Guide to how to spend the night in Yakushima! From night tours to nightlife and starry sky spots!

What is the nighttime attraction of Yakushima?
Enjoy a different look from daytime!

Night time in Yakushima has a different charm from mountain climbing and snorkeling during the day.

In this column,Types of night tours, starry sky spots, downtown informationThis section provides in-depth information on how to enjoy the nightlife of Yakushima to its fullest.

We hope you will find this information useful, whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor!

Until nightfall on Yakushima
Enjoy Yakushima's popular activities↓

Yakushima/Chartered]Even 75-year-olds can participate! You can choose the route according to your fitness level☆Estimated age of the 7200-year-old "Jomon Cedar" trekking tour (No.38)開始時間4:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 10 hours17,600 yen

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 (March - October)所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

Yakushima/One-day charter] 75-year-olds can also join this tour! You can choose the route ☆ "Shiratani-unsui Gorge" of mossy forest & "Taikoiwa" of 1,050m high "Trekking tour with spectacular view (No.40)開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours13,500 yen

Held in Yakushima!
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Yakushima Night Tour
Recommendation 4

The most dynamic way to enjoy the night in Yakushima,Guided night toursIt is.

All of them can be experienced only on Yakushima Island, which is rich in nature.

Most of them require advance reservations, so check before you travel!

Click here for tours held in the evening and at night on Yakushima↓

[Yakushima / Evening–Night] Available only from May to July! Enjoy the sunset from an observation deck and at Inaka Beach, and join a sea turtle nesting observation tour♪ (Light meal included) (No. 119)開始時間: 6:30 p.m. – midnight所要時間: About 5.5 hours22,000 yen

About Popular Activities on Yakushima ↓

Introducing sightseeing spots and activity tours that you should not miss on your trip to Yakushima!A must-see for those traveling to the World Heritage Site of Yakushima! A thorough explanation of recommended tours and sightseeing spots Yakushima Island, registered as a World Heritage Site, is an attractive sightseeing spot with abundant nature and full of activities. In this issue, we will introduce the recommended tours in the World Heritage Site "Yakushima" and the places to visit that you must [...]...

Night forest walking tour

The deep forests of Yakushima change their atmosphere at night to something completely different from that of the daytime.

Walking through the forest at night with a guide,Yakushima sika deer and yakushima macaquecan also be seen in action up close.

The experience of being enveloped by the moonlight shining through the trees and the silence of the forest is a must for nature lovers.

Enjoy an extraordinary night stroll with a flashlight in hand.

Click here for popular private guided tours on Yakushima ↓

Yakushima/Chartered]Even 75-year-olds can participate! You can choose the route according to your fitness level☆Estimated age of the 7200-year-old "Jomon Cedar" trekking tour (No.38)開始時間4:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 10 hours17,600 yen

Yakushima/Half-day charter] Even 75-year-olds can participate! Trekking tour to enjoy the Mononoke Forest of "Shiratani-unsui Gorge," which was the setting of a movie (No.39)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours11,000 yen

Yakushima/One-day charter] 75-year-olds can also join this tour! You can choose the route ☆ "Shiratani-unsui Gorge" of mossy forest & "Taikoiwa" of 1,050m high "Trekking tour with spectacular view (No.40)開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours13,500 yen

About the wildlife on Yakushima ↓

What Kinds of Wildlife Are Found on Yakushima? An Easy-to-Understand Guide to Endemic and Endangered SpeciesWhat Makes Yakushima’s Wildlife So Fascinating? An Explanation of Why It Has So Many Endemic Species Yakushima is a World Natural Heritage site located in Kagoshima Prefecture, and its rich natural environment is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Due to its significant elevation range—which spans from the coast to the alpine zone within a single island—sub […]

Stargazing Tour

Yakushima Island isLow light pollutionThe sky will be full of stars when the conditions are right.

During the stargazing tours, expert guides explain about constellations and celestial bodies, so you don't need to have any knowledge of astronomy to enjoy the tour.

The Milky Way is clearly visible to the naked eye.Often, tours that provide photographic assistance are also popular.

It is recommended for couples and families!

