Yakushima-Aiko-dake
What is Aikodake?
Aiko-dake has a difficult granite peak just below the summit, which is also characteristic of the mountains of Yakushima, and is famous as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Kyushu.
From a distance, it looks exactly triangular in shape, which gives a sense of the difficulty of the task from its appearance.
The elevation difference from the trailhead to the summit is 1,000 meters, and the mountain itself is 1,235 meters above sea level, so it will take approximately 4 hours or more each way.
It rains a lot on Yakushima, so if the trail is wet, you are likely to spend even more time on it.
Signs suggesting elevations appear every 100 meters uphill, so it is recommended that you check each pass and adjust your pace accordingly.
Ascending while resting is not a problem, but special care must be taken as the granite just below the summit must be climbed using ropes.
If you are able to reach the summit, you will have a 360-degree panoramic view of the mountain, which is unique in its triangular spearhead.
As for access, you can drive to the trailhead and park about 10 cars. In the case of buses, it is quite a walk from the Aikodake entrance stop to the trailhead, so those who wish to conserve their strength may consider taking a cab to the trailhead.
Directions to Aikodake
If you are going by rental car
Aikodake is located approximately 20 minutes by car from the Miyanoura area.
Turn toward the mountain at the Miyanoura Elementary School intersection, and when you see the sign for Shiratani Unsuikyo, follow the road up the mountain.
Free parking is available at the entrance.
By bus
There are two routes to take by bus
Miyanoura Port→Shirotani Unsui Gorge (time required: 35 minutes, cost: 550 yen)
Obaracho→Shirotani Unsuikyo (time required: 25 minutes, cost: 490 yen)
For more information, please visit the following URL
Yakushima Kotsu Bus Timetable
Yakushima Kotsu Bus Fare Chart
Matsubanda Kotsu Bus Schedule Fare
Detail of Aikodake
| name | Aiko-dake |
| Location | Aikodake, Kamiyaku-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture (View on Map) |
| Access | Approximately 20 minutes by car or 35 minutes by bus from Miyanoura Port |
| parking lot | - |
| Dining (vicinity) | - |
| toilet | - |
