Yakushima, Japan Travel Guide

Discover Yakushima, Japan's enchanted island with ancient cedar trees, mystical forests, and breathtaking hiking trails.

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Yakushima

Yakushima, located off the southern coast of Kyushu, is a lush, green island known for its mystical forests and ancient cedar trees. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this small island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island's landscape is a mix of dense forests, rugged mountains, and flowing rivers, making it a perfect destination for hiking, exploring, and reconnecting with nature. One of the main attractions on Yakushima is the Jomon Sugi, an ancient cedar tree estimated to be over 7,000 years old. Hiking to this legendary tree is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the island's primeval past. Along the way, you'll encounter other impressive sights such as the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, which inspired the lush scenery in Studio Ghibli's film 'Princess Mononoke.' Yakushima's unique climate, with heavy rainfall and subtropical temperatures, creates an enchanting atmosphere where moss-covered trees and misty valleys transport visitors to another world. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Yakushima macaques and Yaku deer, which can often be spotted during hikes. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or an adventurous trek through ancient forests, Yakushima offers an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yakushima.

Pack waterproof gear, as Yakushima is known for its frequent and heavy rainfall.
Plan your hikes early in the day to avoid the afternoon mist and ensure you have enough daylight.
Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially from the Yakushima macaques and Yaku deer.
Try the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood and flying fish dishes unique to the island.
Consider hiring a local guide for an enriching experience, as they can provide insights into the island's history and natural wonders.

Explore Yakushima: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Yakushima

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Senpiro Falls

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Senpiro Falls, a stunning waterfall in Yakushima surrounded by lush nature and serene landscapes.

4.3

Wilson's Stump

Discover the ancient heart of Yakushima at Wilson's Stump, a majestic cedar remnant offering a unique glimpse into the island's natural history.

4.6

宮之浦岳

Conquer Kyushu's highest peak on Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering unparalleled natural beauty and panoramic views.

4.8

Daio Sugi

Witness the grandeur of Daio Sugi, an ancient cedar on Yakushima Island, offering an up-close encounter with nature's giants.

4.6

Best landmarks in Yakushima

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Shiratani Unsui Gorge

Explore the lush beauty of Shiratani Unsui Gorge, a scenic gem in Yakushima, featuring ancient cedar forests and stunning hiking trails.

4.7

Yakusugi Land

Explore Yakusugi Land: a UNESCO World Heritage nature preserve in Yakushima known for its ancient cedar trees and stunning hiking trails.

4.5

Ohko Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohko Waterfall in Yakushima, a natural wonder amidst lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.6

Jōmon Sugi

Discover the ancient beauty of Jōmon Sugi, Japan's oldest cedar tree, nestled in the lush landscapes of Yakushima's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.6

Best restaurants in Yakushima

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Shiosai

Experience authentic Japanese tempura at Shiosai in Yakushima—where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence.

4.3

Iso no Kaori

Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Iso no Kaori in Yakushima - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.

4.4

Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant

Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine with an Italian twist at Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant on beautiful Yakushima Island.

4.4

Wakadaisho

Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.

4.7

Best bars in Yakushima

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SamPotei

Experience the essence of modern Japanese dining at SamPotei, Yakushima's premier izakaya with a vibrant atmosphere and exquisite local flavors.

4.7

DINING CAFE BAR SLOW

Discover the taste of Italy in Yakushima at Dining Cafe Bar Slow, where authentic flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Hitomekuri

Discover the serene charm of Hitomekuri, a cafe in Yakushima where coffee, fine wine, and local cuisine meet breathtaking natural beauty.

4.1

Seirios

Discover the flavors of Japan at Seirios, an izakaya in Yakushima offering fresh, authentic cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Yakushima

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Yakushima Airport (KUM)

Explore Yakushima Island's natural wonders with ease, starting from Yakushima Airport, your gateway to adventure and serenity.

3.7

Panorama

Experience the fusion of traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine at Panorama, Yakushima's premier izakaya restaurant with delightful vegetarian options.

4.5

Yakushima-todai Lighthouse

Discover the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse: a stunning blend of history, nature, and breathtaking ocean views on Yakushima Island.

4.2

屋久島ダイビングサービスもりとうみ

Explore the underwater wonders of Yakushima with Mori to Umi, your gateway to exhilarating diving adventures and vibrant marine life.

4.8

Best shops in Yakushima

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Pukaridō

Explore Pukaridō in Yakushima for unique souvenirs and local liquors, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

4.4

Life Center Yakuden

Discover the essence of local living at Life Center Yakuden, your go-to supermarket in the heart of Yakushima, offering fresh produce and local delicacies.

3.8

Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi

Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.

4.4

JA Tanega Yaku Pontan-kan

Experience Yakushima's rich agricultural heritage at JA Tanega Yaku Pontan-kan, a vibrant farmers' market offering fresh produce and unique local gifts.

3.8

Explore Yakushima on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Yakushima, mapped for you.