About places to view the starry sky on Yakushima ↓

A complete guide to the starry sky of Yakushima! Thorough explanation of Milky Way spots and starry sky tour information!Why Is the Night Sky on Yakushima So Special? Experience a Sky Full of Stars on This World Natural Heritage Island Yakushima is a remote island located south of Kagoshima Prefecture that was designated a World Natural Heritage Site in 1993. Since most of the island is free from light pollution, it’s possible to see stars that are difficult to spot in urban areas […]

Night Safari Tour

A night safari that takes you around Yakushima at night while riding in a car or baby carriage is perfect for those who want to enjoy themselves in an active way.

Along the road at nightYakushima deer and raccoon dogsYou might come across things like these.

The tour is very satisfying for both adults and children, as the guides provide detailed information about the animals' ecology.

About the animals you can encounter on Yakushima ↓

What kind of animals can we see in Yakushima? From deer and monkeys to endangered speciesWhat kind of animals live on Yakushima Island? The island of Yakushima is registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and its pristine nature remains untouched. The island, which has a very high annual rainfall and mountainous terrain, has nurtured a unique ecosystem and is home to many [...]...

Sea Turtle Observation Tour

Yakushima Island isOne of Japan's leading loggerhead turtle spawning groundsIt is known as the

The spawning season is mainlyMay-Augustand can be observed landing on the beach at night.

The guides carefully explain the rules of ecological conservation, so you can observe sea turtles without stressing them out.

It is a memorable experience of a lifetime and is loved by many repeat visitors.

You may see sea turtles!
↓Click here for recommended tours

Yakushima Island/3 hours】March〜November limited！OK from 5 years old☆Encounter rate 80% or more! Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour *Free Photo & Movie (No.11)開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 (March - October)所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

Yakushima Island/3.5 hours】We welcome beginners to experience the mysterious sensation! Encounter rate is more than 80%! Sea Turtle Experience Diving ★Free Photo (No.64)開始時間8:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 (March - October)所要時間Approx. 3.5 hours12,000 yen

Yakushima Island/One-Day River Kayak & Snorkeling Tour (with free rental of underwater digital camera and lunch)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Yakushima Sea Turtle Tour
Click here for popular plans

If you want to see the starry sky in Yakushima, this is the place!
Five recommended spots

Even if you don't join a night tour,A spot where you can enjoy the starry sky at your own paceThere are many places to visit in Yakushima.

Many of these places are easily accessible with a rental car.

Until nightfall on Yakushima
Enjoy Yakushima's popular activities↓

Tours Limited】【Yakushima/1 day】One private tour by a female guide! Completely customized tour☆Yakushima recommended natural spots and famous sightseeing spots are available upon request!開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours15,000 yen

Yakushima / 1 day] Fully chartered tour for your peace of mind! Jomon Cedars Trekking in Yakushima, a World Natural Heritage Site《Age 6 years old and up, pick-up and drop-off included》（No.90)開始時間4:00 - 7:00 p.m.所要時間1 day10,800 yen

Yakushima/Half Day] Beginners are welcome! Shiratani-unsuikyo" standard trekking tour to the Mononoke Forest 《Participation OK up to 70 years old, pick-up and drop-off included》（No.71）.開始時間7:45-12:30 / 12:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours8,800 yen

Held in Yakushima!
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Nagata Inaka Beach

Nagata Inaka Beach, located in the northwestern part of Yakushima Island, is at the same time one of the best loggerhead turtle spawning grounds in Japan,Places to see the starry skyIt is also known as

With few streetlights and almost no obstructions to the view, visitors can enjoy a star-filled sky stretching to the horizon.

The contrast between the sea and the starry sky is breathtaking, and it is no exaggeration to say that this is the best starry sky spot on Yakushima.

Please note that at Nagata Beach (Inaka Beach, Maehama, and Yotsuse Beach), in order to protect sea turtles,Please refrain from entering the beach from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning, from May 1 through September 30.There is a rule. During this period, you are not allowed to go down to the beach at night to stargaze.

From around May 10 to July 10, when nesting activity is at its peak, the Nagata Sea Turtle Liaison Council operatesObservation Sessions by Advance Reservation OnlyI will participate and take a tour.

Since the schedule and reservation procedures vary from year to year, please check the latest information in advance with the Ministry of the Environment’s Yakushima Nature Conservation Office or similar agencies.

