Yakushima Travel Tips

Yakushima (屋久島) is a stunning subtropical island off the southern coast of Kyushu, part of Kagoshima Prefecture. Renowned for its ancient cedar forests, Yakushima is home to the famous yakusugi, trees over 1,000 years old, with some even reaching ages of 7,000 years. Once heavily logged for cedar shingles, these majestic forests have since flourished, becoming a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. Visitors flock to Yakushima for its breathtaking hiking trails, allowing them to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the mountainous landscapes.

With nearly 2,000-meter-high peaks, Yakushima experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, earning the playful saying that it rains "35 days a month." While this may be an exaggeration, visitors can expect frequent light showers, especially in the lush mountainous areas. The island's unique climate supports diverse ecosystems, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Explore the enchanting trails of Yakushima, where ancient trees whisper stories of time, and every corner reveals the island's captivating beauty.