Planning a solo trip to Yakushima, Japan? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:
QUICK FACTS
- Yakushima is an island located south of Kyushu, Japan, and is part of Kagoshima Prefecture. The island has a population of approximately 13,000.
- Famous for its ancient cedar forests, some trees are over 1,000 years old and contribute to the island being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The island is known for its subtropical climate, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity, including the endangered Yakushima macaque.
- Nickname: The Island of Eternal Rain, due to its high annual rainfall.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY).
- Spoken Languages: Japanese, with some English spoken in tourist areas.
- Best time to visit: October to November for pleasant temperatures and autumn foliage. The rainy season extends from May to June.
– Pack quick-dry layers and waterproof hiking boots. - Arriving via airport: Yakushima Airport (KUM) offers flights from major cities like Kagoshima and Fukuoka. The airport is about a 10-minute drive from the main town (Anbo).
– Airport buses cost around ¥500.
– Flights from Osaka/Fukuoka to Yakushima cost ¥25,000–¥35,000 round-trip, making ferries more budget-friendly for solo travelers. - High-speed ferries (Jetfoil) from Kagoshima to Yakushima take 1h50m–3h, costing ¥7,800–¥12,200 one-way.
– Overnight ferries (18:00–07:00) are cheaper at ¥3,600 one-way but require sleeping on board.
– Tip: Most ferries cannot be booked online. Purchase tickets at Kagoshima’s Minami-futo Wharf or via Lawson convenience store LOPPI machines (Japanese-only interface).
WHERE TO STAY
- Anbo is the main town with various accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to hotels; it’s a convenient base for exploring the island.
- Miyanoura, located near Miyanoura Port, offers closer access to the hiking trails and offers a few more luxurious stay options.
- Yakushima National Park area features eco-lodges and traditional ryokans surrounded by nature, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
GETTING AROUND
- The island has a limited bus network connecting major towns and trailheads. A single ticket typically costs around ¥600, depending on the distance.
- The Arakawa Trailhead Shuttle (Mar–Nov) costs ¥1,500 round-trip from Yakusugi Museum. Departs 5:20 AM – returns 4:30 PM.
- Car rentals are great for accessing remote trails like Nagata Beach. Prices start at ¥6,000/day (compact car). International Driving Permits are required.
- Motorbike rentals: a fun alternative for coastal exploration. Rentals from ¥3,000/day (scooter).
- Taxis are available but can be expensive; starting fares are around ¥600 with ¥280 per additional kilometer.
- Save on transport: use the 3-day bus pass (¥3,000) for coastal routes. Skip taxis – they cost ¥7,000 one-way to trailheads.
YAKUSHIMA NIGHTLIFE
- Nightlife is low-key on Yakushima, centered mainly around izakayas (Japanese pubs) and small restaurants.
- Anbo has a few bars where you can enjoy local beverages and some eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- Mameya offers shochu tastings (¥500–¥800/shot).
UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT
- Shiratani Unsui Gorge is renowned for its picturesque scenery and ancient cedar trees known as yakusugi. It offers multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty.
- Yakusugi Land features more extensive hiking options and allows visitors to see some of Yakushima’s oldest cedar trees.
- Jomon Sugi, located deep in the forest, is estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old, making it one of the oldest trees in the world.
YAKUSHIMA HIKING TRAILS
- Mt. Miyanouradake Summit Hike: 8–10-hour challenging trek. Requires waterproof gear and fitness.
– Guided tours (e.g., Yakushima Life) cost ¥16,000, including meals and transport. - Nagata Trail (N1): Rugged coastal hike with sea turtle nesting views (May–July). Rarely crowded.
- Hike the 5.6 km trail in Shiratani Unsui Gorge to see the ancient cedars and lush rainforest.
– Shiratani Unsuikyo Extended Route: Combine the Taiko Iwa rock formation loop (+3 hours) for panoramic views. - A more challenging hike to Jomon Sugi (approximately 10 km one way) offers stunning landscapes but requires a good level of fitness and preparation.
- Explore the coastal area at Nagata Inakahama Beach, a serene spot to enjoy the ocean view and potentially spot sea turtles nesting (at dusk, May–July). Volunteer-led tours available (donation-based).
- Affordable group hikes start at ¥5,000/half-day (e.g., Shiratani Gorge). Private Jomon Sugi tours cost ¥30,000/day.
- Tip: A-Coop (east side) sells pre-made meals (¥600–¥1,200) for hikes. Drugstore Mori has affordable toiletries.
WHERE TO EAT
- Local dishes to try:
– Saba mackerel: Grilled with local sea salt.
– Yakushima venison (ikaniku): Lean, sustainably hunted.
– Tankan oranges: Unique citrus grown on the island
– Anago (conger eel)
– Many dishes feature the local sweet potato. - Izakaya pick: Shitogo’s Kitchen (Anbo) serves fresh sashimi platters for ¥2,500.
- Super cheap eats: 7-Eleven bento boxes (¥500) or A-Coop sushi platters (¥1,000) for hikes.
LOCAL WISDOM
- Tipping is not customary in Japan; a polite bow of thanks will be appreciated instead.
- The island’s weather can change rapidly; always carry waterproof gear if you plan to hike.
- Visit the Hanii Gama Pottery Studio (Anbo). Handcrafted ceramics from ¥2,000. Call ahead for workshops.
- Onsen picks: Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen (tide-dependent; free) and Yudomari Onsen (¥300 entry) are local favorites. Perfect after a long day of hiking!
- On weekends, some bus services may run less frequently, so check schedules in advance.
- Be cautious of the local wildlife, especially as you hike; while many animals are friendly, it’s best to keep a safe distance.
- Dangerous areas: none. While Yakushima is relatively safe, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking alone.
Recommended trip duration: 4–5 days ideal for hiking Jomon Sugi, Shiratani Gorge, and coastal exploration. Add 1–2 days for Mt. Miyanouradake or kayaking.