Yakushima Travel Guides

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Yakushima Island

A World Natural Heritage Island of Ancient Forests and Abundant Water

Located south of mainland Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima is one of Japan's most remarkable natural destinations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1993, the island is celebrated for its ancient forests, extraordinary biodiversity, rugged mountains, clear rivers, and spectacular waterfalls. Its landscapes offer visitors an opportunity to experience a natural environment that ha...»

Shiratani Unsui Gorge

A Mystical Forest of Moss, Clear Streams, and Ancient Trees

Shiratani Unsui Gorge is a beautiful forested valley on Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture. It stretches along the Shiratani River, a tributary of the Miyanoura River in the northern part of the island. Known for its lush vegetation, moss-covered rocks, and clear flowing water, the gorge has long been admired as one of Yakushima's most scenic natural areas. Yakushima is famous for its ancie...»

Jomon Sugi - Cedars

An Ancient Giant Cedar That Has Witnessed the Passage of Time

Jomon Sugi is one of the largest and most famous Yakusugi cedars growing on Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture. Its name evokes the Jomon period, an ancient era of Japanese history, and the tree is celebrated as though it had stood on the island since prehistoric times. As one of Yakushima's most iconic natural landmarks, Jomon Sugi forms part of the island's UNESCO World Natural Heritage a...»

Wilson's Stump

A Mysterious Giant Cedar Stump Hidden in Yakushima’s Forest

Wilson's Stump is a famous remnant of an enormous Yakusugi cedar tree on Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture. The tree was cut down in the past and is believed to have been used as timber for important historical buildings. According to tradition, it was felled under orders from Toyotomi Hideyoshi for the construction of the Great Buddha Hall at Hokoji Temple in Kyoto. Another theory suggests...»

Yakusugi Nature Center

Discover the Ancient Cedar Trees and Natural Heritage of Yakushima

Yakusugi Nature Center is a museum in Anbo, Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture, dedicated to the island's famous ancient cedar trees, known as Yakusugi, and the natural environment in which they grow. Through its exhibits, visitors can learn about the island's distinctive vegetation, the history of its forests, and the relationship between local people and the surrounding natural environment. Yakush...»

Kubiore Saba: Fresh Mackerel from Yakushima

A Famous Seafood Specialty of Yakushima

Kubiore Saba is one of the signature seafood specialties of Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture. Its name means “neck-broken mackerel” and comes from a traditional freshness-preserving technique: immediately after the fish is caught, the neck of the chub mackerel is broken to drain its blood. This distinctive method was developed through the experience and ingenuity of local fishermen. By bl...»

Okawa Waterfall

A Powerful 88-Meter Waterfall on Yakushima Island

One of the Largest Waterfalls on Yakushima Okawa Waterfall (Ōko-no-taki) is located in the Kurio area on the southwestern coast of Yakushima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture. It is one of the island's most impressive natural attractions and is recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. With a dramatic drop of 88 meters, the waterfall plunges down a steep cliff in a powerful cascade. It is the ...»

Hirauchi Underwater Hot Spring

A Mysterious Seaside Bath Revealed by the Tides

A Natural Hot Spring That Appears at Low Tide Hirauchi Underwater Hot Spring is an unusual hot spring located in Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. It emerges from the rocky shore at the southern end of Yakushima, an island with a long history that once belonged to the historic province of Osumi. This remarkable place allows visitors to experience the power of nature firsthand...»

Satsuma Kintsuba – A Traditional Sweet Made with Kagoshima Sweet Potatoes

A Kagoshima Specialty Filled with the Natural Sweetness of Sweet Potatoes

Satsuma Kintsuba is a traditional confection from Kagoshima Prefecture, made with locally grown sweet potatoes. Produced by Baba Seika, it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the craftsmanship of experienced Japanese confectioners. The confection is made using four varieties of sweet potato: Kogane-imo, Hayato-imo, purple sweet potato, and Anno sweet potato. Kagoshima-produced h...»

