How do you get to Yakushima Island?

Travelers can access Yakushima via air or sea. Ferries depart from Kagoshima to Yakushima, offering several trips daily. Alternatively, direct flights are available from Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport.

What is the best time to visit Yakushima Island?

Late spring through early autumn (May to October) is the ideal time to visit Yakushima, offering the most conducive weather for outdoor activities and hiking. However, Yakushima is known for its rainy climate, so prepare for rain at any time.

Are there any accommodations on Yakushima Island?

Yes, Yakushima offers a range of accommodations, from traditional guesthouses and ryokans to modern hotels. There are options suitable for various budgets and preferences.

What activities can you do on Yakushima Island?

Visitors can enjoy hiking through ancient cedar forests, visiting waterfalls, exploring the island's rugged coastlines, and watching wildlife. Trails are available for all levels of hikers, including paths that lead to the famous Jomon Sugi.

Is Yakushima Island suitable for families?

Yes, Yakushima offers activities and sights that visitors of all ages can enjoy. There are nature trails and sights that are accessible for families with children.

Yakushima

Yakushima Island

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Yakushima Island, located off the southern coast of Kyushu in Japan, is a natural wonderland. Famous for its ancient cedar trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most famous tree, Jomon Sugi, is believed to be more than 7,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living things on Earth.

The island's diverse ecosystem ranges from warm coastal areas to cool, misty mountains. This creates a unique environment where tropical and temperate plants coexist. Hiking through Yakushima’s dense forests, you’ll encounter lush moss, flowing streams, and a variety of wildlife, including deer and monkeys.

The island receives heavy rainfall, which contributes to its lush greenery. This frequent rain, along with the island's unique climate, has led to the saying that it "rains 35 days a month" on Yakushima.

Beaches like Isso and Kurio offer stunning coastal views, while waterfalls such as Oko-no-taki provide breathtaking scenery. Yakushima's natural beauty inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli's film "Princess Mononoke," adding a touch of magic to its already enchanting landscape.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed:

Irregular Holidays

Available:

All Year (Except Irregular Holidays)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

1,400 yen (Arakawa Mountain Entry bus)

300 yen (Onsen)

*Yakushima Island offers a variety of admission fees

The area

Address

Yakushima Island, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima, Japan

Top ways to experience Yakushima Island

5 hours

Explore Yakushima's Enchanting Forests on our Yakusugi Land Walking Tour

From $389 /person

What other travelers are saying about Yakushima Island

This island stole my heart and took my breath away. Hard to put into words how incredible the nature here is. Theres just gorgeous view after gorgeous view at every corner. All of the people we met on the island were the kindest human beings ever. I didn‘t want to leave and wish i couldve stayed here forever. I hope the island never changes and the people on it will keep protecting and nurturing the nature and animals here.