Things To Do
in Yakushima
Yakushima is a beautiful island located in southern Japan, known for its lush green forests and ancient cedar trees. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with its unique natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Yakushima is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering various trails and stunning viewpoints.
Its remote location and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a hike through the ancient cedar forests of Yakushima, where you can witness the majestic Jomon Sugi. The fresh mountain air and lush greenery will energize your spirit.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the picturesque Shiratani Unsuikyo, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Take in the sounds of the forest and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife.
Dine at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese cuisine. Relax and reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the warm ambiance.
Explore the beautiful coastline at Nagata Inakahama Beach, famous for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters. You can walk along the sandy shore or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Visit the Yakusugi Land for pleasant trails and boardwalks to admire ancient trees. Don’t forget to grab a snack at the visitor center.
Savor fresh seafood at a coastal restaurant overlooking the beach. Enjoy the calming sounds of waves as the sky transitions to twilight.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Biodiversity: Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning biodiversity including ancient cedar trees and rich wildlife.
- Natural Beauty: The island offers breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic coastline.
- Outdoor Activities: Visitors can engage in various outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and hot spring soaking.
- Cultural Heritage: Yakushima has a rich cultural history with traditional practices and local crafts to explore.
- Peaceful Environment: The island's remote location and natural surroundings provide a tranquil escape from urban life.
- Accessibility: Reaching Yakushima can be challenging as it requires a flight or ferry, which may be inconvenient for some travelers.
- Weather: The island experiences a lot of rainfall, particularly in the summer months, which can hinder outdoor activities.
- Cost: Travel expenses, accommodation, and food on the island can be relatively high compared to mainland Japan.
- Limited Amenities: As a remote island, some modern conveniences and amenities may be lacking or limited.
- Wildlife Concerns: While the biodiversity is a pro, it also means there are insects and pests like mosquitos that can be bothersome.
Best Activities in Yakushima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forests of Yakushima and encounter ancient cedar trees while hiking through designated trails in Yakusugi Land.
Trek along the Kumanota Trail to experience stunning views, diverse flora, and fauna, and the majestic scenery of Yakushima's mountainous terrain.
Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Yakushima Marine Park, which offers a glimpse of the rich marine life.
Relax in one of Yakushima's natural hot springs (onsen) after a day of outdoor adventures, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Spend a day at one of Yakushima's pristine beaches like Nagata Inakahama Beach, perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the ocean view.
Join a whale watching tour during the migration season to see these magnificent creatures and other marine wildlife around Yakushima.
Experience the calming effects of forest bathing by immersing yourself in the serene nature of Yakushima, promoting relaxation and well-being.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yakushima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yakushima
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning forest area features moss-covered trees and beautiful hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of nature's beauty, especially in early morning light.
A historical shrine surrounded by lush greenery and ancient cedar trees, offering picturesque photo opportunities, particularly during seasonal festivals.
As the highest peak in Yakushima, the summit offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts.
One of the oldest and largest cryptomeria trees in Japan, located deep within the forest. Its impressive height and grandeur are best captured in photographs.
This hot spring area provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean, especially beautiful at sunset.
A majestic waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff, surrounded by rich greenery, perfect for stunning nature photography.
The rugged coastline features dramatic cliffs and rocky beaches, offering countless spots for capturing the natural beauty of Yakushima's shoreline.
This picturesque waterfall is easily accessible and provides wonderful opportunities for scenic shots amidst the tranquil forest landscape.
Located at the northeastern tip of Yakushima, this cape offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands, especially captivating during sunrise.
A park featuring ancient cedar trees, walking paths, and forested areas that provide excellent opportunities to capture the enchanting atmosphere of Yakushima.
Food in Yakushima
Yakushima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kibinago, or silver-stripe round herring, is a local delicacy in Yakushima. Served as sashimi, the dish showcases the exceptionally fresh and flavorful fish, often accompanied by wasabi and soy sauce. Recommended places to try Kibinago Sashimi include seaside restaurants and traditional seafood eateries.
Must-Try!
Yakushima black pork is prized for its succulent, rich flavor and tender texture. This special breed of pork is reared on the island and can be savored in a variety of dishes, such as Yakushima black pork shabu-shabu, grilled skewers, or as a topping for ramen or udon noodles. Local izakayas and BBQ restaurants are popular spots to enjoy this local specialty.
Yakushima's fertile soil yields top-quality produce, including sweet and creamy kabocha (Japanese pumpkin). Savor the island's kabocha tempura, a delightful dish where the pumpkin is battered and fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft, luscious interior. Look for this dish at local tempura specialty restaurants and family-owned eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yakushima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Miyanoura offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample an assortment of street food, including yakitori skewers, takoyaki octopus balls, and freshly steamed buns filled with savory fillings. The market provides an authentic glimpse into Yakushima's culinary culture and is an ideal place to explore diverse flavors.
