Top 5 Recommended Eco-Tours on Yakushima! Popular Routes to Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo
Where should you go first for an eco-tour on Yakushima?
A.
The classic choice is the Jomon Sugi, but if it’s your first time, you’ll find a vast, moss-covered forestShiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)It’s easy to walk and highly recommended. If you’re confident in your stamina, choose the Jomon Sugi trail; if you prefer a more leisurely pace, go for Yakusugi Land!
What You'll Encounter on a Yakushima Eco-Tour
Nature and Tips for Choosing
Yakushima Eco Tours includes attractions such as the Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, among othersworld natural heritage siteThis is a popular activity where you can walk through the forest while listening to the guide's commentary.
In addition to our top 5 recommended courses, we’ll explain everything from how to choose a course to the time required, what to wear, and the best season to visit. Even if you’re a first-timer, reading this will help you find the course that’s right for you!
◆For those who can't decide between the Jomon Sugi and Shiratani Unsuikyo
◆For those looking for tours that are suitable for beginners and families with children
◆For those who want to check the duration, recommended attire, what to bring, and the best season in advance
Yakushima Eco Tours'
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Top 5 Recommended Eco-Tours on Yakushima Island
Here, we’ll introduce eco-tours that let you fully enjoy the nature of Yakushima, focusing on five of the most iconic spots.
From Yakusugi cedars to mossy forests, wildlife, and sea turtles—there are so many different highlights to see. Why not start by reading about the ones that interest you most?
Travel with a guide for peace of mind☆
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Jomon Cedar Trekking
The symbol of Yakushima is the Jomon Sugi, a cedar tree estimated to be 7,200 years old. The round-trip hike from the Arakawa trailhead to the Jomon Sugi is over 20 km,9 hours or moreIt's quite a long course.
We’ll walk along the mine car track and climb the Oka-boku Trail while admiring the Wilson Tree and the Husband-and-Wife Cedars.
It does require some physical stamina, but with a guide’s commentary, you’ll learn about the history of the Yakusugi cedars, and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top is truly special!
The Mountaineering Club encourages the use of portable toilets. If you're on a tour, you'll be shown how to use them in advance, which is reassuring.
◆Directions: Transfer to the Arakawa Hiking Bus at the Yakusugi Nature Center, then walk from the Arakawa trailhead to Jomon Sugi.
Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)
Shiratani Unsuikyo, known for its moss-covered forests, is a natural recreational forest stretching across an elevation of about 600 to 1,000 meters. It is said to have served as the inspiration for the setting of the movie *Princess Mononoke*, and the expanse of moss and mountain streams creates a truly magical atmosphere.
There are three hiking trails of varying lengths, and you can even find half-day tours that take you to the moss-covered forest.
If you have time, you can take in the view of the mountains of Yakushimaark (i.e. formed by striking a rock with a glacier on top)Let's take a trip there! On rainy days, the green of the moss looks even more vivid, so taking a walk in the rain—wearing your rain gear—is one of the unique pleasures of Shiraya Unsui Gorge.
◆Hours: The administration building is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Open daily)
◆Directions: About a 25-minute drive from Miyanoura Port (get off at the last stop on the local bus; service may be suspended during the winter)
Yakusugiland
Yakusugi Land is a natural recreational forest stretching across an elevation of approximately 1,000 to 1,300 meters, where visitors can easily stroll through a forest of Yakusugi cedars that are thousands of years old. There are four nature trails, including one featuring a 1,800-year-oldred cedar (thuja plicata)You'll come across large trees like these.
Since you can walk alongside a clear stream and enjoy the forest air, this is perfect even for those who can’t walk as far as the Jomon Sugi trail. Another appealing aspect is that your guide will explain how the Yakusugi forest renews itself through processes like fallen trees and regeneration.
◆Hours: The administration building is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Please inquire regarding entry outside these hours.)
