屋久島
Yakushima
Kagoshima · kyushu
A UNESCO World Heritage island of ancient cedar forests, 1,000-year-old Jomon cedars, and the landscape that inspired Princess Mononoke.
Who Yakushima is for
Hikers, ancient forest seekers, wildlife enthusiasts.
About Yakushima
Yakushima's mountainous interior receives over 10,000mm of rainfall annually, creating a moss-carpeted primeval forest. The Jomonsugi cedar, estimated at 2,170-7,200 years old, is Japan's most ancient living tree.
Things to do
5 of 5Tap a tag to filter the list.
Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge
Tranquil hiking trails in thick woods, with streams, valley views & abundant flora & fauna.
View on Google MapsYakusugi Land
Hiking trails through dense forest & along mossy streams, with wooden walkways & bridges.
View on Google MapsJōmon Sugi
Towering, millennia-old cypress said to be the oldest tree in Japan & a destination for pilgrimages.
View on Google MapsYakusugi Museum
Japanese cedar museum, with tree specimens & logging exhibits, plus a shop with wooden handicrafts.
View on Google MapsYakushima Island
OverlookedSubtropical island & destination for serene mountain hikes through forests with ancient cedar trees.
View on Google Maps
Your JP Adventure
Plan a trip to Yakushima
Turn this into a day-by-day route. Tabi-Kun shapes a personalised Yakushima itinerary around your dates, pace, and interests — free to start.
Plan a trip to Yakushima →Getting around Yakushima
Getting around this forested island relies primarily on the Yakushima Loop Bus, which circles the island with routes typically running every 1-2 hours and connecting major trailheads, villages, and the ferry terminal. Visitors can purchase single tickets (around ¥500 - ¥2,000 depending on distance) or opt for a day pass (usually ¥2,000 - ¥3,000) available at the ferry terminal and convenience stores. Many travelers rent cars or bicycles to explore at their own pace, which is especially useful for accessing remote cedar groves and hiking routes not served by frequent buses. Walking is essential once you arrive at trailheads - the famous hikes to Jomon Sugi and other ancient trees require several hours on foot through pristine forest. Taxis are available but operate on limited schedules, so it's wise to plan ahead or book through your accommodation if needed for evening transport.
Best time to visit
The ideal months to visit are April through May and October through November, when mild temperatures and low rainfall create perfect conditions for hiking through the ancient cedar forests. Spring brings fresh greenery and occasional cherry blossoms in lower elevations, while autumn transforms the island in brilliant reds and golds. Avoid June through September entirely - the rainy season peaks in June, typhoons strike frequently through September, and summer heat combined with humidity becomes oppressive on the steep mountain trails. If you're interested in local culture, the Yakushima Tanegashima Fireworks Festival typically occurs in mid-August, though the heat makes it a less comfortable visit. The shoulder seasons of late March and early December offer fewer crowds than peak periods and still provide reasonable weather for exploring the 1,000-year-old Jomon cedars that inspired Studio Ghibli's forests. For serious trekkers, May and October offer the sweetest balance of accessibility and solitude.
Where to stay
The port town of Miyanoura offers the most convenient base, with casual business hotels and modest guesthouses within walking distance of the ferry terminal and local restaurants - typical rates run ¥8,000 - 15,000 per night for a double room. For a more immersive experience, head to Anbo on the island's west side, where a handful of family-run ryokan and minshuku blend into the quieter village atmosphere and provide easier access to trailheads leading into the ancient cedar forests. Both areas connect to the island's main attractions via local bus routes; Miyanoura serves hikers heading to popular spots like Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, while Anbo is closer to the legendary Jomon Cedar and more remote mountain trails. Vacation rentals and small lodges are scattered throughout, though availability tends to be limited during peak seasons. Consider staying 2 - 3 nights to properly explore the primordial forest landscape that inspired the film Princess Mononoke.
What to eat
Yakushima's remote island setting means fresh seafood dominates the local cuisine, with sashimi and grilled fish featuring prominently at waterfront restaurants. The island is particularly known for its local soba and sashimi teishoku (set meals), typically ¥1,200 - 2,500 per serving, reflecting the cost of importing ingredients to this mountainous destination. For budget-conscious visitors, casual ramen shops and convenience stores offer filling meals under ¥1,000. The Miyanoura port area and local markets near the main towns offer the freshest catches and traditional preparations. Yakushima's tea culture also deserves attention - the island produces high-quality green tea, and several small tea houses near hiking trails serve fresh-brewed varieties. Dining here emphasizes seasonality and local ingredients rather than signature dishes, making each meal a reflection of what the forest and surrounding waters provide.
Reviews
This island stole my heart and took my breath away. Hard to put into words how incredible the nature here is. Theres just gorgeous view after gorgeous view at every corner. All of the people we met on the island were the kindest human beings ever. I didn‘t want to leave and wish i couldve stayed here forever. I hope the island never changes and the people on it will keep protecting and nurturing the nature and animals here.
One of those places that magic you away from the rest of the world. Incredible views of clouds over mountains, forests, cliffs and heaps of deer and monkeys. A car is a must! I recommend the travel company YES Yakushima. They make everything very easy and will organise your car, ferry and accommodation if you want it (free service). The car through them was $350aud ishh for 5 days. We spent 5 days, did the Jomon Sugi hike and part of the Shiratani Unsuikyo trail, do Jomon Sugi but don't underestimate it. Food around is great when the restaurants are open, very friendly and helpful locals. Also recommend the kayak tour!
Well worth everything. Just wonderful wonderland.
I highly recommend visiting this island. One of the best destinations to hike and roam around, the secluded nature setting is just very heart warming. The waterfalls are amazing, the people are really kind. This island is famous for the UNESCO, world heritage, and has the oldest cedar tree in Japan! Better to rent a car and drive around, it rains very often so please have all the gear needed for very heavy rain, just to be safe! Don’t forget to try the flying fish!
I loved this beautiful place, real nature. Everything is expensive but it doesn't matter this place is amazing with beautiful mountains, fruit farm and waterfalls as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guides for Yakushima
View more →How to Navigate Yakushima: Why Hiring a Car is Essential
Yakushima's scattered trailheads and limited buses make hiring a car essential. Guide to rental companies, driving challenges, costs and routes across the island.
Yakushima: Ancient Cedar Island and How to Visit
Visit Yakushima's ancient cedar forests, including the 7,000-year-old Jōmon Sugi. Practical guide to hiking, transport, accommodation and planning your trip.
Japan's World Heritage Forests: Yakushima and Shirakami-Sanchi
Explore Japan's UNESCO World Heritage forests: Yakushima's ancient cedars and Shirakami-Sanchi's virgin beech woodlands. Complete hiking guide with practical tips.
More in kyushu
View more →Takachiho
高千穂
Kyushu · Miyazaki
A mythological gorge of columnar basalt pillars, connected to Japan's creation myth and the gods of the Shinto pantheon.
Dazaifu
太宰府
Kyushu · Fukuoka
An ancient government city and site of Japan's most important shrine for scholars, students, and the god of learning.
Ibusuki
指宿
Kyushu · Kagoshima
The southernmost resort of Kyushu, famous for volcanic sand baths on a black sand beach with views to Kaimondake.
Makurazaki
枕崎
Kyushu · Kagoshima
Japan's katsuobushi (bonito flakes) capital - a fishing port at the southern tip of Kyushu where the world's finest dashi-making ingredient is produced.
Share
Send this to anyone considering Yakushima.