The East China Sea Observation Deck and 5 Recommended Scenic Drive Spots in Northern Yakushima
What can you see from the East China Sea Observation Deck?
A.
In front ofKuchinoerabu IslandYou can see [...], and on clear days, you can even spot Kuroshima, Iwo Jima, and Takeshima. The view of the East China Sea stretching all the way to the horizon is a major attraction, making this the perfect spot to take a break during a drive.
At the East China Sea Observation Deck
Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Yakushima
The East China Sea Observation Deck is located along the prefectural road between Ichiminato and Yoshida in northern Yakushima,A panoramic view of the oceanIt's a great observation deck.
On a sunny day,Kuchinoerabu IslandOf course, one of the main attractions is the view that stretches all the way to Kuroshima, Iwo Jima, and Takeshima.
In this article, we’ll introduce five must-see scenic spots to visit along with the observation deck, as well as how to get there and tips for driving!
◆For those who want to know in advance how to get to the East China Sea Observation Deck, where to park, and which islands are visible from there
◆For those who want to visit Nagata Beach, Nagata Inaka Beach, the Yakushima Lighthouse, and other sites
◆For those who are nervous about driving and would like to enjoy Yakushima’s breathtaking scenery on a guided tour
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Yakushima.
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended Yakushima tours▼
Northern to Western Yakushima
5 Recommended Scenic Drive Spots
If you drive from the observation deck through the Nagata area to the Western Forest Road, you can fully experience Yakushima’s ocean and nature.
Let me introduce five spots you’ll want to stop at during your drive, in order. Feel free to add the ones that catch your eye to your route!
If you want to explore without driving, this is the way to go!
▼Click here for recommended Yakushima tours▼
East China Sea Observation Deck
Located along the prefectural road from Ichikuchi to Yoshida, this is a popular rest stop for drivers in northern Yakushima. The East China Sea stretches out before you, and Kuchinoerabu Island is visible straight ahead.
On a clear day, you can even see Kuroshima, Iwo Jima, and Takeshima. It’s a view that really brings home the fact that Yakushima is an island surrounded by the ocean.
Although it's a small observation deck, it's equipped with a gazebo, benches, and parking spaces. Next to the information board are three cuteStone Statue of a Sea TurtleThere are also many reviews saying that this is the case.
Since it’s located along the route from Miyanoura Port to Nagata Beach, it’s nice that you can easily stop by on your way. Why not make a stop here during your drive around Yakushima?
◆Directions: Along the prefectural road between Ichiminato and Yoshida
Nagata Beach
Nagata Beach is,Number One in JapanThis is Yakushima’s largest sandy beach, where loggerhead sea turtles come ashore. The white sandy beach stretches for about 800 meters.
It is registered as a Ramsar Site, and offers a view of Kuchinoerabu Island, which lies in the East China Sea.May through JulyThis is the season when you can see sea turtles laying eggs, and there are even observation events held.
However, access to the beach is restricted during the nesting and hatching seasons, as well as at night. Please check the rules before visiting and make sure to practice sea-turtle-friendly tourism!
Since high waves can occur in winter, be sure to keep an eye on the wave conditions. If you’d like to enjoy Yakushima’s natural beauty with a guide, be sure to check out our tours.
Click here for Yakushima tours
◆Opening Hours: Access to the beach is restricted during the spawning and hatching season (May 1–August 31) and at night (7:30 p.m.–5:00 a.m. the following day)
Nagata Inaka Beach
Nagata Inakahama is a beautiful beach covered in white sand made of weathered granite. It’s a place rich in nature where sea turtles migrating across the Pacific Ocean come to lay their eggs.
Since it is located on the western side of the island,A Beach with a Beautiful SunsetIt is also known as . On Yakushima, where it rains frequently, there aren’t many opportunities to see the sunset.
Even so, the sunset—which sets to the right of Kuchinoerabu Island in the summer and to the left in the winter—is a breathtaking sight. It’s also lovely to just relax and listen to the sound of the waves during sunset.
