The definitive guide to sightseeing in Yakushima! World Heritage Sites, Hot Springs, Activities, and Unmissable Spots!

The definitive guide to sightseeing in Yakushima!
Sightseeing Spot Summary

Yakushima, a World Heritage site of natural beauty, is full of attractions such as mysterious forests, waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, and healing hot springs!

In this article,Standard tourist attractionsfrom (e.g. time, place, numerical quantity)Spectacular view of a hole in the ground, ,Activitiesand ... andGourmet InformationWe will introduce all of the attractions of Yakushima Island sightseeing, from the

A must-see for first-timers and repeaters alike.Comprehensive GuideÂ

Held in Yakushima!
Click here for recommended tour ranking

What is Yakushima like?
Basic Information and Attractions

Yakushima Island is located in the south of Kagoshima Prefecture and was established in 1993.The first island in Japan to be registered as a World Natural Heritage siteIt is.

More than 90% of the island is covered with forests, and mysterious nature such as Yakusugi cedars, clear streams, and waterfalls are found here.

It is an attractive tourist destination where you can enjoy not only mountain climbing and trekking, but also the sea, hot springs, and gourmet food.

How to get there and how long it takes

The main accesses to Yakushima areairplaneandshipThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

It takes about 35 minutes by plane from Kagoshima Airport and about 2.5 hours by high-speed boat from Kagoshima Port.

There are also direct flights from Fukuoka and Osaka, making it surprisingly accessible. The key is to choose according to your travel style and budget!

Climate of Yakushima and recommended season

Yakushima Island has a lot of rain throughout the year.It rains 35 days a month.It is also referred to as "the

The temperature is mild throughout the year, and you can enjoy trekking and playing in the sea from spring to fall, and enjoy the quiet nature in winter.

Particularly recommended areMay with beautiful fresh greeneryandNovember, when the autumn leaves are in full bloomIt is.

Why was it registered as a World Natural Heritage site?

Why was Yakushima registered as a World Natural Heritage site?Unique ecosystemandPristine natural environmentThe following is located in the

The diverse vegetation created by the difference in elevation, the thousands of years old Yakusugi cedar trees, and the clean water source were highly evaluated.

It is a treasure trove of nature that has remained largely untouched by man.

A classic spot for sightseeing in Yakushima

Yakushima Island is dotted with classic sightseeing spots where you can experience the mysteries of nature☆.

Jomon Cedars, Shiratani Unsui Gorge, and Okawa Falls are just a few of the sights that can be enjoyed by trekking or driving.

The overwhelming scale of nature heals the hearts of visitors!

Jomon cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)
Yakushima's largest power spot

Jomon cedars areEstimated to be over 2,000 years oldalso referred to asSymbol of YakushimaThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

The 10-hour round-trip trek requires stamina, but the face-to-face encounter with the giant trees is a moving experience.

If you visit Yakushima, this is a power spot you must experience at least once.

Enjoy the great outdoors! Pick-up and drop-off included♪
Click here for recommended trekking tours ☆↓↓.

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 hours16,000 yen

Yakushima】Yakushima's oldest cedar tree, Yakusugi, is a World Heritage Site! 7,200 year old "Jomon Cedar" Trekking Tour (No.67)開始時間4:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 8 to 10 hours15,400 yen

Yakushima】This is a great deal for a 2-day set tour! Enjoy the tour of "Jomon Cedars" and "Shiratani-Unsui Gorge" trekking!開始時間: (Day 1) 4:00-5:00 p.m.
(Day 2) 7:45-16:00所要時間: (Day 1) approx. 10 hrs.
(Day 2) Approx. 7 hours28,600 yen

Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)
The forest where "Princess Mononoke" was set

Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)is the story of the popular movie "Princess MononokeA popular spot with a mossy forest that served as the model for the film ☆.

There are multiple trekking courses to choose from, depending on your fitness and time.

The fantastic scenery is also very photogenic!

Enjoy nature to the fullest! Click here for recommended trekking tours

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 hours10,000 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 hours12,000 yen

Click here for popular mountaineering and trekking tours

Okawa Falls
Spectacular view, selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan

88m dropThe Okawa Falls, which boasts a spectacular view of the Yakushima River, is one of the most dynamic and spectacular sights on Yakushima Island.

You can get close to the waterfall basin and feel the power of nature as you splash in the water.

It is also a good place to stop by on the way for a drive.

Basic information on Okawa Falls

Address: Kurio, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima
Access: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Parking: Available (free of charge)
Facilities：Toilets available

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 recommended waterfall tours in Yakushima.

Yakushima / approx. 4 hours] Leave all sightseeing and transportation to us! Free Island Sightseeing Plan <Requests for places you want to visit OK＞For your first visit to Yakushima, family trip, company trip, etc.　(No.56)開始時間Individual Consultation所要時間Approx. 5 hours15,000 yen

Yakushima Island/One-day charter] 75-year-olds can also join this tour! Unexplored spots known only to the guide☆This tour is completely tailor-made to meet your needs (No.42)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 8 hours14,500 yen

Chihiro Falls and Mt.
Spectacular natural scenery

Sliding down the massive graniteabundant natural beautyis a powerful and spectacular viewpoint.

