Yakushima Sightseeing Guide! 18 recommended sightseeing spots in Yakushima! Thorough explanation of the highlights from classic to hidden spots!
Table of Contents
- 1 What are the highlights of sightseeing in Yakushima? Introducing the best places to visit in Yakushima
- 2 What kind of place is Yakushima?
- 3 Full of charm of Yakushima!
18 Recommended Sightseeing Spots
- 3.1 Jomon Cedar (Jomon Sugi) Yakusugi cedar, one of the oldest in the world, 7200 years old
- 3.2 Shiratani Unsui Gorge The mossy forest where Princess Mononoke was set
- 3.3 Wilson Stocks Heart-shaped power spot
- 3.4 Yakusugiland Nature park where you can easily enjoy Yakusugi cedars
- 3.5 Ichiminato Beach (Isso) Snorkeling at the beach with excellent transparency
- 3.6 Nagata Inaka Beach Beach famous as a spawning ground for sea turtles
- 3.7 Western Forest Road (Seiburi Rindo) Driving course to encounter wild animals
- 3.8 Senpiro Falls Contrast between the huge granite and the waterfall
- 3.9 Okawa Falls (Okonotaki) Famous waterfall selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan
- 3.10 Awa River (Anbo River) Enjoy the beautiful river with excellent transparency
- 3.11 Yakusugi Nature Center Learn about the history and fascination of Yakusugi cedar
- 3.12 Onoma Onsen (Onoda) Healing hot spring resort blending with nature
- 3.13 Hirauchi Underwater Hot Spring Natural open-air bath available only at low tide
- 3.14 Miyanoura-dake The most spectacular view from Kyushu's highest mountain
- 3.15 Taikoiwa (Taiko Rock) A view from the powerful granite
- 3.16 Toloki Waterfall Unusual waterfall flowing down to the sea
- 3.17 Yakushima Lighthouse Historic lighthouse that watches over the island
- 3.18 Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center Introducing the island's nature and culture
- 3.19 Intermediate Banyan Tree (Nakama) Looking up at the huge banyan tree
- 4 How long does it take to go around Yakushima?
- 5 About Yakushima Sightseeing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 6 summary
What are the highlights of sightseeing in Yakushima?
Introducing the best spots in Yakushima
Yakushima Activities, a website specializing in Yakushima, provides thorough explanations of Yakushima sightseeing and tour information based on the latest information provided by local staff. It is recommended as a reference when planning your trip to Yakushima and selecting tours.
Yakushima Island, Japan's first island to be registered as a World Natural Heritage site, is an island of mystery where ancient nature comes alive. Yakushima is a mysterious island where ancient nature comes alive. Yakusugi cedar trees over 1,000 years old, the emerald green sea, mysterious waterfalls and rivers, and more,Plenty of sights to attract visitorsIt is.
In this article,18 recommended Yakushima sightseeing spots you must visitWe will introduce you to the following We will also explain in detail how to get there, the best season to visit, and the highlights of each spot.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, enjoy all that Yakushima has to offer with this preserved guide!
◆If you want to know about the best spots in Yakushima
◆If you want to know the recommended sightseeing spots in Yakushima
◆If you are wondering about the best season for sightseeing in Yakushima
Click here for a list of popular activities in Yakushima
What kind of place is Yakushima?
Yakushima is an island rich in nature located in Kagoshima Prefecture, and was established in 1993.Japan's first UNESCO World Natural Heritage Siteregistered in the
The island is valued for its diverse ecosystems due to the difference in elevation and the unique landscape created by the Yakusugi cedars. The entire island is surrounded by untouched nature and is called "the greatest treasure of mankind.
Warm and rainy climate
Yakushima's average annual temperature is about 20°C, which is mild compared to Tokyo's average annual temperature of about 15°C. However, snow falls in the mountainous areas.Large temperature differences depending on elevationIt is.
In addition, the mountains cool the moist, warm air from the Kuroshio Current, resulting in an annual precipitation of about 4,500 millimeters.Japan's wettest regionRemember to be prepared as you will need rain gear all year round.
For more information about what to wear in Yakushima, click here↓.
How to get to Yakushima
Yakushima Island can be accessed by air or by boat.
For airplanesDirect flights from Itami (Osaka), Fukuoka, Kagoshimais out.
For boats, there are about 1-6 services a day from Kagoshima Honkou Minami Wharf to Miyaura Port or Awa Port, and from Taniyama Port to Miyaura Port.