There is a parking lot, and if you're taking the local bus, it's right next to the Inaka-hama bus stop—about a 30-minute ride from Miyanoura Port. Since it's also close to the observation deck, it's easy to include it in a road trip.
◆Directions: Take the Tanegashima-Yakushima Kotsu bus bound for Nagata from Miyanoura Port (about 30 minutes); get off at Inakahama Bus Stop—it’s right there. / Parking available (10 spaces)
Yakushima Lighthouse (Cape Nagata)
The Yakushima Lighthouse is a white lighthouse located on Cape Nagata, which juts out to the west of the Nagata settlement. Standing at the very tip of the cape facing the East China Sea, it’s a sight to behold as it stands out against the blue sea and sky.
This historic lighthouse, which was first lit in Meiji 30, is a nationalRegistered Tangible Cultural PropertyIt is designated as such. It also has a history as one of the lighthouses built to safeguard the Taiwan shipping route.
I’ve heard it’s the southernmost surviving lighthouse from the Meiji period. The stretch of water between it and Kuchinoerabu Island, visible across the way, is a shipping lane where large ships come and go.
There's a parking lot, so it's easy to stop by even if you're just out for a drive. Since access to the inside of the lighthouse seems to be limited, let's start by enjoying the view from the cape and the lighthouse's exterior!
◆Directions: About 45 km by car from Awa Port / Parking available (5 spaces)
Okawa Falls
The Okawa Falls are,88m dropThis is one of Yakushima’s most magnificent waterfalls. Because rainwater on Yakushima flows rapidly down the bedrock, the waterfall is said to be even more impressive immediately after it rains.
When you see the waterfall up close, you can really appreciate the sheer scale of Yakushima’s natural landscape. The Western Forest Road leading to the waterfall is a rare driving route that takes you through the World Heritage-listed virgin forest.
Let's take a leisurely look out the car window at the scenery stretching from the coast to the mountains. Please drive carefully, as the road is narrow and has many winding sections.
It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port, so be sure to leave plenty of time! We also recommend combining this with other attractions and spending the whole day exploring.
Click here for Yakushima tours
◆Directions: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
To the East China Sea Observation Deck
Directions and How to Stop By
The East China Sea Observation Deck is located along the route from Miyanoura Port toward Nagata.
It’s an easy place to stop by, but it’s reassuring to know how to get there and what facilities are available beforehand. Here, we’ve put together a summary of how to get there and the islands you can see!
If you're worried about getting around, this is the one!
▼Click here for recommended Yakushima tours▼
Directions from Miyanoura and Travel Time
The East China Sea Viewpoint is located along the prefectural road leading from Ichikuchi to Yoshida. It’s a classic stop along the route from Miyanoura Port toward Nagata Beach.
According to reviews, by car from Miyanoura PortAbout 20 minutesWe often see comments like this. Look for the sea turtle monument near the gazebos along the road or next to the signs at the observation decks.
It's a small overlook with space for just a few cars, so be sure not to miss it. If you're planning a drive around the island, it's easiest to base your itinerary around this route.
Travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions, so please plan your schedule with plenty of time to spare. If you're renting a car or taking a tour, it's convenient because you can pop in whenever the mood strikes.
Parking and Facilities Overview
There is space to park a few cars at the observation deck.Parking spaceThere are some. With gazebos and benches available, it's the perfect spot to take a break during a drive.
On the other hand,There is no restroom.There are reviews that say this. It’s a good idea to take care of that in the Miyanoura area or elsewhere before stopping by.
Since this is a lookout point located along the road, please watch out for passing cars when entering or exiting. Parking space is limited, so please be considerate of others and take turns if there are people waiting!
If you want to take your time enjoying the scenery, visiting at a different time of day is one option. Be sure to take your trash with you so we can keep the area clean.
The Islands Visible from the Observation Deck
The islands visible from the observation deck are Kuchinoerabu Island directly ahead, and on clear days, Kurojima, Iojima, and Takeshima. The entire island of Kuchinoerabu is designated as a national park.