Details of Nagata Inaka Beach

◆Address: Nagata, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima
◆Access: 42 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport

Is Nagata Inakahama on Yakushima a Sea Turtle Nesting Site? A Guide to Observing Hatching and Enjoying SnorkelingWhat Is Nagata Inaka Beach on Yakushima? Japan’s Largest Sea Turtle Nesting Site In this column, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to Nagata Inaka Beach on Yakushima, including how to get there, the sea turtle nesting and hatching seasons, observation tours, and popular snorkeling spots on Yakushima. Even first-time visitors can easily […]

Click here for more information about Nagata Inakahama ↓

Is Nagata Inakahama on Yakushima a Sea Turtle Nesting Site? A Guide to Observing Hatching and Enjoying SnorkelingWhat Is Nagata Inaka Beach on Yakushima? Japan’s Largest Sea Turtle Nesting Site In this column, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to Nagata Inaka Beach on Yakushima, including how to get there, the sea turtle nesting and hatching seasons, observation tours, and popular snorkeling spots on Yakushima. Even first-time visitors can easily […]

Haruta Beach

Haruta Beach, not far from Yakushima Airport, is popular among travelers as an easily accessible starry sky spot.

Fewer obstructionsWide view of the skyTherefore, it is suitable for stargazing.

It is also relatively close to lodging facilities, making it an attractive place to stop by after dinner.

Click here for more information about Haruta Beach ↓

Healing Holidays on Yakushima Island! Thorough guide to the attraction and access of Haruta BeachEnjoy a vacation surrounded by nature! Discover the charms of Harutahama Beach on Yakushima. Harutahama Beach is a quiet, peaceful beach located in the southern part of Yakushima. Known for its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. With relatively few tourists […]

Ookawa Falls (Ookonotaki)

The 100 best waterfalls in JapanOkawa Falls, which has been selected as one of the best waterfalls in Japan, is famous as a sightseeing spot during the daytime, but at night it turns into a fantastic place where visitors can enjoy the collaboration of the starry sky and the waterfalls.

A flashlight is required for nighttime access, but it makes the experience all the more extraordinary.

The footing may be wet, so visit with non-slip shoes.

Details of Okawa Falls

◆Address: Kurio, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
◆Access: 57 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport

Yakushima-Ogawa Falls   About Okawa Falls The largest waterfall on Yakushima Island is Okawa Falls, which has been selected as one of the 100 most famous waterfalls in Japan. It is located at the southern entrance of the western forest road in Yakushima Town. The waterfall rises 88 meters from a rugged granite cliff to a height of 9 [...].

Click here for more information about Okawa Falls ↓

Okawa Falls, Yakushima Island: Spectacular view with a drop of 88 meters! How to get there, time required, and parking guideRecommended for beginners in Yakushima! What kind of place is Okawa Falls? Okawa Falls, located in the southwestern part of Yakushima Island, is one of the most scenic spots on the island. Boasting a drop of approximately 88 meters, it is the largest waterfall on the island and was selected as one of the "100 Best Waterfalls in Japan" by the Ministry of the Environment [...].

Click here for recommended tours of Okawa Falls ↓

Yakushima Island/1 day] Jungle trekking in the Seibu Forest Road, a World Heritage forest☆Get up close to Yakusaru monkeys and Yakushika deer! Also stop by Okawa Falls 《with packed lunch and pickup service》（No.115）.開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours12,500 yen

Tours Limited] [Trekking in Yakushima] A female guide will take you on a private tour! One-day course to visit Okawa Falls, Inaka Beach, Yokogawa Valley, and recommended spots 《Photo Free》（No.87）.開始時間8:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours12,100 yen

[Yakushima / 1 Day] Private Tour for Adult Women ☆ The 3,000-Year-Old “Kigen-sugi” Cedar + 50-Minute Course at Yakusugi Land! Chihiro Falls, Troki Falls, Okawa Falls, Western Forest Road, Inaka Beach (Lunch Included) (No. 118)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.所要時間: Approximately 7.5 hours27,500 yen

Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen

Natural underwater hot springs that can be entered only at low tideThe Yakushima Island is one of the most unique spots on Yakushima Island.

