Yakushima
A rainy, mossy island of ancient cedars.
Why Japanese travelers love itThe moss forest and ancient cedars feel sacred, and reaching Jomon Sugi is a life goal for many hikers.
Yakushima is a round, mountainous island south of Kagoshima, covered in moss forest and giant cedars, some thousands of years old. It is a World Heritage site. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a moss-green ravine you can walk in a few hours. Jomon Sugi, the oldest cedar, is a long full-day hike. It rains a lot, so bring rain gear.
Best time: Spring and autumn for hiking. Expect rain in any season.
Weather
Average temperature, °C. JMA 1991–2020 normals (Yakushima (JMA)).
Top 5
- Shiratani UnsuikyoA moss forest ravine with marked trails.
- Jomon SugiThe oldest cedar, a long full-day hike.
- Yakusugi LandShorter forest walks among big cedars.
- Coastal hot springsSmall seaside baths around the island.
- WaterfallsRivers run full after the frequent rain.
A simple day
- Early bus or drive to Shiratani Unsuikyo.
- Hike the moss forest trails.
- Packed lunch on the trail.
- Coastal drive in the afternoon.
- Hot spring and early night.
Where to stay
- MiyanouraMain port with shops and buses.
- AnboCloser to the trailheads.
Getting there
Kagoshima → Yakushima: 2–3h by jetfoil, about 4h by car ferry, or about 40 min by air.
psst — skip this mistake: Hiking without rain gear or an early start. Weather changes fast and days are long.