2025 Yakushima Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

Located in the World Heritage Site of Yakushima, this is a resort hotel with the best hospitality, which won the One Michelin Key in 2024❤︎ The blue sea and sky spread out before you🌊 🌳🌴🌳 Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima〜ʚ♡ɞ The suites and villa-type rooms have a lovely Asian modern design❤︎ Each guest is assigned a dedicated concierge called a butler, so you can enjoy a very comfortable hotel stay♪ The Sankara Suite room where I stayed this time also has an in-spa room where you can receive treatments indoors and a semi-open-air bath♨️ A 24-hour healing space〜ʚ♡ɞ The infinity pool and sauna overlooking the sea🌊 are also great ♪ You can also enjoy afternoon tea by the pool 🫖 ♡ Because Sankara is an auberge hotel, dinner and breakfast are included in the room rate ❤︎ The French dinner was delicious 🍽️ Rooms and service ♡ Food, pool, and location ♡ A hotel with high satisfaction in all aspects 🌟🌟🌟 A butler will pick you up and drop you off at Yakushima Airport for free 🚙 A resort for adults frequented by bachelorettes and celebrities ʚ♡ɞ Please save this and go! ❤︎︎** ** ✰ ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ 📍 sankara hotel & spa Yakushima 🇯🇵 553 Mugio, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 📲0800-800-6007 🚙 40 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ✰ #100TravelStyles #GirlsTrip #TabiJo #PhotoSpots #OutingSpots #FreeTabi

Yakushima, a World Heritage Site❤︎ Yakusugi Land, a tourist attraction on Yakushima, is a power spot where you can see many virgin forests, including the 1800-year-old Buddha Cedar🌲♡ It is a vast forest covering an area of ​​about 270ha, and there are four courses ranging from 30 to 150 minutes👟 There are courses ranging from easy trekking to more advanced courses♪ As soon as you step through the entrance, you will feel as if you have entered the world of Princess Mononoke〜ʚ♡ɞ This time, we enjoyed the 80-minute course in the light rain🌳 It was a wonderful spot where you can feel the power of nature〜❤︎︎** ** ✰ ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ 📍Yakusugi Land 🇯🇵Awa 0, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kashima Prefecture 📲0997-46-4015 🕰️Opening hours: OPEN: 9am-5pm 💰Price per person: Admission: Adults 500 ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ✰ #100TravelStyles #GirlsTrip #TabiJo #PhotoSpots #OutingSpots #FuriTabi #Yakushima

Yakushima, famous for its wildlife and Yakusugi cedars, is famous for the Jomon cedars, which are thousands of years old and require a risky trek, but there are also many places that can be easily accessed by bus or on foot. We especially recommend Yakusugi Land, where you can experience the virgin forest as it is⭐️ There are five walking courses, so you can enjoy the power of nature according to your physical strength and physical condition❤️ The feeling of walking through the world of Sennen Sugi, Buddha Sugi, and Ghibli is refreshing😊 Yakushima also has Shiratani Unsuikyo and a coast that boasts top-class beauty, so I think you can have a wonderful island trip😊 [Yakusugi Land] 📍Location: Awa, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 💰Price per person: 500 yen admission fee #Yakushima #Yakushima trip #Kagoshima #Island trip

Yakushima Island is about 60km south of Kagoshima city in Kyushu , Japan. It can be reached by ferry from Kagoshima, or by plane from Kagoshima, Fukuoka, or Osaka ( about one hour). Yakushima gained UNESCO world heritage status in 1993 and is known for its natural beauty, including wildlife and cedar forests. Some of the cedars are over 1000 years old, with diameter of 7-8meters. A few animals are also unique to the island - including the Yaku Monkey and the Yaku deer. We were so lucky to have seen both of them at the end of our trekking. To get to the main trail at Shiratani Unsuikyu, take the bus from the main port of Miyanoura. The fare costs 560 yen one way and only takes 25 minutes uphill. The buses do not run frequently, so renting a car may be a better option if you want to see more of the island within a short time (1-2 days). It takes 3-5 hours to complete the trails at Shiratani, so it is best to start in the early morning. We arrived the island by plane at 11am, and barely made it to the 1pm bus. The last bus that returns to Miyanoura leaves at 4:10pm. So you will have about three hours for the hike. We were lucky to have a cool and dry day, which helped us to complete the trail and see the cedar, moss forest , and the animals on this trip! ##Yakushima ##kyushu ##unescoworldheritage ##hiking