If travel time is a priority, flying is recommended; if you want to go cheaply, high-speed boats and ferries are recommended.
From Haneda Airport: Connect at Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport (about 3 hours total)
From Itami Airport or Fukuoka Airport: Take a direct flight to Yakushima Airport (about 1 to 2 hours)
From Kagoshima Airport: Direct flight to Yakushima Airport (about 40 minutes)
Access by ◆Boat
From Kagoshima Airport to the main port: 1 hour by bus
From Kagoshima Main Port Minami Wharf/Taniyama Port: 2 to 3 hours by high-speed boat, 4 hours by ferry
For more information on how to get to Yakushima, click here↓.
The charm of Yakushima☆Mysterious giant trees thousands of years old
A Surprisingly Unknown Sanctuary for Marine Leisure
The symbol of Yakushima is the giant Yakusugi cedar tree, Jomon cedar, which is estimated to be over 7,000 years old.
The majestic figure of the mountain, which rises 1,300 meters above sea level, attracts many people,One of the most powerful spots in JapanIt is known as the
For more information about Yakusugi, click here↓.
また屋久島観光は「山」のイメージが強いかもしれませんが、透明度の高い「海」も大きな魅力です。黒潮の恩恵で多様な海洋生物が生息し、Famous as a spawning ground for sea turtlesIt is.
Marine activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and SUP can also be enjoyed.
Click here for more information about activities you can enjoy in Yakushima.
When is the best season?
Recommended time to visit Yakushima
The best time to visit Yakushima is from March to May and July to October.
From mid-March to April, yamazakura (mountain cherry trees) bloom and the mountainsides turn cherry blossom-colored. During the Shiratani Unsui Gorge trekking, cherry azaleas, and from late MayYakushima's endemic Yakushima rhododendronYou will also be able to see The scenery is as beautiful as a paradise.
If you want to enjoy playing in the water, July through September is recommended. You can enjoy snorkeling and playing in the clear rivers and seas.
In September and October, the crowds are calmer and the weather is a little cooler than during GW and summer vacation, so you can relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
For more information about the best season in Yakushima, click here↓.
Full of charm of Yakushima!
18 recommended sightseeing spots
So far, we have introduced the features of Yakushima Island as a whole and described its attractions.
You may be wondering where you can enjoy Yakushima to the fullest.
We will now introduce some spots where you can experience the charms of Yakushima to the fullest, so please refer to them in your travel plans!
Visit Yakushima's sightseeing spots
Jomon cedar
Yakusugi cedar, one of the oldest in the world, 7200 years old
Jomon cedars are a symbol of Yakushima,The world's oldest Yakusugi cedar tree, said to be 7,200 years oldIt is.
It is located almost in the center of Yakushima, in the mountains at an altitude of 1,300 meters.
It is a 22-km round-trip trek from the Arakawa trailhead, taking about 10 hours, but the overwhelming presence of the mountain attracts visitors.
The Jomon cedar tree is 25.3 meters high and 16.4 meters in circumference, and is simply breathtaking to behold.
To get to Jomon Cedars, sign up for a trekking tour!
Access: 30 minutes by car from Yakusugi Nature Center to the trailhead, then 10 hours of trekking round trip.
For more information about Jomon Cedars, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours to Jomon Cedars
Shiratani Unsui Gorge
The moss forest where Princess Mononoke was set
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is,The setting for Studio Ghibli's film "Princess MononokeIt is said to be a famous spot.
The moss forest that spreads all over the area is surrounded by a fantastic atmosphere, inviting visitors to enter a different world.
Hakutani Unsui Gorge offers trekking tours that can be enjoyed in about four hours,Easy to visit even for beginnersので、屋久島観光の人気スポットになっています。
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
For more information about Shiratani-unsui Gorge, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours of Shiratani-Unsui Gorge.
Wilson stock
Heart-shaped power spot
Wilson Stump is a giant 3000-year-old Yakusugi cedar tree stump located on the trekking route to Jomon Cedar.
It is called Wilson's stock because Wilson, an American botanist, came to Yakusugi in the Taisho era (1912-1926) to study it and publicized the existence of this stock to the world.
This is because it looks heart-shaped when you go inside and look up,Power spot for love fulfillmentIt is gaining popularity as a
Access: Halfway along the Jomon-sugi trekking route (about a 3-hour walk from the Arakawa trailhead)
Learn more about Wilson shares here↓.