You can soak in a hot spring while gazing at the stars at night, a rare experience in the world.

Although caution is required as it is a mixed bath, the extraordinary feeling is outstanding!

You may not bathe while wearing a swimsuit or underwear, but you are allowed to enter the bath wrapped in a towel.

The time of low tide varies from day to day.Check tide tablePlease visit after doing so.

Details of Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen

◆Address: Hirauchi, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima, Japan
Access: 39 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport

Yakushima - Hirauchi Underwater Hot Springs   About Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen is located about 1 hour and 10 minutes by bus from Miyanoura Port, getting off at the Kainaka Onsen bus stop and walking 5 minutes. There are 4 parking lots, and it is open year-round. The bathing fee is about Kokorozashi. The flat [...].

Around Yakushima Lighthouse

The area around Yakushima Lighthouse, located on the western edge of Yakushima Island, is far from human habitation.Very low light pollutionArea.

The night sky viewed from the side of the lighthouse is nearly jet black and is reputed to be an easy place to observe the Milky Way and shooting stars.

Access by rental car is prudent because some sections of the road are narrow.

If you have time and energy to spare, this is a must-visit spot.

Yakushima Lighthouse Details

◆Address: Nagata, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima
◆Access: 53 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport

Yakushima-Yakushima Lighthouse   About Yakushima Lighthouse There is a beautiful cape Nagata on the west side of Nagata village in the northeast of Yakushima Island, and Yakushima Lighthouse with a history of over 100 years stands at the tip of the cape (first lit in 1897). The height to the top of the tower is 19.6 meters and the light is 22 nautical miles [...].

Downtown Yakushima
How to enjoy the nightlife?

It's not just nature!

Yakushima also has local nightlife spots that are unique to the island.

Unique to remote islandscozy atmosphereEnjoy the

Until nightfall on Yakushima
Enjoy Yakushima's popular activities↓

Yakushima Island/Half Day] Awa River River Kayak Tour ☆Abo River Kayak Tour 《1-person〜OK・360-degree camera photo gift》 (No.109)開始時間8:30 / 13:30所要時間Approx. 3.5 hours7,700 yen

Tours Limited] [Shiratani-unsui Gorge, Trekking] Private tour with a forest bathing female guide! One-day plan to visit the most suitable course for each customer in Shiratani-unsui Gorge 《Private and different tour according to your wish》 (No.16)開始時間8:00-17:00所要時間6 to 7 hours12,100 yen

Yakushima/3 hours] Shiratani-unsui Gorge: Leisurely trekking through mossy forests☆Chartered guided tour for ages 4 and up! Half Day Course (No.95)開始時間Morning and afternoon *Consultation required所要時間Approx. 3 hours9,760 yen

Held in Yakushima!
Click here for recommended tour ranking

Popular with young travelers!
Bars and snack bars in Miyanoura area

Miyanoura, the center of Yakushima, is dotted with snack bars and bars where locals gather.

Many stores are easily accessible to tourists at the counter.Shochu from YakushimaIt is a great way to talk to locals while enjoying the

More and more young travelers are stopping by for a snack, and often the interaction with the islanders is one of the most memorable experiences.

Click here for our recommended Mt. Miyanoura trek ↓

Yakushima/Chartered]75 years old people can also join this tour! Popular among mountaineers☆Eco-trekking tour to Kyushu's highest peak "Miyanoura-dake", one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan (No.41)開始時間4:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 10 hours22,000 yen

Yakushima Miyanoura Trekking Tour
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Dining and nightlife spots in the Awa area

Along with Miyanoura, Awa, the main area of Yakushima, also has restaurants and bars where you can stop for the night.

To relieve fatigue after climbing a mountainLocal gourmetMany travelers enjoy the "I'm a tourist," and some stores are open late into the night.

Another advantage of the Awa area is that it is an area with a high concentration of accommodations, making it easy to find stores that are within walking distance of the lodgings.