Located near Anbo Harbor, these seafood stalls brim with the catch of the day, showcasing an assortment of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and seaweed. Visitors can indulge in grilled seafood skewers, sashimi plates, and seafood donburi (rice bowls), all while taking in the picturesque waterfront scenery. The seafood here is as fresh as it gets, offering a true taste of the island's coastal treasures.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Yakushima is known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. Visitors should show respect for the environment by not littering, staying on designated paths, and minimizing noise to preserve the natural beauty and tranquility of the island.
In Japanese culture, politeness is essential. When greeting someone, a slight bow is customary. Using polite language and gestures is appreciated, and it's important to refrain from loud conversations in public spaces.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone’s home, traditional accommodations, or certain temples. Be prepared to follow this norm and wear clean socks or slippers provided.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yakushima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yakushima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yakushima, as well as the rest of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered unnecessary. Service staff, including those in restaurants, hotels, and taxis, generally take pride in their work and believe that good service is part of the job, not something that requires additional compensation. Instead of tipping, appreciation can be shown through polite thank-yous or small gifts, particularly in more personal settings.
Payment methods in Yakushima are similar to the rest of Japan. Cash is widely accepted and often preferred, especially in smaller establishments. Major credit cards are accepted in many hotels and larger restaurants, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases. ATMs are available, and many accept international cards, though it's advisable to check beforehand. When dining, it is customary to pay at the front counter rather than leaving money on the table.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yakushima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Yakushima. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Flowers bloom, and the island becomes lush and green. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.
Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures averaging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It can be rainy, particularly in June and July, but this is also the time to see the island’s abundant wildlife, including sea turtles nesting on beaches. Be prepared for possible tropical storms and higher humidity.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and less rainfall compared to summer. The foliage starts to change in October, providing beautiful landscapes. It’s an ideal time for trekking and outdoor activities with pleasant weather.
Winter (December to February) is relatively mild, with temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Snow is rare but possible at higher elevations. The island is quiet during this season, making it a peaceful time for those who enjoy solitude. It's important to dress warmly during hikes, especially in higher altitudes.
Yakushima at Night
Hiking in Yakushima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forest area known for its lush greenery and ancient cedar trees. It offers various hiking trails with stunning scenery, including moss-covered rocks and streams.
This trail leads you from Kujirahama Beach to scenic viewpoints. It’s a relatively easy hike perfect for families, with the chance to see local wildlife and beautiful ocean views.
The highest peak in Yakushima, offering challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views from the summit. The trail is steep but leads through diverse ecosystems.
A natural park featuring a network of trails through ancient cedar forests and along rivers. It's a great place for spotting wildlife and enjoying the serenity of nature.
Organized tours that combine kayaking and hiking, allowing you to explore both the coastal and inland areas of Yakushima. This option is great for those looking to experience a variety of landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yakushima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yakushima by plane.
The nearest major international airport to Yakushima, located approximately 120 kilometers away on the mainland.
A significant international airport in Okinawa, located roughly 230 kilometers from Yakushima.
An international airport in Fukuoka, about 330 kilometers away from Yakushima.
A major international airport located in Osaka, approximately 600 kilometers from Yakushima.
One of the largest airports in Japan, located in Tokyo, roughly 1000 kilometers away from Yakushima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, including various age groups and family structures.
Visitors from all over Japan and abroad, drawn to Yakushima's natural beauty and UNESCO World Heritage status.
A small community of expatriates and long-term foreign residents, involved in local businesses and cultural exchange.
The Soul of Yakushima
Discover the essence of Yakushima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Yakushima is known for its beautiful hiking trails, including routes through ancient cedar forests and mountainous terrain.
The coastal areas of Yakushima offer excellent surfing spots, attracting both locals and tourists looking to ride the waves.
Yakushima's waters are rich in marine life, making fishing a popular activity among both sport and recreational fishermen.
Cycling is a favorite way to explore the island's scenic beauty, with routes ranging from leisurely rides to more challenging terrains.
The island's diverse ecosystem makes wildlife watching particularly popular, whether it’s spotting rare birds or admiring the natural scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yakushima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Yakushima's cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, there are establishments that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants and cafes offer plant-based dishes showcasing the island's fresh produce, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based soups, and vibrant salads. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and some eateries are willing to accommodate special requests.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dining options in Yakushima. Several eateries craft gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, such as rice-based tempura, sashimi without soy sauce, and rice noodle soups. Communicating gluten-free requirements to restaurant staff is essential to ensure a satisfying dining experience while exploring the island's culinary offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yakushima with these cultural adventures.