Yakushima is an island in Kyushu, about 90% of the island is covered by mountainous areas and forests, which makes it a very popular spot for hiking. It’s also known as the difficult hikes which takes 9 hours to complete in a round trip, but you can choose hiking courses depending on your level. The easiest one is only 30 minutes long which is suitable for children and beginners. Yakushima offers breathtaking beauty in nature which takes you away from the hustle and bustle in the city. #themeparks

While planning my trip to Yakushima, I decided to stay at THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMA OCEAN & FOREST, and it was a truly satisfying experience. The hotel is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Miyanoura Port, making it easy to reach after arriving in Yakushima by boat. The convenience of not having to drag my luggage around and being able to check in easily was a major plus. Rooms & View The most impressive aspect upon entering the room was the expansive view of the East China Sea. The blue ocean was visible through the window, giving the impression of floating on the sea. The room had a clean and warm wood-tone interior, creating a comfortable atmosphere, and the bedding was soft, ensuring a good night's sleep throughout the trip. Basic amenities were well-provided, and the cleanliness was very satisfactory. Onsen & Sauna After a day of trekking, the hotel's large bath and sauna were perfect for relieving fatigue. Soaking in the onsen while looking out at the sea was truly healing. I never realized how blissful it could be to soak in warm water after trekking. The sauna facilities were also great, allowing me to sweat out and end the day feeling refreshed. The onsen temperature was just right, and it was quiet with few people, making it a peaceful retreat. Meals & Breakfast The breakfast was quite good, served in a Japanese home-cooked style with many dishes made from local Yakushima ingredients, giving a taste of the region's specialties. The set meal included grilled fish, miso soup, fresh vegetables, and more, each dish prepared with care. Dinner at the hotel's restaurant was also impressive, with fresh seafood dishes. The sashimi was particularly fresh, and there were many menu items made with local Yakushima ingredients, providing an authentic local dining experience. The quiet atmosphere made for a leisurely dinner. Service & Location The staff were extremely friendly, welcoming us warmly at check-in and providing helpful information for planning our itinerary. We could also pre-order lunch boxes for trekking, which were made with fresh ingredients and quite satisfying. The hotel's proximity to Miyanoura Port and ease of access to major tourist spots made it convenient for planning our travel routes. Overall If you're looking for a place to fully enjoy nature and relax comfortably in Yakushima, I highly recommend this hotel. With its stunning ocean view, large bath and sauna, friendly service, and excellent breakfast, every aspect was satisfying. It's the perfect choice for enjoying Yakushima's unique quiet and peaceful atmosphere!

#getgoing2025 Yakushima, a subtropical island located off the coast of Kyushu in Kagoshima Prefecture, is a natural wonderland and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its most iconic feature is its ancient cedar forests, home to some of Japan's oldest and largest trees. The most famous of these is the Jomon Sugi, a massive Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese cedar) estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old. Hiking to see this ancient giant is a challenging but rewarding experience, taking several hours through lush forests and mountainous terrain. Yakushima's diverse ecosystem is a major draw for nature lovers. The island's mountainous interior receives some of Japan's highest rainfall, creating lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers. The varying altitudes support a wide range of plant life, from subtropical coastal vegetation to alpine species at higher elevations. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Yakushima macaques (a subspecies of Japanese macaque) and Yakushima deer, which are smaller than their mainland counterparts. Beyond the Jomon Sugi, Yakushima offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a popular destination with well-maintained trails and stunning views of waterfalls and forests. The island's coastline also offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Yakushima's unique blend of ancient forests, rugged mountains, and diverse wildlife makes it a truly special destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.

#getgoing2025 Yakushima, which was registered as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1993, is a mysterious island with a native forest that has not changed since the Jomon period. In the primeval forest of this island, many Yaku cedar trees over thousands of years old live there, and the largest confirmed Yaku cedar "Jomon cedar" is said to be more than 7200 years old and has become a symbol of Yakushima. It is said that the mossy forest "Shiratani Unsuikyo", which has a lot of precipitation throughout the year and was nurtured by the rain, has become a model for the movie "Princess Mononoke". We have a variety of courses, from courses for beginners to courses for advanced users, so please enjoy them.