◆Directions: Take a series of local buses from Miyanoura Port and get off at Yakusugi Land (parking available)
Western Evergreen Forest (Western Forest Road)
The western region, which stretches along the western side of the island, is home to one of Japan’s largest remaining areas of evergreen broadleaf forest. It is the only place where a road runs through a World Heritage site, and is commonly known as “Western Forest Road"..." is what it's called.
Along the path through the green tunnel, you can spot Yakusaru monkeys and Yakushika deer, as well as huge banyan and akou trees.
The area is dotted with the remains of dwellings and charcoal kilns that were in use until the Showa 40s, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of daily life and nature.
The rules are to keep a distance of at least 10 meters from wild animals and never feed them. It’s safer when you’re with a guide!
◆Access: The Seibu Forest Road is narrow and has many curves, so you must drive slowly.
Sea Turtle Watching at Nagata Beach
Nagata Beach is the largest in the North Pacific...loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)It is a breeding ground and is also designated as a Ramsar Site.
To protect sea turtles, there is a rule in place from May through September prohibiting access to the beach at night. During the nesting season, the general rule is to observe the turtles by participating in observation tours, which require advance reservations.
Shining lights or walking around on the beach can have a negative impact, so please follow the rules when observing!
Since the dates and booking procedures vary from year to year, please be sure to check the latest information when choosing a tour.
◆Hours: The beach is open during the day (Please refrain from visiting at night—from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM the following morning—from May 1 through September 30).
How to Choose a Yakushima Eco-Tour
On Yakushima Eco Tours, the walking distance and scenery vary greatly depending on the course.
Choose the option that’s right for you based on these three factors: physical stamina, support, and travel companions. Let me walk you through the tips for choosing, step by step!
Find the Course That's Right for You☆
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Choose Based on Your Stamina and Schedule
The most important thing is to...Physical Stamina and Length of StayIt's about choosing a course that suits you.
Since the round-trip hike to the Jomon Sugi takes more than 9 hours, you’ll need to be in good physical condition. Depending on the tour, you may also need to arrive on Yakushima by the day before.
For those who aren't confident in their stamina, or who would like to participate on the day of arrival or the last day of their trip, the Mossy Forest Course at Shiratani Unsuikyo—which can be completed in half a day—is a good choice.
Yakusugi Land has some shorter hiking trails, so you can enjoy it even if you don’t have much time. If you have two or more days, I recommend combining a visit to the Jomon Sugi with a trip to Shiratani Unsuikyo.
Choose by guided tours and shuttle service
Yakushima Island hasGuide Registration SystemThere are guided tours led by local guides who know the area well. Since many of the trails, such as the one to the Jomon Sugi, require an early morning start, having transportation to and from your lodging makes getting around much easier.
Since private vehicles are restricted from entering the Arakawa trailhead, a shuttle service makes the trip more convenient and hassle-free.
Some tours offer small-group private tours or packages designed for solo travelers. Compare the pickup and drop-off areas and whether equipment rentals are available, then choose the tour that interests you.
Click here for a list of Yakushima eco-tours
For Families with Children and Beginners
If this is your first eco-tour on Yakushima, we recommend starting with a course that involves less walking. You can find tours suitable for beginners in the moss-covered forests of Shiratani Unsuikyo and at Yakusugi Land.
While some Jomon Sugi trekking tours have no age restrictions, the age requirements vary by tour.
Ages 3 and upThere are family-friendly hikes suitable for all ages, so be sure to choose one that matches your children’s age and fitness level. It’s a good idea to carefully review the participation requirements before making a reservation.
Yakushima Eco-Tour: Duration, Clothing, and What to Bring
On Yakushima, eco-tours often involve heading into the mountains early in the morning, and how comfortable the experience is depends largely on how well you prepare.
Be sure to check the estimated duration, recommended attire, and what to bring. Rain gear and comfortable walking shoes are a must!
Leave the preparations to us—it's stress-free!☆
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Approximate time required
The time required varies greatly depending on your destination. For the Jomon Sugi, just walking there takes10 to 11 hoursSome tours take that long, and when you include the round-trip transportation from the inn, they can last more than 12 hours.