Senpiro Waterfall

A Spectacular Waterfall Flowing Across an Enormous Granite Rock Face

Senpiro Waterfall is a magnificent waterfall on Yakushima Island. It is one of the island's best-known waterfalls and attracts visitors with its beautiful scenery and distinctive geological features....»

Yakushima Town

A Town Supporting an Island of World Natural Heritage

Yakushima Town is located in Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. Its administrative area covers the entirety of Yakushima and Kuchinoerabujima, both part of the Osumi Islands. As of 2022, the town had a population of approximately 11,000. Its abundant natural environment and distinctive culture attract visitors from around the world....»

Mount Miyanoura

The Highest Peak in Kyushu, Rising Above the Forests of Yakushima

Mount Miyanoura is a mountain with an elevation of 1,936 meters, located in the central part of Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture. It is the highest mountain not only on Yakushima but also in the entire Kyushu region. Its summit rises higher than Mount Naka (1,791 meters) in the Kuju Mountain Range of Oita Prefecture, the highest peak on mainland Kyushu. The mountain area is part of the UNESCO Wo...»

Onoaida Onsen

A Traditional Hot Spring at the Foot of Mount Mocchomudake

Onoaida Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. Surrounded by the lush natural environment of Yakushima, the hot spring is particularly popular with hikers who want to relax after exploring the island's mountains and forests. Yakushima is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, celebrated for its ancient cedar forests, rugged mountains...»

Yakushima Onsen

Relax in a Natural Hot Spring Surrounded by the World Heritage Landscape of Yakushima

Yakushima Onsen is a hot spring facility located in the Onoaida area of Yakushima Town, Kagoshima Prefecture. Surrounded by the island's rich natural environment, it offers visitors a relaxing bathing experience with spectacular views of the sea. Yakushima is famous for its ancient cedar forests, mountainous landscape, abundant rainfall, and clear rivers. While many visitors come to explore its f...»

Yudomari Onsen (Yakushima)

A Rustic Open-Air Hot Spring Surrounded by Coastal Scenery

Yudomari Onsen is a small, peaceful hot spring located in Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. Set along the coast of Yakushima, it is known for its rustic outdoor bathing pools surrounded by natural rocks and beautiful seaside scenery. Unlike large commercial hot spring facilities, Yudomari Onsen is an unmanned bathing area with a simple, natural atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy ...»

Miyanoura Port (Yakushima)

The Maritime Gateway to Yakushima

Miyanoura Port is one of the main ports on Yakushima Island, located in Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. It is a local port managed by Kagoshima Prefecture and serves as an important gateway for both residents and visitors arriving on the island. Situated on Yakushima’s northeastern coast, the port faces the East China Sea....»

Yaku Shrine (Yakushima)

A Shrine Preserving the Ancient History of Yakushima

Yaku Shrine, known in Japanese as Yaku Jinja (益救神社), is located in Miyanoura, Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture. It is an ancient shrine that has long been an important place of worship on Yakushima. As a shrine recorded in the Engishiki, an important historical register of shrines, it holds a significant place in the religious and cultural history of the island. Its former shr...»

Sightseeing and travel guide for Yakushima

Absolutely! Yakushima is a beautiful island in Japan known for its ancient cedar forests and breathtaking natural landscapes. Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, souvenirs, and more in Yakushima:

Sightseeing:
1. Yakusugi Land: Explore the Yakusugi Land nature park and see ancient cedar trees, some of which are thousands of years old.
2. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine: Take a hike through the enchanting forested trails of Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, which served as an inspiration for the movie "Princess Mononoke."
3. Jomon Sugi: Embark on a challenging hike to Jomon Sugi, one of the oldest and largest cedar trees in Japan.

Dining:
1. Local Seafood: Indulge in fresh seafood dishes, including sashimi and grilled fish, featuring the island's bountiful seafood offerings.
2. Yakushima Black Pork: Try the renowned Yakushima black pork, a local specialty known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

Lodging:
1. Ryokans and Minshukus: Experience traditional Japanese hospitality by staying in a ryokan or minshuku, where you can enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and hot spring baths.

Hot Springs:
1. Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen: Soak in the unique Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a natural hot spring located by the sea that is accessible during low tide.