#japantrip Visiting Yakushima, a remote island off the southern coast of Kyushu, felt like stepping into another world. Renowned for its ancient cedar forests, lush greenery, and untouched natural beauty, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an unforgettable escape into Japan’s wilder side. My adventure began with a hike through the enchanting Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a moss-covered forest that inspired the mystical landscapes of Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke. Walking along the trail felt like entering a fairytale—thick tree roots wove across the path, and vibrant shades of green blanketed every surface. The air was crisp and filled with the sounds of flowing streams and rustling leaves, creating a serene atmosphere that immediately calmed my mind. A highlight of my visit was encountering the island’s famous Yakusugi, or ancient cedar trees. These majestic giants, some over 1,000 years old, exude a sense of timelessness that’s hard to put into words. The most famous among them is Jomon Sugi, believed to be over 7,000 years old and accessible via a challenging but rewarding trek. Though I didn’t make it to Jomon Sugi, just being among these ancient trees was awe-inspiring. Beyond the forests, Yakushima offers a wealth of natural beauty. I spent time at the island’s beaches, including Nagata Inakahama, where sea turtles come to nest during the summer months. The coastline is rugged and dramatic, contrasting beautifully with the tranquility of the interior forests. The wildlife on Yakushima is equally captivating. I spotted wild deer and macaques along the trails, adding a sense of wonder to my hikes. These animals roam freely, blending seamlessly with the island’s pristine environment. Yakushima isn’t just about its natural beauty—it’s also a place of rich cultural heritage. Small villages dot the island, offering glimpses into the traditional way of life. I enjoyed local specialties like flying fish and Yakushima’s unique citrus fruits, which added a delicious touch to the experience. Yakushima left me with a deep appreciation for the power and beauty of nature. Its ancient forests, rugged landscapes, and serene atmosphere make it a destination unlike any other. Whether you’re a hiker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a place to recharge, Yakushima is a magical escape that will stay with you long after you leave.

A recommended summer activity in Yakushima is kayaking on the Anbo River 🌿. As you kayak through the quietly flowing clear water, you will be captivated by the mystical scenery created by the surrounding virgin forest and the emerald green water ✨. The summer sunlight reflects off the water's surface, making the river sparkle and shine like another world! Letting yourself go with the flow of the river and being healed by the silence of nature and the chirping of birds is a luxurious experience you can't get in the city 😊. One of the attractions is that even beginners can enjoy it with peace of mind! Why not create the best summer memories by feeling the nature of Yakushima with your whole body? 📸🌊 #AboRiver #KayakingExperience #AmazingSummerViews #DomesticTravelTrip #Yakushima

📍Japan🇯🇵Kagoshima Yakushima The trolley road to Wilson Stump The beautiful scenery of the trolley road that you would normally not notice because you are busy heading to Jomon Cedar Is it snow or hail? (lol) The beauty is doubled when it falls❄️ I recommend walking slowly to Wilson Stump even if you don't go to Jomon Cedar Is Yakushima also a minus? It's dark and harshly cold, but that's why you can see the magnificent view 📍How to get there -Yakusugi Nature Museum → Arakawa Trailhead 35 minutes by bus (Personal cars allowed in winter December-March) -Arakawa Trailhead → Wilson Stump 6 hours round trip (2 hours extra if you stop and take photos) Maybe you can encounter snow in February? #WilsonStump #DomesticTrip #Yakushima #TrolleyRoad #Winter #WinterTrip

#outdooradventure Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magical island known for its ancient cedar forests, including the iconic Jomon Sugi, one of the world’s oldest trees. The island’s mystical atmosphere inspired Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke. Hiking trails through lush greenery lead to cascading waterfalls, moss-covered landscapes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and soaking in seaside hot springs. Yakushima’s biodiversity and untouched beauty make it a haven for nature lovers. This enchanting destination offers a perfect escape into Japan’s pristine wilderness and is ideal for those seeking adventure and serenity.

\Jomon Cedar Trekking in Yakushima/ ⁡ I tried out Jomon Cedar Trekking 🥾 I haven't been exercising recently, so I was honestly nervous until the day (lol) You'll be walking a 20km round trip. You'll be going not only on flat roads, but also mountain paths and rough roads, so you'll need proper equipment and preparation! But don't worry, you can rent it in Yakushima◎ It was actually pretty tough, but more than that, seeing Jomon Cedar and the scenery along the way was such a treasure that it blew away the fatigue 🥹 Jomon Cedar is something you'll want to see once in your life, so please go and see it💖 #Jomon Cedar #Domestic Travel Trip

