Yakushima

Yakushima (屋久島) is a subtropical island located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its pristine natural beauty, unique wildlife, and lush forests. Visitors to Yakushima can explore several notable attractions, including Yakusugi Land, where you can easily observe Yakusugi cedar trees that are several hundred years old. Additionally, visitors can hike the scenic Shiratani Unsuikyo trail, a mystical valley said to have inspired the landscapes in the animated film Princess Mononoke, or see Jomon Sugi, one of the oldest cedar trees in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Yakushima Wildlife Center is a hub for the study and preservation of the island’s unique flora and fauna, which include the Yakushima macaque and Yaku deer. The island is also home to several hot springs, including Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, where visitors can relax in natural hot water while enjoying ocean views.

Nagata Inaka-hama is a picturesque beach with clear water and white sand. Visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine, which includes seafood and traditional Japanese dishes. The island can be accessed by ferry or plane from Kagoshima City.

Yakushima is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its stunning scenery and unique wildlife make it a must-visit location for those traveling to Japan.

Attractions in Yakushima

Shiratani Unsuikyo Shiratani Unsuikyo (白谷雲水峡) is a scenic hiking trail located in Yakushima, an island south of Kyushu in Japan. The trail is renowned for its lush, ancien...

Jomonsugi Jomon Sugi (縄文杉) is a large, ancient cedar tree located on the island of Yakushima, which is part of Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan. This tree is estimated...

Yakusugi Land Yakusugi Land (屋久杉ランド) is a nature park located on the island of Yakushima, which is part of Kagoshima Prefecture in Japan. The park is home to an anci...

Getting there and around

By Air

From Kagoshima Airport:

• Flight time: about 40 minutes
• 5 flights per day

From Osaka (Itami Airport):

• Flight time: about 1 hour 50 minutes
• 1 flight per day

From Fukuoka Airport:

• Flight time: about 1 hour 10 minutes
• 1 flight per day

By High-Speed Ferry (Jetfoil)

From Kagoshima Port South Pier High-Speed Ferry Terminal:

• Travel time: about 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes
• 6 round trips per day (including 3 via Tanegashima and 1 via Ibusuki)
• Fare: 12,200 yen one way

By Ferry

From Kagoshima Port South Pier Ferry Terminal:

• Travel time: about 4 hours
• 1 departure per day
• Fare: 6,000 yen (standard seat) or 7,300 yen (first-class seat) one way

Getting Around the Island

• Renting a car is the most convenient option. Car rental companies are available at the airport and Miyanoura Port.
• Buses are also available but don’t operate along the west coast.
• 1-day, 3-day, and 4-day bus passes are available (2,000 yen, 3,000 yen, and 4,000 yen respectively).

Note that it takes about 1 hour to get from Kagoshima Airport to the ferry terminal, so please consider this when planning your itinerary.