Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yakushima (Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture) is a naturally rich island located south of Kyushu and south of the mainland of Kagoshima. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, its most distinctive features are the deep primeval forest that dominates the center of the island and the Yakusugi cedar trees, which have a lifespan of thousands to thousands of years. Because the island is at a high altitude and there is a large difference in elevation from the sea to the summit, a diverse range of vegetation, from subtropical to subarctic, coexists, and many endemic and rare species live there.
The area receives a very high annual rainfall (4,000mm to 10,000mm or more in some places), and the mossy forest scenery, wet with mist and rain, exudes a unique mysticism. It is known for its scenery that has been used as a backdrop for movies and anime (for example, Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge is said to be one of the reasons for the image of "Princess Mononoke"), and is popular with nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Jomon cedar A representative example of Yakusugi cedars. The round trip from the Arakawa trailhead is a long trek (approximately 22km, 10-12 hours), so it is a major attraction for those with good walking ability.
- Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge — The moss and giant trees create a "Mononoke Forest"-like landscape. There are walking trails that can be enjoyed for half-day or full-day trips (approximately 2-4 hours round trip to Taiko Rock).
- Western Forest Road — A paved forest road where you can easily see Yaku deer and wild birds. Morning and evening drives are recommended.
- Senpiro Falls and Okono Falls — The island's stunning waterfalls. The view from the observation deck at Senhiro Falls is impressive, while Okawa Falls's sheer drop makes it a photogenic spot.
- Nagata Inakahama (sea turtle nesting site) This is a precious beach where you can sometimes see sea turtles coming ashore and laying eggs. Please note that there are restrictions on entry depending on the season and time of day.
- Exhibition facilities such as Yakusugi Land and Yakushima Environmental Culture Village Center — A spot where you can learn about Yakushima's nature and culture.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
There is no railway on the island. The most common ways to get to Yakushima are as follows:
- plane There are regular flights from Kagoshima Airport and Kagoshima City to Yakushima Airport (Yakushima Town). The flight takes about 30-40 minutes from Kagoshima. From the airport, you can travel to various locations by bus or taxi.
- Ferry/High-Speed Boat Ferries and high-speed boats operate from Kagoshima Port (ferry terminal and Saigo Don related area) to Miyanoura Port and Anbo Port on Yakushima. The high-speed boat (jetfoil, etc.) takes about 2-3 hours, and the ferry takes about 4 hours (varies depending on the type of boat and weather conditions).
- The nearest station on the mainland — The nearest major station is Kagoshima Chuo Station (on the mainland of Kagoshima). From Kagoshima Chuo Station, you can access the port and airport by bus or train (city bus, airport shuttle bus, etc.).
- Traveling within the island There are local buses that connect Miyanoura, Awa, Onoma, etc., but they run infrequently. To get to trailheads such as Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo, it's convenient to use early morning buses, mountain buses, taxis, or rental cars. It's recommended to make reservations for rental cars and motorbikes early during peak seasons.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: It is possible to take a round trip boat and do a short sightseeing tour (to the waterfall, observation deck, short walks), but the travel time is long so it is not recommended.
- 2 days, 1 night: A standard plan that includes Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, driving around the island, visiting waterfalls, and enjoying the atmosphere of Yakushima.
- 2 nights, 3 days: An ideal itinerary that combines Jomon Cedar trekking (1 day) with Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge and the Western Forest Trail.
- 3 nights or more: You can explore Yakushima thoroughly and add in the sea, forest trails, multi-day mountain trails (such as Miyanouradake) and activities (kayaking, snorkeling).
Nearby spots
- On the island: Yakusugi Land, Yakushima Nature Observation Trail, Nagata Inakahama Beach, Yakushima Lighthouse, photo spots and observation points along the Western Forest Road
- Nearby remote islands: Tanegashima (known for its rocket launch site) can be accessed by ferry or boat. Kagoshima mainland (Ibusuki, Sakurajima, etc.) can also be combined as part of a sightseeing route.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Weather and Operation — Yakushima experiences frequent rainfall and strong winds, and ferry and flight cancellations and delays occur frequently. Please plan your trip well in advance and be sure to check flight status before departing.
- Preparing for the trek — The trails to Jomon Sugi and Miyanouradake are long and steep, so hiking gear (waterproof clothing, warm clothing, hiking boots, food, drinks, a headlamp, etc.) is essential. Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge can also be slippery when it rains, so trekking shoes are recommended.
- Nature Conservation and Manners — Soft moss and leaf mold are very fragile. Please observe basic etiquette, such as staying on designated paths, not taking plants, stones, or trees, and always taking your trash with you. Yakushima is also a protected World Heritage Site, so please respect signs and regulations.
- Consideration for living creatures — Please do not feed Yaku deer or wild birds. Even if they are habituated to humans, they are still wild animals and can be dangerous and have a negative impact on the ecosystem.
- Leeches and mosquitoes Licks may appear during the rainy season or in damp areas. We recommend wearing long sleeves, long pants, spats (gaiters), and using insect repellent.
- Mobile and Communications — While there are generally no problems in urban areas on the island, cell phone signals may be lost in the mountains and some areas. Please prepare a map, compass, spare batteries, etc. in case of getting lost.
- congestion — During peak seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season), accommodation, rental cars, and mountain buses fill up quickly, so please make your reservations for accommodation and transportation early.
- Guides and Permits — If you are a beginner or are not confident in your physical strength, it is safer to consider using a local guide. Also, some mountain huts and facilities have reservation and usage rules. Please check with the official website or your accommodation for the latest information.
Tips and things to prepare: Before you go, check the weather forecast, operation information, and the latest conditions at the trailhead, and plan your equipment and itinerary with plenty of time. Yakushima is a place with a deep natural environment. With proper preparation and consideration, you will have a memorable experience.