The Shiratani Unsuikyo trail takes about 4 to 5 hours for the half-day course to the moss-covered forest. There is also a full-day course that takes you deep into the mountains.
Yakusugi Land offers a walking tour along a roughly 3-kilometer trail, where you can take a leisurely stroll while listening to the guide's commentary.
Since the sea turtle observation event at Nagata Beach takes place at night, be sure to leave plenty of time in your schedule for the next day.
Clothing and Belongings Checklist
The key to dressing right is to wear clothes that dry quickly even when you sweat.Quick-dryingThis is the clothing.
Shoes areWater resistanceWe recommend trekking shoes with [feature]. Since it rains often on Yakushima, be sure to bring a two-piece rain suit that allows for easy movement.
In addition to a small backpack, it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle, snacks, and a waterproof bag (a plastic bag is fine, too).
During cold weather, warm clothing and gloves are essential, and a headlamp can be helpful if you're setting out early in the morning. Some tours offer rentals of rain gear, shoes, and backpacks, so be sure to check before you book.
The Best Season for Eco-Tours on Yakushima
Yakushima is a great place to visit year-round, but the forests and the ocean take on different appearances with each season.
Here, I’ll introduce some recommended ways to enjoy the season, divided into spring/summer and fall/winter.
Choose something that fits the season☆
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Yakushima/Half-day Charter] July to September only!開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間3 hours12,100 yen
Spring and Summer Recommendations
Spring is the season of fresh greenery, and at Shiratani Unsuikyo, Satsuki azaleas and cherry azaleas bloom, bringing the forest to life.From May through JulyThe sea turtle nesting season is now underway at Nagata Beach.
Since the sun starts to rise around the time you set out in the summer, the Jomon Sugi hike—which starts early in the morning—is quite easy to manage.
However, since temperatures tend to be cooler in high-altitude areas even in summer, be sure to bring a light jacket. On Yakushima, where it rains frequently, the moss-covered forests on rainy days are a major attraction.
Fall and Winter Recommendations
Fall at Yakusugi LandLate OctoberAround mid-November, the fall foliage reaches its peak. While the entire area doesn’t turn completely red, you can enjoy the fall colors of plants like mountain ash growing on the Yakusugi cedars.
In winter, the air is crisp, and in the mountains,HoarfrostYou might even see it. Since sunrise is late, there are tours on the Jomon Sugi Route where you can watch the sunrise near the end of the trolley track.
Don't forget your winter gear and gloves. Since the bus schedule to the Arakawa trailhead varies from year to year, it's especially important to check in advance during the winter.
Click here for a list of Yakushima eco-tours
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Yakushima Eco-Tours
While it varies by tour, tours may proceed even in light rain, but they may be canceled if the guide deems conditions unsafe. Since it rains frequently on Yakushima, be sure to bring rain gear and check the tour conditions before making a reservation.
Even beginners can give it a try, but since the round trip takes more than 9 hours, you’ll need to be in good physical shape. If you’re unsure, we recommend starting with shorter hikes, such as Shiratani Unsuikyo or Yakusugi Land.
During the spawning season, you are generally required to participate in observation sessions by advance reservation. There is a rule prohibiting access to the beach at night from May through September, and since the schedule and reservation procedures vary from year to year, please check for the latest information.
summary
On a Yakushima eco-tour, the experience varies greatly depending on the destination—whether it’s the Jomon Sugi, Shiratani Unsuikyo, Yakusugi Land, the Western Broadleaf Forest, or Nagata Beach.
If you're confident in your stamina, the Jomon Sugi is a good choice; if it's your first time, the Mossy Forest or Yakusugi Land are easier options.
Check the estimated time, what to wear, and the season, and then,GuidedSo come enjoy Yakushima’s natural beauty safely! Be sure to find the eco-tour that’s just right for you.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
![[Yakushima · Private Tour] Led by a Female Guide! A Relaxing One-Day Forest Tour to Recharge Among Moss and Yakusugi Cedars](https://yakushima-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/a0e0857e7f1ee70e49fee427cac12402-825x510.jpg)
