Remember those whimsical childhood dreams? Wanting to be a fairy, wielding a magical stick... or perhaps, the most enchanting of all, stepping into a mystical forest where ancient, majestic trees whisper secrets of centuries past. While we can't grant you wings or a wand, that last, breathtaking wish can become a reality as you step into Yakushima National Park in Japan.
Yakushima National Park is something you'll come across pretty instantly when looking for the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Japan. Imagine stepping into a world of ancient, dense cedar forests – we're talking trees like the legendary Jomon Sugi, a whopping 7,200 years old! And the landscapes? Absolutely breathtaking. Picture lush, mist-shrouded scenery that just begs you to wander and get wonderfully lost. Also, keep your eyes peeled for adorable fluffy Yaku macaques swinging through the branches and graceful Yaku deer peeking out from the foliage.
Looking for adventure? Hiking through those ancient woods or kayaking along the coast, or even diving into the crystal-clear waters for some snorkelling or scuba diving, Yakushima offers you all. So, whether you are an adventurous soul or looking for a peaceful escape in the lap of nature, a visit to Yakushima is totally worth it.
Here’s a quick list of the main must-see attractions in Yakushima National Park, Japan — the core highlights you can't afford to miss!
Jomon Sugi
As you search for the best spots to check out at the national park, Jomon Sugi is what you'll get on every Yakushima travel guide. It's that incredible. What exactly is it? One of the oldest and most sacred trees in Japan. It's estimated to be somewhere between 2,170 and a whopping 7,200 years old! Have you ever imagined standing in front of something that has witnessed the unfolding of millennia of history? Plus, its sheer size is mind-blowing too, with a trunk circumference of around 16 meters.
Honestly, just imagining its wrinkly arms reaching for the sky, like it's a living monument to time and toughness, is kinda freaky cool. Whether you're someone who feels a sense of awe in the face of ancient wonders or a nature lover craving profound beauty, Jomon Sugi is an unmissable spot for you. Just keep in mind that reaching it requires a strenuous 10-hour round-trip hike, so go only if you have a great fitness level or are an experienced hiker.
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Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine
Dreaming of escaping into a fairytale forest? Make your dream come true at Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, one of the most recommended Japanese nature destinations. It's the same place that served as the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. Just imagine mossy everything – rocks, trees, the ground – all in this super lush, vibrant green. Checking for different trails is a must here.
They've got everything from easy strolls to proper hikes, so, whether you are an adventure junkie or looking for some mild walks, it's equally amazing. And the views? These are mesmerising! – just pure, untouched beauty. You must also check the waterfall for some stunning shots! If you're tired of those strict schedules and seeking to immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity, this is your go-to spot.
Yakusugi Land
If you want to explore those centuries-old cedar trees without a strenuous hike or are looking for family-friendly walking courses, Yakusugi Land is the best place for hiking in Yakushima for you. It's a family-friendly forest park that features well-maintained trails that wind through ancient cedar forests, suitable for various fitness levels.
So, no worries about those heavy hikes; whether you go for a 30-minute stroll or a 3-hour hike, it's all up to you. As you enter here, you'll feel the fresh air, often carrying a subtle, earthy fragrance of cedar and damp moss. You can immerse yourself in a mystical atmosphere when sunlight filters softly through the dense canopy. The atmosphere here is one-of-a-kind that won't be found anywhere on Earth.
Anbo River Kayaking
If you plan to explore Yakushima's lush landscapes but hiking isn't your thing, Anbo River Kayaking is the most recommended thing for you in this Yakushima travel guide. It's a fantastic opportunity to soak in Yakushima's stunning natural beauty while relaxing instead of indulging in any tiring activity. The best part is that the Anbo River features calm, crystal-clear waters flowing through a lush, emerald-green valley, making it perfect for beginners and families. You can gently paddle upstream, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature and the best picture-postcard scenery of the forested riverbanks.
Guided tours are available, but you can also opt for self-guided tours if you feel like it. If you've come here in warmer months, don't forget to take a refreshing, cool dip in the river waters. Also, keep an eye on the river banks, if you're lucky enough, you'd get to see Yakushima macaques, Japanese weasels, loggerhead sea turtles and more. As Yakushima boasts a huge variety of wildlife, one of the reasons why Yakushima National Park secures a top place when it comes to eco tourism in Japan.
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Seibu Rindo Forest Path
If you're into wildlife and spotting wildlife is your primary concern, there's nothing better than Seibu Rindo Forest Path, one of the UNESCO Heritage Sites Japan is known for.
It’s a winding, mostly unpaved road that cuts through the remote, western part of Yakushima, offering a unique and wilder experience. The highlight? Here you'll get a much higher chance of encountering Japanese exotic wildlife. Whether you're looking for a fluffy and small Yaku monkey or waiting to see those adorable Yaku deer (caution: their eyes can leave you spellbound), you can easily find them relaxing along the roadside.
You can enjoy a slow drive or challenging bike ride along the unpaved road, and don't miss stopping at viewpoints and soaking in the pristine forest scenery and coastal vistas. Must keep in mind that feeding wild yaku-monkeys is strictly prohibited, and when you're observing these creatures, do not disturb them and keep your distance.
Natural Hot Springs (Onsen)
Obsessed with Japanese culture? Then, relaxing in Natural Hot Springs (Onsen) is a must-try for you, letting you experience a part of Japanese culture and interact with locals too. Plus, especially if you're tired after a long hike or just seeking a place to unwind, look no further than some amazing natural hot springs here. Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is one of the most popular options, it's a very special and rare undersea hot spring located on the southern coast.
Keep in mind that it's only accessible for about two hours before and after low tide, extremely time-sensitive. It's a mixed-gender bath with no changing rooms, and swimsuits are not allowed. A small donation (around ¥200) is appreciated for its maintenance by the local community. Not only this, Yakushima offers a plethora of hot springs from indoor to outdoor ones, with their own policies and specialities. Choose what suits you.