Things To Do
in Yakushima
Yakushima is a lush, rain-soaked island off Kagoshima in southern Japan, famed for ancient cedar forests and dramatic coastal scenery. Its UNESCO-listed groves, including the moss-draped Shiratani Unsuikyo and the legendary Jomon Sugi, invite immersive nature experiences. The island blends rugged mountains, clear rivers, and traditional villages with hot springs and serene seas.
Visitors come for wildlife, misty landscapes, and a sense of timeless tranquility that lingers long after the trip ends.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yakushima Airport and take a scenic drive to your accommodations while soaking in the lush green landscapes. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café that offers specialties made from the island's fresh ingredients. Spend the morning getting acquainted with the area, perhaps visiting the Yakushima Environmental Culture Center to learn about the island’s unique ecosystem.
Head out to explore Shiratani Unsuikyo, a stunning ancient cedar forest known for its hiking trails and mystical moss-covered trees. Spend your afternoon trekking among towering Yakusugi trees, some of which are over a thousand years old, and marvel at the serene beauty of the landscape. Bring your camera along to capture panoramic views and the enchanting atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up, then head out to a local izakaya for dinner, sampling regional dishes like fresh sashimi and grilled fish. After your meal, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the coast while taking in the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean. End your day by unwinding in an onsen, soaking in the therapeutic waters surrounded by nature.
After breakfast, gear up for a day of adventure in Yakusugi Land, an area dedicated to the protection of the ancient cedars. Follow the well-maintained trails that meander among these colossal trees, offering up-close encounters with nature's wonders. The crisp morning air, filled with the scent of cedar, makes for an invigorating start to your day.
Pause for a packed lunch amidst the woods, enjoying the peace and tranquil sounds of nature. Continue your hike, tackling more challenging trails that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the majestic mountains. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife that calls this area home, including the Yakushima macaque and various bird species.
Return to your lodging to rest and reflect on the day’s adventure, perhaps sharing stories with fellow travelers. Treat yourself to another delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying new dishes inspired by Yakushima’s culture. As night falls, take a moment to gaze at the stars, enjoying the clear skies away from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $40-70 |
| 🧭One-day guided hiking tour | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning ancient cedar forests and mossy landscapes
- Rich natural beauty with fewer crowds than mainland destinations
- Gentle, friendly local culture and excellent onsen experiences
- Clear access to coastal scenery and wildlife opportunities
- Limited nightlife and some services in English may be sparse
- Weather can be unpredictable; many trails require good preparation
- Remote island logistics—plan ferries and flights in advance
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
- "Hai / iie" - Yes / No
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Nihongo ga sukoshi hanasemasu" - I can speak a little Japanese
- "Doko desu ka?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Yakushima
Visit one of these nice places.
A moss-draped cedar forest with emerald streams and misty atmospheres, ideal for tranquil green-toned photographs.
Ancient cedar forest framing dramatic, time-defying scenery; early morning light can create magical silhouettes and textures.
A tall, powerful cascade with options for long-exposure shots to capture silky water motion.
Low-lying boats, golden water, and a calm harbor vibe perfect for coastal sunset photography.
Food in Yakushima
Yakushima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lightly seared skipjack tuna served with garlic, ginger, and ponzu; a staple at seaside eateries and izakayas.
Must-Try!
Dishes featuring Kagoshima’s famous black pork, such as shogayaki or braised preparations, common in local izakayas and family-run eateries.
A bowls of rice topped with fresh local seafood such as tuna, salmon, and seasonal catches; best found at harbor-front spots or inexpensive eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small seaside market with vendors selling fresh fish, seaweed, local vegetables, and quick bites to eat on the go.
Market in Anbo offering rustic foods and souvenirs; try grilled fish skewers and seasonal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep voices down on trails and in public spaces. Respect wildlife and avoid feeding animals.
Wash thoroughly before entering, do not wear swimwear, and keep towels out of the baths. Follow posting guidelines and be mindful of others.
Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces. Use provided slippers and handle doors politely.
Safety
Tipping in Yakushima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Yakushima. Excellent service is expected as standard; simply express gratitude with a courteous thank you.
Cash is widely used in rural areas and markets. Credit cards are accepted in larger towns and many hotels, but always carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, and mountain huts. ATMs in banks and convenience stores are common but may have limited hours.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery and early wildflowers. Trails can be muddy after rain, so waterproof gear helps.
Hot, humid, and very rainy at times; expect frequent showers and lush landscapes. Typhoon season can affect plans; carry rain gear and plan flexible hikes.
Pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage in higher elevations; excellent for photography and hiking, with fewer crowds.
Milder than the mainland but cool; occasional mist and clear, crisp days. Higher trails may be chilly; bring layers and waterproof footwear.
Yakushima at Night
Hiking in Yakushima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Long, iconic hike through ancient cedar forest; plan a full-day trip with proper gear.
Moderate to easy forest walk famous for mossy trees and scenic pools.
Challenging ascent to Yakushima’s highest peak with rewarding coastal and island views.
Accessible waterfall hike suitable for a shorter excursion and photography.
Airports
How to reach Yakushima by plane.
Small domestic airport on the island with flights primarily to Kagoshima and Osaka; convenient for island-to-mainland travel.
Main gateway to Kagoshima Prefecture; from here you can take a ferry or bus to Yakushima or connect to other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A close-knit community with strong ties to forestry, fishing, and traditional crafts.
Visitors drawn to the UNESCO landscapes, hot springs, and coastal scenery.
People who support the island’s tourism infrastructure, particularly in peak hiking seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Well-loved for forest treks, including the Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo routes.
Coastal waters offer marine life observations and clear underwater scenery.
Sea kayaking along the coast provides unique vantage points of cliffs and sea caves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yakushima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood and dashi-based stock are common, you can still enjoy vegetables, rice, tofu, seaweed, and tempura made with seasonal vegetables. Communicate dietary needs in Japanese (vegetarian: bejitarian) and look for places that offer tofu dishes or vegetable donburi. Ask for meals prepared with no meat or fish stock when possible.