Activities:
1. Yakushima Island Tour: Take a guided island tour to discover the island's natural wonders, including waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints.
2. Kayaking and Snorkeling: Explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding Yakushima by kayaking or snorkeling.
3. Forest Bathing: Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the ancient forests and practice forest bathing, a meditative experience that promotes relaxation and well-being.

Souvenirs:
1. Yakusugi Wood Products: Purchase unique souvenirs made from Yakusugi wood, such as handicrafts, furniture, or small decorative items.
2. Local Sweets: Look for locally made sweets and confectioneries, such as yuzu-flavored treats or Yakushima honey.

These are just a few recommendations to enhance your visit to Yakushima. Enjoy the island's natural wonders, indulge in delicious cuisine, and bring back memorable souvenirs. Have a fantastic trip!

Yakushima Gourmet and Souvenir Guide

Yakushima, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, is a picturesque island known for its ancient forests, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. Here's some information about the specialties and local foods, popular restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and souvenirs you can explore in Yakushima:

Specialties and Local Foods:

1. Yakushima Cedar Rice: Yakushima is famous for its ancient cedar forests, and one local specialty is Yakushima Cedar Rice. This fragrant rice is cooked with chips of Yakushima cedar, infusing it with a unique aroma and flavor.

2. Flying Fish Sashimi: Yakushima is surrounded by rich fishing grounds, and one popular local dish is flying fish sashimi. The delicate, translucent slices of flying fish are often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and other condiments.

3. Yakushima Black Tea: Yakushima is known for its tea plantations, and Yakushima Black Tea is highly regarded. The tea has a rich, mellow flavor and is often enjoyed on its own or paired with local sweets.

Popular Restaurants:

1. Miyanoura Kitchen (Miyanoura): Miyanoura Kitchen is a highly rated restaurant located in Miyanoura, Yakushima. They offer a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

2. Yama-no-Chaya (Miyanoura): Yama-no-Chaya is a popular restaurant and tea house in Miyanoura that offers a beautiful setting surrounded by nature. They serve a range of dishes, including seafood, vegetarian options, and Japanese-style curry. After your meal, you can relax with a cup of Yakushima tea.

3. Nakama (Anbo): Nakama is a well-regarded restaurant located in Anbo, Yakushima. They specialize in local cuisine, including fresh seafood, Yakushima black pork, and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, and their menu showcases the flavors of the island.

Souvenirs:

1. Yakusugi Crafts: Yakusugi, the ancient cedar trees of Yakushima, are revered for their beauty and longevity. Look for handcrafted items made from Yakusugi wood, such as wooden bowls, chopsticks, or decorative items.

2. Local Sweets: Yakushima offers a variety of local sweets and confectioneries. Look for treats like Yakushima black tea-flavored chocolates, cookies, or traditional Japanese wagashi (sweets) made with local ingredients.

3. Yakushima Tea: Bring home the taste of Yakushima by purchasing packs of Yakushima Black Tea or other local tea varieties. Look for high-quality tea leaves or tea bags to enjoy the distinct flavors of the island.

Additionally, Yakushima is known for its stunning natural beauty, so consider exploring hiking trails, visiting waterfalls, or taking a boat tour around the island to fully immerse yourself in its charm. Enjoy your sightseeing and savor the specialties of Yakushima!

Seasonal festivals and events in Yakushima

Yakushima, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, is a beautiful island known for its ancient forests, stunning nature, and unique wildlife. While Yakushima doesn't have many large-scale festivals, it offers a serene and captivating environment throughout the year. Here are some highlights and special features of Yakushima:

Spring:
- Cherry Blossom Viewing: In spring, Yakushima is adorned with cherry blossoms. Various spots on the island, including Yakusugi Land and Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, offer beautiful settings for hanami (flower viewing) and leisurely walks amidst blooming cherry trees.

Summer:
- Sea Turtle Nesting: Yakushima's beaches are important nesting sites for endangered sea turtles, including the loggerhead turtle. During the summer months, guided tours are available to witness sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. This is a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Fall:
- Autumn Foliage: As autumn arrives, Yakushima's forests transform into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. The island's ancient cedar trees and lush vegetation create a picturesque backdrop for hiking and exploring. Popular spots like Jomon Sugi and Oko-no-taki waterfall offer breathtaking autumn foliage views.