It seems that Kuroshima, Iwo Jima, and Takeshima can be difficult to see on some days, depending on the weather and sky conditions. Some people describe Iwo Jima as having the shape of a typical volcanic island, while Takeshima is said to resemble a fish lying on its side.
There are information signs here, so take a look while checking the names of the islands. Searching for the silhouettes of islands on the horizon is another unique pleasure of visiting this observation deck.
Even on cloudy days, the view of the blue ocean and coral reefs is well worth seeing. Be sure to check the weather before you go and plan your visit for a break in the clouds!
Tips for Enjoying a Scenic Drive on Yakushima
Your drive on Yakushima will be more enjoyable if you know the best times of day, what to wear, and the road conditions.
If you're nervous about driving, you can always opt for a tour. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your drive to the fullest!
If you want to have fun without any worries, this is the one!
▼Click here for recommended Yakushima tours▼
Recommended Times and Seasons
If you want to see all the way to the islands, the air is clearDuring the day on a sunny dayI recommend this. You'll be able to see the horizon clearly, and it'll be easier to spot Kuroshima and Iwo Jima.
It feels great to gaze out at the ocean in the crisp morning air. If you’re looking to capture the sunset, Nagata Inakahama—known as a famous spot for sunsets—is a safe bet.
Some reviews mention that the information board at the observation deck highlights the beauty of the sunset. If you’re planning a visit based on the season, keep in mind that from around May through July is the time when you can see sea turtles laying eggs at Nagata Beach.
The weather on Yakushima, where it rains frequently, can change quickly, so be sure to check the forecast often! It gets dark early around sunset, so please allow plenty of time for your drive home.
Clothing, Personal Belongings, and Driving Precautions
Since it can get windy at the seaside observation deck, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket. Be sure to bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun, sunscreen, and something to drink.
It’s a good idea to bring rain gear and comfortable walking shoes just in case of a sudden downpour. You’ll want to keep your smartphone and camera within easy reach so you can use them right away when you find a scenic spot.
Please drive carefully on the Western Forest Road, as it is narrow and has many winding sections. There are many gas stations in Miyanoura and Awa, but fewer on the western side of the island.
Fill up before leavingIf you keep it this way, you can enjoy your drive with peace of mind! Since wild animals sometimes wander onto the road, be sure to drive slowly.
If you're nervous about driving, a tour is also an option.
If you're nervous about driving on unfamiliar island roads, you can always take a tour. With a guide,No need to worry about driving,...and you can also hear explanations about the scenery and nature.
Even on narrow roads like the Nishi Forest Road, you can relax and focus on the scenery. There are plenty of other experiences that let you fully enjoy Yakushima’s natural beauty.
Why not choose the tour that best suits your schedule and preferences?
Click here for Yakushima tours
If you're interested, be sure to check out the list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the East China Sea Observation Deck
According to reviews, there are no restrooms at the observation deck. There is a parking area that can accommodate a few cars, as well as a gazebo and benches. It’s a good idea to use the restroom in the Miyanoura area or nearby before stopping by.
There are reviews saying that the information board at the observation deck highlights the beauty of the sunset. However, since Yakushima gets a lot of rain, it really depends on the weather. If you’re hoping to catch a great sunset, be sure to also check out Nagata Inakahama, which is known as a famous spot for sunsets.
If you take a guided tour, you can enjoy Yakushima’s breathtaking scenery without having to drive. Even if you’re driving a rental car, please be careful of oncoming traffic when entering or exiting these small overlooks along the road.
summary
The East China Sea Observation Deck is a scenic spot in northern Yakushima that offers views of the East China Sea, Kuchinoerabu Island, and—on clear days—Kurojima, Iojima, and Takeshima.
It’s a view that really makes you appreciate the charm of Yakushima, surrounded by the ocean.
Combine these with Nagata Beach, Nagata Inaka Beach, the Yakushima Lighthouse, and Okawa Falls, and you’ll have a truly satisfying drive. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions, andPlenty of timeLet's head out with that!
If you're nervous about driving, why not join a tour and enjoy Yakushima's breathtaking scenery with peace of mind?
▼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)
