Your Japan Plan
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Yakushima
Yakushima · Kyushu

Kyushu · 九州

Yakushima

A mountainous island off the southern coast of Kyushu, home to yaku-sugi cedars over a thousand years old — including the Jomon-sugi, estimated at more than two thousand — and the moss-covered rainforest that loosely inspired Princess Mononoke.

Best seasons
Spring · Autumn
JR Pass covers
Not on the base pass
Interests
Nature · Adventure

Highlights

What to see and do.

  • Jomon Sugi (ancient cedar)
  • Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine
  • Yakusugi Land
  • Sea turtle nesting
  • Oko Falls

When to go

Crowd levels by month.

Vermillion density shows how crowded the city feels each month. Darker cells mean more tourists and higher prices.

JanVery low
FebVery low
MarLow
AprLow
MayModerate
JunModerate
JulModerate
AugModerate
SepLow
OctLow
NovLow
DecVery low

Where to stay

Neighbourhoods to consider.

Miyanoura/Anbou

Port towns with most accommodation and restaurants

convenience

Book ahead

Reservations that matter.

Book ferry or flights early. Hire a guide for the Jomon Sugi hike (10+ hours).

Plan a trip around Yakushima.