Recommended in Awa!
Click here for popular Awa River tours↓

Yakushima Island/3 hours] Beginners welcome☆River kayak tour on the Awa River, the No.1 and largest river in Yakushima, a World Natural Heritage site (No.82)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours7,700 yen

Yakushima Island/3 hours] Beginners welcome☆Leisurely SUP tour on the Awa River, the No.1 and largest river in Yakushima, a World Natural Heritage site★Photo free (No.83)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours7,700 yen

Yakushima/3 hours] May-October only! Charter SUP tour in the Awa River with excellent visibility 《6 years old and up, beginners welcome, pick-up and drop-off included》（No.89)開始時間5:00 - 3:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,500 yen

Basic information useful for sightseeing in Yakushima at night

To enjoy the night in Yakushima in comfort,Information you should know in advanceThe following is a summary of the following information.

About Sample Itineraries for Sightseeing on Yakushima ↓

Yakushima Model Itineraries! Recommended Ways to Explore the Island: 1 Night/2 Days, 2 Nights/3 Days, and 3 Nights/4 DaysQ. When should I book a Yakushima tour? A. We recommend booking at least one month before your tour date. Many guides on Yakushima operate with small groups, and according to our website’s booking data for summer 2026, about 70% of reservations made more than one month in advance were confirmed, while 3 […]

Tips for Booking a Night Tour

Since the fees and operating conditions for night tours vary depending on the itinerary and number of participants,Check in advance on each plan's pageLet's do it.

Sea turtle observation tours are available only during the spawning season (May-August), so check the timing before making reservations.

Popular tours often fill up early, so travelUp to 1 to 2 weeks in advanceIt is recommended that you make a reservation at

Transportation and precautions at night

Buses are infrequent on Yakushima and almost never operate at night.

For nighttime travelRental car required.It can be said that

Some mountain roads and seaside roads have few streetlights, so be very careful when driving at night if you are not accustomed to it.

Some accommodations may have a shuttle service, so it is a good idea to check with them.

Items to have with you at night

Enjoy Yakushima at nightIt is useful to have the following items with you to

The forests and coastal areas areDarker than expected underfoot.In many situations, the light from a smartphone alone is not enough to keep you safe.

Headlights are especially recommended because they are convenient to use with both hands.

Don't forget to bring a jacket as the temperature tends to drop at night.

Insect repellant spray is a good idea for outdoor stargazing and night tours.comfortableThe following is a list of the most popular products in the world!

What to Pack for a Trip to Yakushima ↓

7 essential items to bring on your trip to Yakushima! Also suitable clothes for each season!What to wear and what to bring when traveling to Yakushima! Yakushima is known as a southern island, but cold weather prevails in the higher elevation mountainous areas. When trekking, rain gear and other essential equipment is a must. It is also important to be prepared for emergencies. Yakushima [...].

On how to spend the night in Yakushima
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Night tours, stargazing, and local nightlife on Yakushima offer a wealth of ways to enjoy the night.

Spending the night in nature, you can fully experience the charm of Yakushima, which is different from that of the daytime.

By all means, in advance.Book a night tourYou can also rent a car and enjoy the night on Yakushima to the fullest!

↓Click here to read the article.

A Comprehensive Guide to Yakushima’s Charms! 23 Recommended Sightseeing Spots on Yakushima! A Detailed Look at Must-See Attractions, From Classic Favorites to Hidden GemsWhat are the highlights of sightseeing in Yakushima? Introducing recommended spots in Yakushima Yakushima Activities, a website specializing in Yakushima, provides in-depth information on sightseeing and tours in Yakushima based on the latest information provided by local staff. We recommend you to refer to it for your trip planning and tour selection in Yakushima [...].

When is typhoon season in Yakushima? Thorough explanation of the characteristics of typhoons in Yakushima and how to spend the season.Let's know before you travel! What are the characteristics of typhoon season in Yakushima? Yakushima is an island located offshore near Cape Sata on the Oosumi Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture. The island is rich in nature, known for its Jomon cedars and Shiratani Unsui Gorge, and was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 1993 [...].

Introducing sightseeing spots and activity tours that you should not miss on your trip to Yakushima!A must-see for those traveling to the World Heritage Site of Yakushima! A thorough explanation of recommended tours and sightseeing spots Yakushima Island, registered as a World Heritage Site, is an attractive sightseeing spot with abundant nature and full of activities. In this issue, we will introduce the recommended tours in the World Heritage Site "Yakushima" and the places to visit that you must [...]...