The view from the nearby observatory is breathtaking.

Further,Altitude 1,497m(at sentence-end, falling tone) indicates a confident conclusionMt. Tachu (in Kyoto)If you go as far asscheeliteYou can also encounter mysterious nature such as

Basic information on Chihiro Falls

Address: Mugu, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima
Access: 30 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Parking: Available (free of charge)
Facilities：Toilets available

Yakushima - Chihiro no Taki Waterfall   Senpiro no Taki is a waterfall located upstream from the Tai-no-gawa River, which flows through Yakushima Island. It is a dynamic waterfall with a drop of 60 meters. The smooth-surfaced granite monolith to the left of the waterfall looks like the wall of a skyscraper [...].

You can also enjoy the ocean, beaches, and activities!

Yakushima Island has a strong image of forests, but in factbeautiful seaandbeachis also attractive.

â- There are clear beaches, spawning grounds for sea turtles, and a variety of marine activities.â

You can experience both relaxing and active experiences in nature!

Click here for a list of Yakushima diving

Ichiminato Beach with excellent transparency

Ichiminato Beach is located in the northern part of the island.Beach with excellent transparencyThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

It is well known by the locals, and the waves are calm and easy to swim in.

It is also ideal for snorkeling, where you can enjoy coral reefs and tropical fish up close.

Nagata Inaka beach where sea turtles lay eggs

Nagata Inaka Beach is one of the world's most preciousSea turtle spawning groundsThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

May-JulySea turtles sometimes come ashore on the beach to watch the impressive spawning scene.

Guided observation tours are recommended at night.

Basic Information on Nagata Inaka Beach

Address: Nagata, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima
Access: 40 minutes by car from Miyanoura Port
Parking: Yes
Facilities：Toilets available

Yakushima - Nagata Beach (Inaka Beach, Maehama, Yotsusehama)   About Nagata Beach (Inaka Beach, Maehama Beach, Yotsuse Beach) Nagata Beach is located in the northwestern part of Yakushima. Many sea turtles lay their eggs from May to July every year on this beach, which is created by white sand of weathered granite carried by the Nagata River from Okudake [...].

Diving and snorkeling

In the beautiful sea of Yakushima, you can enjoy encounters with sea turtles, coral reefs, and colorful tropical fish.divinginterpoint (interword separation)snorkelingis popular.

Marine activities in the crystal clear waters can be enjoyed by beginners as well as experienced sailors.

Experience the unique charm of the sea on Yakushima.

Click here for snorkeling tours you can enjoy in Yakushima☆↓.

Yakushima Island/3 hours】May see sea turtles☆Easy snorkeling tour in the crystal clear ocean (No.80)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours5,500 yen

Yakushima Island / 1 Day] 70 years old and up OK! Let's spend the whole day playing!開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours14,850 yen

SUP Experience

The activity that can enjoy the great nature of Yakushima from the water isSUP(Stand Up Paddle).

You can enjoy Yakushima's verdant scenery and wildlife encounters while leisurely paddling along calm rivers and seas.

There are a variety of tours that even beginners can experience with ease and enjoy the spectacular view and healing time.

Here are some SUP tours you can enjoy in Yakushima☆↓.

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

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & SUP Tour (with packed lunch & pick-up) (No.10)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours17,050 yen

Yakushima Island/One-day] SUP & Experience Diving Tour (including equipment complete set rental and lunch box)　Photo present　Enjoy the ocean of Yakushima　(No.19)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours17,600 yen

Hot spring spots for healing in Yakushima

After walking a lot during trekking and sightseeing, Yakushima'snatural hot springRelax with a

The island is dotted with hot springs with different atmospheres,A spectacular hot spring where you can bathe while enjoying a view of the oceanThere are also

Enjoy a healing time where you can become one with nature☆.

Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen
A fantastic hot spring that can be entered only at low tide

Hirauchi Kainaka Onsen springs on a rocky beach by the sea.natural hot springand can be bathed only at low tide."Phantom hot spring".

It features a location that is integrated with the ocean, giving it a great sense of openness.

Mixed bathing and swimsuits are not allowed, so it is best to check the low tide time before visiting!

Onoma Onsen
Retro hot spring popular among locals

Onoma Onsen has a long history of being loved by the locals and has a nostalgic atmosphere.

The bathtub ishot water (esp. cold mineral spring water heated up at the right temperature for bathing)is a feature of the hotel, and it relieves fatigue after a day of mountain climbing.

Reasonable rates are also a plus.

Relaxing bath with a view of the sea

Yudomari Hot Springs are located by the sea.natural open-air bathThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

You can enjoy an exquisite moment to relax your mind and body while gazing at the horizon stretching out in front of you.