Click here for recommended tours including Wilson Stocks
Yakusugiland
Nature park where you can easily enjoy Yakusugi cedars
Yakusugiland is a nature park where beginners and families can easily enjoy Yakusugi cedars.Various walks from 30 minutes to 3 hoursare available, and you can choose the one that best suits your fitness and time.
Walking along the well-maintained boardwalk, visitors can feel the rich ecosystem and powerful Yakusugi cedars up close.
Also, if you go about 6 km further in Yakusugiland, you can admire a 3,000-year-old Yakusugi cedar tree called Kigen-sugi, so it would be a good idea to extend your visit a bit.
子連れでも楽しめる屋久島観光スポットÂ
Access: 1 hour by car from Miyanoura Port
For more information about Yakusugiland, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours to Yakusugiland.
Ichinato Beach (Isso)
Snorkeling at the beach with excellent transparency
Ichiminato Beach is an attractive beach with clear waters,Great spot for snorkeling and diving.It is.
Visitors can observe colorful tropical fish and coral reefs up close, and enjoy marine activities for beginners and experts alike.
With showers and changing rooms available, the beach is crowded with bathers from July to August, and is popular with families.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
For more information about Ichiminato Beach, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours including Ichiminato Beach.↓arrow (mark or symbol)
Nagata Inaka Beach
Beach famous as a spawning ground for sea turtles
Nagata Inaka Beach is a beautiful beach known as the best sea turtle spawning ground in Japan. from May to August,Sea turtles visiting to lay eggscan be observed.
When you reach the beach, you can see Kuchino-erabu Island in the distance.
Experience the precious nature of this place with its white sandy beaches and emerald green sea.
Access: 40 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Western Forest Road (Seiburi Rindo)
Driving course to encounter wild animals
The Western Forest Road is a drive through the World Heritage Area,You can see yak monkeys and yak deer in the wild.It is famous for its
You can observe animals in their natural habitat from the window of the car and enjoy a safari-like experience.
Access: 41 minutes by car from Miyanoura to the western forest road entrance on the Nagata side
47 minutes by car from Awa to the western forest road entrance on the Kurio side
For more information about the Western Forest Road, click here↓.
Click here for the Western Forest Road Walking Trail.
Senpiro Falls
Contrast between the huge granite and the waterfall
Senjin Falls is a spectacular waterfall with a drop of 60 meters, and the contrast between the huge granite monolith and the waterfall is a beautiful spot. From the observatory, you can see the entire waterfall and be overwhelmed by its power.
It is easily accessible and quick to stop by, making it easy to incorporate into a sightseeing course!
Access: 35 minutes by car from Awa Port
Ookawa Falls (Ookonotaki)
Famous waterfall selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan
Okawa Falls, with a drop of 88 meters, is the largest waterfall on Yakushima Island and has been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan.
The most important point of Okawa Falls is,You can walk right up to the waterfall basin.This is to say. You can experience the power and splash of the water up close and personal.
Refresh yourself in an environment full of negative ions.
Access: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Awa River
Enjoy the beautiful river with excellent transparency
The Awa River flows through the center of Yakushima.The river is so clear that you can see the bottom of the river!The gentle currents allow for river kayaking and SUP.
It is a popular activity spot for families and couples, as it is beginner-friendly.â
It is recommended to spend a relaxing time in nature.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
For more information about the Awa River, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours in Awa River.
Yakusugi Nature Center
Learn about the history and charm of Yakusugi cedar
Yakusugi Nature Center is a facility where visitors can learn the secrets, history, and cultural value of Yakusugi cedar.
The museum has an extensive display of giant Yakusugi cedar stumps and annual rings, as well as video materials, and is recommended for pre-trekking preparation.
A deeper understanding of Yakusugi cedar will make the actual forest walk more inspiring.
Access: 35 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Admission: Adults 600 yen, High school/University students 400 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 300 yen
Onoma Onsen (Onoda)
A healing hot spring resort that blends with nature
Onoma Onsen is a hot spring loved by the locals of Yakushima. Since the source is used as it is, the water is hot at about 43°C.
Footbath availableSo, it is recommended to refresh your body after a long day of trekking!
Access: 50 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Fee: 300 yen
Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen
Natural open-air bath available only at low tide
Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen is a natural open-air bath that appears only for two hours at low tide. Because it is located almost at the same level as the ocean, visitors can enjoy the magical sensation of being one with the ocean.
Mixed bathing hot springs where swimsuits are not allowed. You can enjoy the open atmosphere, but please use it with good manners.