Winter:
- Winter Hiking: While Yakushima experiences milder winters compared to mainland Japan, the island's higher elevations can receive snowfall. Winter is a great time for hiking enthusiasts to explore Yakushima's trails, including the challenging hike to Miyanoura-dake, the island's highest peak.

Special Features:
1. Yakusugi Land: This nature park is home to some of Yakushima's ancient cedar trees, known as Yakusugi. The park offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to encounter these majestic trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old.

2. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine: This mystical forested ravine served as an inspiration for the setting of the famous animated film "Princess Mononoke." It offers picturesque trails, moss-covered rocks, and ancient trees, creating a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere.

3. Jomon Sugi: Jomon Sugi is one of Yakushima's most famous cedar trees, estimated to be over 2,000 to 7,200 years old. It is a sacred tree and can be reached via a challenging hike. Seeing this ancient tree up close is an awe-inspiring experience.

4. Yakushima Wildlife: Yakushima is home to unique wildlife, including Yakushima macaques (monkeys), deer, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures while exploring the island's forests and trails.

5. Yakushima Onsen: After a day of hiking and exploring, visitors can relax in one of Yakushima's hot springs (onsen). The warm mineral-rich waters offer rejuvenation and a chance to unwind amidst the island's natural beauty.

Please note that Yakushima's natural environment is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's important to respect and preserve the island's delicate ecosystem during your visit. Enjoy your sightseeing trip to Yakushima and immerse yourself in the island's ancient forests, breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife.

Temperature and weather conditions in Yakushima

Yakushima, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, is known for its pristine natural beauty and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Yakushima during different seasons:

1. Spring (March to May):
Spring in Yakushima is mild and pleasant. In March, the average high temperature ranges from 16°C (61°F) to 18°C (64°F), while in May, it ranges from 19°C (66°F) to 22°C (72°F). Spring is a beautiful time to visit as the island comes alive with vibrant foliage and blooming flowers.

2. Rainy Season (June to July):
Yakushima experiences a rainy season, known as "tsuyu," from June to early July. During this period, rainfall increases, and humidity levels rise. June is the wettest month, so expect significant rainfall. The temperatures during the rainy season range from 21°C (70°F) to 25°C (77°F).

3. Summer (June to August):
Summers in Yakushima are warm and humid. July and August are the hottest months, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84°F). The humidity can be high, but the island's lush forests provide some relief. It's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun while exploring the trails and natural attractions.

4. Fall (September to November):
Fall in Yakushima brings pleasant temperatures and lower humidity levels. September still retains some summer warmth, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 27°C (81°F). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually cool down. In November, the average high temperature ranges from 19°C (66°F) to 22°C (72°F). Fall is a popular season for visitors to witness the stunning autumn foliage.

5. Winter (December to February):
Winters in Yakushima are mild and relatively cool. December and January are the coolest months, with average temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 16°C (61°F). Snowfall is rare, mainly occurring on higher elevations. Winter is a quieter time on the island, and while it may be cooler, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for exploring Yakushima's natural wonders.

Special Features:
Yakushima is renowned for its ancient cedar forests, including the Yakusugi Land and Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, which are home to thousand-year-old cedar trees. The island offers various hiking trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of nature.

Jomon Sugi, a cedar tree estimated to be over 2,000 years old, is one of the main attractions in Yakushima. It requires a challenging hike to reach, but the sight of this ancient tree is awe-inspiring.

Yakushima is also known for its wildlife, including indigenous species like the Yakushima macaque (Japanese macaque) and the Yaku deer. These animals can often be spotted during hikes or while exploring the island's natural areas.

The island is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, serene beaches, waterfalls, and hot springs, Yakushima offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, snorkeling, and diving.

When planning your trip to Yakushima, it's advisable to check the local weather forecast, dress appropriately for outdoor activities, and consider the conditions of hiking trails as they can vary in difficulty and accessibility.