breathtaking scenery, with its most popular natural possession being the famous Shiratani Unsuikyo forest. The adorable Yaku deer and monkeys that have taken up residence here are sure to impress visitors just as much as the towering canopies of ancient cedars that have been around for centuries!
From inspiring backdrops to sea turtle-laden seas, Yakushima island is the very definition of an idyllic holiday. Get lost in the UNESCO woodlands, among many other experiences on a sightseeing extravaganza by mother nature!
1. Trekking in Shiratani Unsuikyo Forest
Yakushima trekking offers a flurry of island delight, the highlight of which is Shiratani Unsuikyo. A place of green rocks and ageless cedar trees, this beautiful valley has inspired a princess film! Hike under a sky of green leaves!
Shiratani Unsuikyo Trekking Tour (half-day course)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
A Refreshing One-Day Trekking Tour in the Misty Forests of Shiratani Unsuikyo
Yakushima, Kagoshima
2. Jōmon Sugi Tree Guided tours
A UNESCO World Heritage site of profound nature, Yakushima is home to the Jōmon Sugi, a massive cryptomeria tree believed to be more than 2,000 years old! Other Yakushima day trip options also include Yakusugi forest tours and climbing the Kuromidake mountain!
Two Days Trekking and Diving Experience (Jomon Cedar Trekking Course, and Yakushima Sea Diving)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Yakushima Forest Day Tour! Yakusugi Land & Yamato Sugi Tour
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Yakushima Forest Day Tour! Yakusugi Land Short Tour (with lunch)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
3. Ecotourism tours: Visit the gods
Experience the beauty of Yakushima Island by hiking its diverse terrains, from lush forests to towering mountains. Don't miss out on the chance to explore this natural wonderland. Additionally, enjoy freestyle hiking in Miyanoura and explore Mt. Tachu, believed to be home to gods!
Yakushima Forest Day Tour! Shiratani Unsuikyo Short Tour (with lunch)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
4. Canoeing in a sea of turtles
An island trip wouldn’t be complete without a canoeing tour across waters separating banks of lush nature. Aside from exquisite scenery of the hills and mountains from out on the water, you’re also bound to bump into brown sea turtles in one of Japan’s most fertile turtle egg-laying spots!
Miyanoura River Half-Day Kayaking Tour (Beginner-Friendly Experience)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
River kayak & experience diving 1 day course
Yakushima, Kagoshima
5. Tour the dark beauty of mountains at night
Beyond the cedars swaying in the night breeze, the Yakushima night sky is an endless field of twinkling stars and bright moons. Stroll the mountains’ dark beauty in the moonlight and warm up on bonfires, and with coffee and desserts!
6. Diving with fish of all color and size
Blessed by the Kuroshio currents that ensure warm temperatures throughout the year. Yakushima offers excellent conditions for marine life and human exploration. Diving in Yakushima means you get to see plenty of mackerel and flying fish!
Beginner-friendly Half-day Diving Experience
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Take a Leisurely Stroll Through the Beautiful Underwater Sea of Yakushima
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Diving Adventure with a Detailed Guide of the Creatures of the Sea
Yakushima, Kagoshima
7. Day trip on the island of waterfalls
The Janokuchi waterfall is a gently falling cascade of water, in divine seclusion on Yakushima island, while Ohko offers more dramatic gashes into a green pond. Yakushima features plenty of waterfall delight, including the powerful Senpiro waterfall that is responsible for a giant granite valley. It later on in its course leads to the Toroki falls!
Yakushima Forest Day Tour! Janoguchi Waterfall Short Tour (with lunch)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Trekking Jenoguchi Falls Course (Day trip plan)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
8. Snorkeling with sea turtles in Yakushima
Besides the abundance of jellyfish and loving sea turtles, Yakushima snorkeling also entails pygmy seahorses clinging for dear life on sea fans. More company in the water comes in the way of black sided hawkfish, ambling goatfish, and sea goldies swirling around in schools!
Let's Go Looking for Sea Turtles (Half-day Snorkeling Course)
Yakushima, Kagoshima
One-Day River Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure
Yakushima, Kagoshima
Enjoy Snorkeling Tour and Explore the Underwater World with Your Friends and Family
Yakushima, Kagoshima
In conclusion, Yakushima Island is truly a natural wonderland that offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure. From hiking its diverse terrains and immersing yourself in the lush forests to kayaking its crystal-clear waters and experiencing the island's unique culture, there is something for everyone on this World Heritage Site. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Yakushima Island, where nature meets adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhy is the island of Yakushima so special?
AYakushima is special because of its unique ecosystem and rich biodiversity, including ancient cedar trees, diverse marine life, and endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The island's natural beauty has also earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
QCan you stay on Yakushima Island?
AYes, there are accommodations available on Yakushima Island, including hotels, guesthouses, and camping facilities. Visitors can choose from a variety of options depending on their budget and preferences.
QHow do you get to Yakushima Island?
AYakushima Island can be reached by plane or ferry. There are several flights a day from Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport, which take about 35 minutes. The ferry departs from Kagoshima Port and takes about 2-3 hours to reach the island, depending on the type of ferry.
QDo you need a car in Yakushima?
AHaving a car can be convenient for exploring Yakushima Island, but it is not necessary. There are buses that cover most of the island's major attractions, and many tour operators offer guided tours to popular destinations. However, renting a car can provide more flexibility and allow visitors to explore the island at their own pace.
QHow long to spend in Yakushima?
AThe ideal amount of time to spend in Yakushima depends on your interests and itinerary. Most visitors spend at least 2-3 days on the island to explore its major attractions.
QWhat to do on Yakushima Island?
AYakushima Island offers a variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can hike through the island's lush forests and discover ancient cedar trees, kayak and snorkel in its crystal-clear waters, relax in one of its many hot springs, and sample local cuisine. Cultural sites such as the Yakushima Environmental Culture Village Center and the Anbo Harbor Market offer a glimpse into the island's unique history and culture.
QWhat is the best time to visit Yakushima Island?
AThe best time to visit Yakushima Island is between April and November when the weather is mild and the island is lush and green. However, the island can be visited year-round and each season offers a unique experience.
QAre there any guided trekking tours available on Yakushima Island?
AYes, there are many guided trekking tours available on Yakushima Island. These tours are led by experienced guides who are familiar with the island's terrain and can provide valuable insights into its history and ecology.