Access: 5 min. walk from bus stop Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen
Parking: Available
Fee: 200 yen as a cooperation fee
Nearby tourist attractions: 30 minutes drive to Okawa Falls, 35 minutes drive to Seibu Forest Road.
Learn more about the hot springs of Yakushima
Miyanoura-dake
The most spectacular view from the highest mountain in Kyushu
Miyanoura-dake is located almost in the center of Yakushima,Kyushu's highest mountain at 1936 meters above sea levelIt is also known as the "Oceanic Alps. The two names of the mountain, "The Oceanic Alps," are also used to describe its gently sloping peaks.
This is a serious mountain climbing course for advanced climbers, requiring physical strength and experience, but the view from the top is exceptional.
At the summit, the panoramic view is so large that you can see as far as the Osumi Peninsula on the Kagoshima mainland and the neighboring islands of Tanegashima and Kuchino-erabu, when the weather is good.
Access: Start climbing from Yodogawa trailhead (about 1 hour by car from Miyanoura Port)
For more information about Miyanoura-dake, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours to Mt.
Taikoiwa
View from the powerful granite
Further on through the mossy forests of Shiratani-unsui Gorge, you will see a granite monolith called "Taikoiwa.
Jutting out from the mountainsideThe view from Taikoiwa is truly spectacular!You can enjoy a panoramic view of the forests of Yakushima Island below.
Access: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
For more information about Taikoiwa, click here↓.
Click here for recommended tours to Taikoiwa
Toloki Falls
Unusual waterfall flowing down to the sea
Toloki Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the world where river water cascades directly into the sea. It is small, at only 6 meters high, but the view of the ocean and the waterfalls combined can only be seen here.
Combined with the surrounding scenery surrounded by subtropical plants, visitors can enjoy a unique tropical mood.
Access: 25 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Yakushima Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse watching over the island
Yakushima Lighthouse is located on the west coast of Yakushima and serves as a watch over the island's beautiful ocean. The lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, especially at sunset.
Established in 1897Therefore, the lighthouse is also a highly valuable historical structure, and the architectural beauty of the lighthouse itself is one of its highlights!
From May to September, sea turtles can be seen swimming in the ocean.
Access: 50 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Yakushima Environmental Cultural Village Center
Introducing the island's nature and culture
The Yakushima Environmental Culture Village Center is a facility that comprehensively introduces the natural environment, culture, and history of Yakushima. Visitors can learn about the origins of the island, its ecosystem, and the lives of its people in the exhibition hall and video hall.
The aerial footage of "Yakushima - Symphony of Forest and Water" is very realistic!
For first-time visitors to Yakushima, this spot is recommended to understand the whole picture of Yakushima.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Intermediate Banyan Tree (Nakama)
Looking up at the huge banyan tree
The middle banyan is,A huge banyan tree said to be over 300 years oldIt is.
It rises in an arch shape on the banks of the Chungang River, and its dignified appearance reminds visitors of the power of nature. Standing under the arch is also a good place to take pictures♪
Access: 37 minutes by car from Awa Port
How long does it take to go around Yakushima?
The circumference road of Yakushima is approximately 130 kilometers. If you drive without taking a break or stopping at tourist spots, it takes about 3 to 4 hours by car to go around the island.
Considering that you will be making a round trip with stops at tourist spots, we recommend at least 2 days and 1 night, and at least 3 days and 3 nights and 4 days.
やりたいこと、行きたい場所に応じて宿泊日数を考えて、屋久島観光を満喫しましょう。
The following plans are recommended for sightseeing on the island.
About Yakushima Tourism
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A. For beginnersRecommended trekking spots are Shiratani-unsui Gorge and Yakusugiland.are. Both are at relatively low elevations and have well-maintained, easy-to-walk paths. Shiratani-unsui Gorge is famous as the forest of "Princess Mononoke," and even beginners can enjoy nature to the fullest. Yakusugiriland is a spot where visitors can get up close and personal with the Yakusugi cedar, the symbol of Yakushima.
summary
We hope you found this article informative and helpful.
Please visit Yakushima to store up life energy and gain the vitality that can only be found here!
屋久島観光に関する情報や登山情報は、「屋久島町公式サイト」や「屋久島観光協会」のウェブサイトでも確認できます。また、世界自然遺産である屋久島の自然保護と利用については、「環境省」関連の情報も重要な参考となります。
Yakushima Activities, a reservation site specializing in Yakushima Island, offers many carefully selected tours, so please check it out.
Thank you for taking the time to read this to the end.
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