This is a popular spot where you can enjoy the harmony with nature☆.

Gourmet food and cafes to enjoy in Yakushima

In between sightseeing, you can enjoy Yakushima's uniquegourmetandcafeThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Fresh seafood, dishes using local ingredients, and stylish cafes where you can relax are just a few of the delicacies that will add to the memories of your trip☆.

Local delicacies such as flying fish dishes and broken-neck mackerel

Speaking of Yakushima's specialties,fried flying fishDried fish and vegetables,Sashimi of broken-necked mackerelThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

The dishes that make the most of fresh seafood are all exquisite ☆.

You can taste it at local eateries and taverns!

Take a break at a popular island cafe

Yakushima is surrounded by nature.hideaway-style cafeand ... andCafes with a spectacular view of the seaare scattered throughout the area.

Sweets and coffee made with local ingredients offer a relaxing break from sightseeing.

It's sure to be a memorable part of your trip... ♪

Specialty products for souvenirs

On Yakushima Island,Yakusugi Crafts, ,the Bank of Japan's quarterly Short-term Economic Survey of Principal Enterprise in Japan(citrus),brown cane sugar, ,flying fish (esp. the Japanese flying fish, Cypselurus agoo)Dried fishand other specialty products that make great souvenirs.

They are readily available at supermarkets, roadside stations, and airport kiosks, so be sure to check them out at the end of your trip☆.

I want to know before I travel!
Yakushima Tourist Attractions

Yakushima Island is characterized by its rich nature and varied climate.

Advance preparation is important for an enjoyable and safe trip.

attireand ... andMeans of transportationHere are some tips for sightseeing that you should know, such as how to avoid crowds!

What to wear and what to bring

In Yakushima sightseeing,Clothing for both mountain and oceanis required.

Rainwear and comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Even in summer, temperatures can drop, so be prepared with a light jacket.

insect repellentand ... andsunscreenDon't forget about the

Car rental, bus and cab transportation

Yakushima has limited public transportation for sightseeing.Car rental is convenientIt is.

Buses are infrequent and it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.

Cabs are also available as sightseeing cabs.

If you want to know more about means of transportation in Yakushima, click here↓.

Is a rental car essential for a trip to Yakushima? We introduce the means of transportation in the island and recommended tours with pickup and drop-off!Contents1 Rental car situation in Yakushima2 Introduction of rental car stores in Yakushima2.1 Orix Rent-a-Car2.2 Times Car Rental2.3 Nico Nico Rent-a-Car3 Is it necessary to rent a car in Yakushima? Advantages and disadvantages of using a rental car3. [...]

Recommended way to get around to avoid crowds

The popular Jomon Cedars and Shiratani Unsui Gorge areEarly morning departureThen it is easy to avoid congestion.

Also, if you aim for weekdays or off-season, you can enjoy the quieter nature.

It is helpful to plan your accommodation and sightseeing route.

If you would like to know more about the Yakushima Model Course, please click here↓.

The latest edition of the complete guide to Yakushima model courses in 1 night/2 days, 2 nights/3 days, and 3 nights/4 days!Contents1 Beginners can also enjoy Yakushima! Introduction of model courses by number of days2 What is Yakushima like2.1 What is the climate of Yakushima3 How to get to Yakushima? Access by "Air" or "Sea" 4 What is the best season for Yakushima trip?

summary

Yakushima is an attractive island where magnificent nature and healing spots coexist, worthy of being a World Natural Heritage site.

From mountain climbing, waterfalls, the ocean, hot springs, and gourmet cuisine, the area is packed with all kinds of fun.

Let's prepare well and enjoy a unique trip to Yakushima♪

Click here↓ to read the article.

8 recommended hot springs in Yakushima! Introducing a model day trip course combined with sightseeing in Yakushima!Contents1 Let's enjoy the hot springs in the nature of Yakushima! Recommended natural hot springs in Yakushima 2.1 ①Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen 2.2 ②Yunokonoyu 2.3 ③Yudomari Onsen 2.4 ④Onoma [...

Yakushima is full of attractions for a solo trip! We also introduce tours that allow you to fully enjoy the charms of Yakushima.Contents1 Recommended for first time travelers! Introducing the charm of Yakushima Solo Travel2 How to get to Yakushima Island3 What is the charm of Yakushima Solo Travel3.1 ①There are many tours you can join by yourself3.2 ②You can change your schedule flexibly3.3 ③Yakushima Solo Travel is easy to [...

Introducing sightseeing spots and activity tours that you should not miss on your trip to Yakushima!Contents1 Must-see for those who travel to the World Heritage Site "Yakushima"! Thorough explanation of recommended tours and sightseeing spots2 How to get to Yakushima Island3 Weather in Yakushima Island (weather and temperature)4 Essential for a trip to Yakushima Island! 6 recommended activity tours4.1 [...]