Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island, located off the southern coast of Kyushu in Japan, is a natural wonderland. Famous for its ancient cedar trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most famous tree, Jomon Sugi, is believed to be more than 7,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living things on Earth.

The island's diverse ecosystem ranges from warm coastal areas to cool, misty mountains. This creates a unique environment where tropical and temperate plants coexist. Hiking through Yakushima’s dense forests, you’ll encounter lush moss, flowing streams, and a variety of wildlife, including deer and monkeys.

The island receives heavy rainfall, which contributes to its lush greenery. This frequent rain, along with the island's unique climate, has led to the saying that it "rains 35 days a month" on Yakushima.

Beaches like Isso and Kurio offer stunning coastal views, while waterfalls such as Oko-no-taki provide breathtaking scenery. Yakushima's natural beauty inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli's film "Princess Mononoke," adding a touch of magic to its already enchanting landscape.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed:

Irregular Holidays

Available:

All Year (Except Irregular Holidays)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

1,400 yen (Arakawa Mountain Entry bus)

300 yen (Onsen)

*Yakushima Island offers a variety of admission fees