Yakushima Essentials

Yakushima is an island located off the southern coast of Kyushu in Japan. The most common way to reach Yakushima is by air or sea. You can fly from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka to Yakushima Airport. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Kagoshima. There are two types of ferries: the high-speed Jetfoil, which takes about 2 hours, and the slower car ferry, which takes around 4 hours.
Once on Yakushima, you have several options for getting around. Rental cars are popular and allow you to explore the island at your own pace. There are also local buses that connect major attractions, but they run infrequently, so check schedules in advance. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer distances. Bicycles can be rented in some areas for a more eco-friendly way to explore.
The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or smaller establishments. ATMs are available but may not always support international cards, so consider withdrawing sufficient cash before arriving on the island.
Yakushima is generally very safe for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas. The island's weather can change rapidly, so always check forecasts and be prepared for rain.
In case of an emergency, dial 119 for fire and medical emergencies or 110 for police assistance. Yakushima has a local hospital and several clinics, but for serious medical issues, you may need to be transported to a larger facility on Kyushu. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially for hiking. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting shrines and temples. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as buses and ferries run on strict schedules. Don't speak loudly or use your phone on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like flying fish and Yakushima oranges. Don't leave food uneaten, as it can be considered wasteful.
To experience Yakushima like a local, consider staying in a traditional ryokan or minshuku. Participate in local festivals if your visit coincides with one. Visit the local markets and try fresh, locally-sourced produce. Engage with locals; they are often very friendly and willing to share insights about the island's culture and history. Don't miss hiking in the ancient cedar forests, particularly to see the Jomon Sugi, one of the oldest trees in the world.

When is the best time to visit Yakushima?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Yakushima

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Yakushima. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
- Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayōnara]
- Yesはい
  [Hai]
- Noいいえ
  [Īe]
- Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Dōzo]
- Thank youありがとうございます
  [Arigatō gozaimasu]
- Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
- How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
- Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
- Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
- I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せていただきたいのですが
  [Menyū o misete itadakitai no desu ga]
- I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
- Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]
- Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
- Go away!去ってください！
  [Satte kudasai!]
- Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [Keisatsu o yonde kudasai!]
- Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [Isha o yonde kudasai!]
- I'm lost迷子です
  [Maigo desu]
- I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]
- I'd like to buy...買いたいものがあります
  [Kaitai mono ga arimasu]
- I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [Miteru dake desu]
- How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
- That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
- Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]
- What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
- It's one o'clock一時です
  [Ichiji desu]
- Half past (10)十時半です
  [Jūji han desu]
- Morning朝
  [Asa]
- Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
- Evening夕方
  [Yūgata]
- Yesterday昨日
  [Kinō]
- Today今日
  [Kyō]
- Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
- 1一
  [Ichi]
- 2二
  [Ni]
- 3三
  [San]
- 4四
  [Yon]
- 5五
  [Go]
- 6六
  [Roku]
- 7七
  [Nana]
- 8八
  [Hachi]
- 9九
  [Kyū]
- 10十
  [Jū]
- Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  […wa doko desu ka?]
- What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [Chizu de misete moraemasu ka?]
- When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
- A ticket (to ....)…へのチケット
  […e no chiketto]

History of Yakushima

Yakushima is home to some of Japan's oldest and most majestic cedar trees, known as 'yakusugi.' These ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, have been revered by locals and visitors alike for centuries. The Jomon Sugi, the island's most famous tree, is estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old, making it one of the oldest living things on Earth. The dense, misty forests of Yakushima have inspired countless myths and legends over generations.
In 1993, Yakushima was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique ecosystem and the ancient cedar forests. This designation helped to bring international attention to the island, promoting conservation efforts and increasing tourism. The recognition highlights Yakushima's significant natural value and the need to preserve its pristine environment for future generations.
Yakushima has a deep connection with Japanese mythology. The island is often associated with the spirits of the forest and is believed to be a sacred place where gods and deities reside. The dense forests and the mystical atmosphere of the island have inspired many stories in Japanese folklore. These myths contribute to the island's cultural heritage and continue to attract visitors interested in Japan's spiritual and mythical past.
The enchanting landscapes of Yakushima have served as an inspiration for various forms of art, including Japanese cinema. Most notably, the island's lush forests were the inspiration for the animated film 'Princess Mononoke' by Studio Ghibli. The film's depiction of the relationship between humans and nature captures the essence of Yakushima's environment, bringing the island's beauty and mystique to a global audience.
Yakushima is renowned for its diverse climate zones, ranging from subtropical at the coast to cool temperate in the mountains. This variation results in a rich biodiversity, with a wide range of plant and animal species. The island is home to endemic species such as the Yaku macaque and the Yaku deer. The unique climate and biodiversity of Yakushima have been subjects of scientific study and are crucial aspects of the island's natural history.
The people of Yakushima have developed unique cultural practices and traditions influenced by the island's natural environment. Local festivals, such as the Yakusugi Festival, celebrate the island's ancient trees and the community's connection to nature. Traditional crafts, including woodworking and cedar-related products, reflect the islanders' resourcefulness and respect for their natural surroundings.