🌿 🏞️This island is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, you'll find your own fun here!🌟 👣Suitable for: ⭕️Beginner-friendly: If you're not very familiar with hiking, the Kigensugi and Yayoi Sugi routes in Shiratani Unsuikyo are your best choices. They're easy to start with and offer beautiful scenery. ⭕️Intermediate challenge: For those with some hiking experience, the Tenmon Forest, Yamato Sugi, and Bugyo Sugi and Taiko Iwa routes are good choices. They're moderately difficult and offer stunning scenery. ⭕️Advanced challenge: If you're an experienced hiker, the Jomon Sugi, Miyanoura-dake, and Mt. Nagata routes will definitely satisfy you. Challenge yourself and conquer the peaks! 📅Itinerary planning: Short walk: Choose the Kigensugi or Yayoi Sugi routes to enjoy a relaxing hiking experience and get up close to ancient cedar trees. Medium to long adventure: The Tenmon Forest, Yamato Sugi, or Bugyo Sugi routes let you experience the wonders of nature and explore the unknown. Extreme challenge: The Jomon Sugi, Miyanoura-dake, or Mt. Nagata routes are suitable for thrill-seekers. Climb the peaks and enjoy the magnificent views of the entire island. 🏞️Highlights: 🌲Ancient cedars: Yakushima is home to many ancient cedar trees, each with a thousand-year-old story waiting for you to hear. 💦Waterfalls: The waterfalls in Shiratani Unsuikyo are a paradise for photographers. Remember to bring your camera to capture every wonderful moment. 🐦Birdwatching: While hiking, pay attention to the birdsong around you. You might spot some rare birds! 🍴Food recommendations: Japanese cuisine: Try the local Japanese cuisine and experience the charm of Japanese food culture. Picnic: Bring your favorite food and find a scenic spot during your hike to enjoy a leisurely picnic! 💡Travel tips: ⚠️Be prepared: Check your equipment before hiking, especially waterproof hiking shoes and trekking poles! ⚠️Safety first: Pay attention to safety while hiking, follow local laws and regulations, and don't act on your own. ⚠️Eco-friendly travel: Protecting the natural environment is everyone's responsibility. Remember to take your trash with you and keep Yakushima beautiful and clean.

I participated in a day-trip trekking tour that went around the famous heart-shaped "Wilson Stump," the 3,000-year-old "Daiou Cedar," and the main "Jomon Cedar," which is said to be over 7,000 years old. We left at 4:30 in the morning and walked 22km along the trolley road and mountain trails. It took a lot of stamina, and I was honestly extremely tired the next day, but it was a great experience that gave me a lot of power from the magnificent nature and its history, the beautiful scenery and air. In the first half, we just walked along the trolley road. Along the way, there was a heart-shaped hole in a wooden board, which was photogenic! (I had done some research and I didn't want to miss it, but the guide pointed it out to me.) From the middle, we started walking through tunnels where the trolleys used to pass through and mountain paths. It was a trek with many things to see, such as an air raid shelter made inside a cedar, a baby cedar before it became a small Yakusugi, a tree that looks like a dragon🐉, and the remains of an elementary and junior high school. Apparently the appearance of Wilson Stump changes depending on where you view it and the time of day (how the light shines in). We stopped by on both the way there and on the way back, but just as our guide had told us, there was less light on the way back, so we were able to see the beautiful heart shape! When we finally arrived at Jomon Cedar, it was truly magnificent, beautiful, and majestic, and it took our breath away.... On the way back, we cooled off in the river and encountered some wild monkeys! #Domestic Travel Journal

Yakushima's Kigensugi is a giant Yakusugi tree estimated to be 3,000 years old. 🌲 It's about 6km from Yakusugi Land, and you can reach it in 15 minutes by car. 🚗 There is a walking trail, and the Yakusugi is right next to the road, so unlike Jomon Sugi, it's easy to see. This is recommended for those who think it's a hassle to go to Jomon Sugi. In winter, roads may be closed due to snowfall, so please check road conditions in advance ⛄️ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Name: Kigensugi Address: Onoma, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture Access: 1 minute walk from bus stop No. 72 "Kigensugi" 50 minutes by bus or car from Awa Port Closed: Open all year round - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - #0 yen autumn trip #Yakusugi #Yakushima #Kigensugi

The path to Jomon Cedar has become a standard hiking course on Yakushima. 🥾 The Jomon Cedar that everyone aims to see is said to be 2,000 to 7,200 years old. 👏 You can no longer see it up close, but its size is impressive. But it's not just Jomon Cedar; the path is also full of wonderful scenery. 👍✨ In particular, the 8km long trolley road allows you to enjoy a fantastic world! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Name: To Jomon Cedar Address: Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Miyanoura Port to "Yakusugi Nature Museum" Closed: Open all year round - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - #0 yen travel autumn #Jomon Cedar #Yakushima sightseeing #Yakushima trip #Wilson stump

The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine in Yakushima is the setting for a famous Studio Ghibli animated film✨ I started my hike before dawn and waited for the sunrise in Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine! The forest gradually regained its brightness, creating a truly magical atmosphere. I couldn't help but marvel at the fact that such a world exists in Japan🥹 By the way, it takes 90 minutes to reach the Mossy Forest from the trailhead and 2 hours to reach Taiko Rock🥾 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Name: Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine Address: Miyanoura, Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture Access: About 30 minutes by bus from Miyanoura Port to the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine trailhead Closed: Open year-round - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Yakushima, a World Heritage Site❤︎ A hidden gem that can be reached in 5 minutes from Yakushima Airport🚗 The site of the Hayasaki Mine, where crystals were once mined💎 It is called the Crystal Coast♪ A spectacular power spot that is not even listed in guidebooks and is known only to those in the know〜ʚ♡ɞ A spectacular view that looks like it's from overseas that spreads out at the end of a rocky mountain surrounded by trees💙 The blue sky, sea, and🌊 rock walls are impressive♡ Small crystals sparkle in the gaps between the rocks on the cliff✨ They're beautiful like jewels💎 A wonderful spot where you can feel the power of the mysterious earth〜❤︎︎** ** ✰ ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ 📍Location: Nita Hayasaki Mine Ruins (Crystal Cape) 🇯🇵399 Koseda, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 💰Price per person: Free 24 hours 🚗5 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ✰ #100TravelStyles #GirlsTrip #TabiJo #PowerSpot #PhotoSpot #OutingSpot #FuriTabi #Yakushima

Yakushima, a registered World Heritage Site, is a popular travel destination in Kagoshima Prefecture. Yakushima is the biggest power spot. The waterfall, where you can feel the overwhelming power, is a spot where you can relax by breathing in the air full of negative ions. Okawa Falls is one of the "100 Best Waterfalls in Japan" and is a representative waterfall of Yakushima. Okawa Falls is a powerful waterfall that slides down a cliff with a drop of 88m, splashing with a spectacular amount of water. The water volume increases even more on rainy days. You can walk right under the waterfall basin, so you can feel the negative ions with your whole body while getting splashed with water. It's close to the parking lot, so please go and check it out. Okonotaki Falls 📍Location: Kurio, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 💰Price per person: Free admission and parking About 1 hour by car from Yakushima Airport 5-minute walk from bus stop No. 129 "Okonotaki" ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ✰ #100TravelStyles #GirlsTrip #TabiJo #PhotoSpot #OutingSpot #FuriTabi #Yakushima

The trolley road that you walk on in the first half of the trek to Jomon Cedar is characterized by its unique scenery and ease of walking, and you can enjoy the nature of Yakushima at a leisurely pace. After walking along the trolley road for about two hours, you will connect to the full-scale hiking trail to Wilson Stump and Jomon Cedar. Wilson Stump is also one of the highlights along the way, and it was also very impressive. When you enter the stump, you have a strange feeling as if you are surrounded by a sacred space. The trekking itself is quite hard, and it took about 10 hours round trip. There are many mountain paths and tree roots along the way, but the natural scenery is wonderful, and just walking through the forest is soothing. There are streams and old bridges along the way, and the scenery is varied, so you never get bored. We recommend that you prepare well beforehand. It takes about 30 to 60 minutes by shuttle bus or taxi from the main accommodations on Yakushima to the Arakawa trailhead, which is the entrance to the Jomon Cedar trekking course. #Furitabii #Jomon Cedar #Wilson Stump #Yakushima #Yakushima

Yakushima Island, located off the southern coast of Kyushu in Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient cedar forests and unique biodiversity. The island’s mystical atmosphere is created by the dense, moss-covered trees, particularly the yakusugi (ancient cedar trees), some of which are over 1,000 years old. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a popular hiking destination, inspired the forest scenes in Studio Ghibli’s *Princess Mononoke*. The island is also home to diverse wildlife, including macaques and deer, thriving in its subtropical and temperate climate. Yakushima’s pristine rivers, waterfalls, and lush vegetation make it a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Visitors often come to experience the stunning beauty of Jomon Sugi, the island’s oldest tree, which is estimated to be over 7,000 years old. With its ever-changing weather and rich natural landscapes, Yakushima offers a truly unforgettable journey into Japan’s wild side. #forest

A hot spring in the middle of nature! There is a partition separating the men's and women's baths. There is a ¥300 coin machine at the entrance, so you can put it in before bathing. The spring quality is alkaline simple hot spring It is said to be effective for neuralgia and muscle pain◎ Perfect after climbing Yakushima! I visited in November, but I wanted to stay there for a while It might be better in warmer months♨ Yudomari Onsen 📍Address: 1714-28 Yudomari, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 891-4407 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Price per person: ¥300 #0 yen trip

#japantrip Yakushima Island is a nature lover's nirvana! This enchanting isle boasts majestic mountains, inviting hiking trails, and a stunning volcanic coastline teeming with tide pools. The lush green forests, sparkling waterfalls, and rugged shores will leave you spellbound. No wonder it inspired the iconic film Princess Mononoke! As I explored this hidden gem, I felt like I stepped into a mystical world. With its unspoiled beauty and diverse wildlife, Yakushima is a true marvel of Japan's natural heritage. If you seek an immersive experience amidst nature's splendor, let Yakushima's emerald landscapes captivate your senses.

This time we will introduce Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge in Yakushima. 🌿 The beautiful mossy forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo is a must-see for moss lovers. 🍃 This place was the model for the Studio Ghibli film "Princess Mononoke," directed by Hayao Miyazaki and released in 1997. It is said that Hayao Miyazaki visited this place many times and expanded his imagination when creating the film. All the plants and rocks are covered in moss, and the fantastical green world attracts many people 🥹 It's a wonderful forest that you should visit at least once 🌳 📍 Miyanoura, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture, Miyanoura-dake National Forest 🚗 About 25 minutes from Miyanoura Port, about 50 minutes from Awa Port ⏰ All year round (Management building 8:30-16:30) *Course restrictions apply during high water 💰 Forest environment improvement promotion contribution: 500 yen for high school students and above #Domestic trip #Shiratani Unsuikyo #Yakushima

This time we will introduce Taiko Rock, located in Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, a famous spot for moss called Moss Forest. 🪨 When you hit the rock, the sound reverberates and sounds like a drum, which is why it was named "Taiko Rock." 　 This Taiko Rock is a huge granite rock located at the very back of Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, about 2.8 km from the Shiratani entrance and at an altitude of 1,050 m, and you can enjoy different views depending on the season. If the weather is good, you can see the mountains of Yakushima, including Miyanoura-dake, Nagata-dake, Okina-dake, and Tachu-dake, from the summit. Especially in spring, you can enjoy beautiful views of mountain cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and green cedars. 📍 Miyanoura, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 🚗 About 22 minutes by car from Miyanoura, about 45 minutes from Awa ⏰ All year round (Management building 8:30-16:30) 💰 Forest environment improvement promotion contribution: 500 yen for high school students and above #Domestic trip #Shiratani Unsuikyo #Taiko Rock

This time we will introduce Yakushima 🌲 Many people want to visit Yakushima at least once! The cedars you can see here are dynamic and full of vitality 🌲 On the island, cedars that are over 1,000 years old are called Yakusugi, while young trees that are several hundred years old are called Kosugi. There are various theories about the age of the Jomon cedars on Yakushima, ranging from 2,000 years to 7,200 years, but if you visit here you can feel their history and grandeur. Also, if you go inside the Wilson Stump and look up, it looks like a heart, which is very appealing 💚 If you go to Yakushima, be sure to check it out! Yakushima Jomon Cedar 📍 Along the Ohkabu Trail, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture 🚗 About 40 minutes from Miyanoura Port to Yakusugi Nature Museum, about 20 minutes from Yakushima Airport to Yakusugi Nature Museum, transfer to the Arakawa Mountain Climbing Bus in front of Yakusugi Nature Museum 🚌 ⚠️ From March to November, cars are not allowed at the Arakawa Trailhead, the starting point for Jomon Cedar, and only mountain buses and taxis are allowed 💰 Entrance fee 1000 yen #DomesticTrip #Yakushima #Yakusugi #JomonCedar

The charming Yakushima Karin with its wood-themed interior 🏡 This shop offers products made from Yakushima-grown fruits and vegetables 🍊 They use safe ingredients without additives or preservatives ✨ The store also had original jams and baked goods! Tankans Smoothie ¥650 It was refreshing and delicious! I would love to visit again when I come back ♡ 📍Location: 672-1 Onoaida, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima 🕰️Business hours: 10:00~17:15 Closed on Sundays and Mondays 💰Price per person: ¥1,000