Guide to Yakushima, Japan's Forest Wonderland

In the south of Kyushu, lies an island of Japan that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fantasy novel. It’s called Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Japan’s forested wonderland – a place where ancient cedar towers over moss-covered landscapes, and the line between reality and magic seems to blur. Join us as we explore everything this stunning island and its magical forest has to offer.

The heart of Yakushima’s allure is its primeval forests, home to cedar trees that have stood for thousands of years. The most famous of these is Jomon Sugi, believed to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old. These majestic trees create an otherworldly atmosphere that inspired the enchanted forests in Studio Ghibli’s acclaimed film Princess Mononoke.

Yakushima offers a network of hiking trails catering to casual and serious trekkers. The Shiratani Unsuikyo area is a popular choice, often called the "Princess Mononoke Trail" as it is said that this area inspired parts of the film. For the more adventurous, the challenging trek to Jomon Sugi offers an unforgettable journey through the island's diverse ecosystems.  Dotting these trails are stunning waterfalls, including 288 foot (88 meter) Ohko Waterfall, and crystal-clear rivers that slice and weave through the verdant landscape.

*At the time of writing, Shiratani Unsuikyo and other parts of Yakushima are closed off due to typhoon damages

Yakushima Island is a sanctuary for native wildlife. Yakushima macaques and deer are often spotted along hiking trails, seemingly unfazed by human presence. This island is also home to numerous rare plants and species, as well as conservation programs that are determined to keep the ecosystem intact.

While Yakushima is most famous for its forests, its coastlines are not to be skipped. The island’s beaches serve as nesting sites for endangered loggerhead turtles. From May to August, visitors can witness the incredible sight of turtles laying eggs under the moonlight through guided tours that ensure minimal disturbance.

Yakushima’s subtropical climate means it can be visited year-round, but bring an umbrella or rain poncho as it does experience high rainfall. Late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and lower rainfall.

Yakushima is accessible by ferry and plane from Kagoshima City, the capital city of Kagoshima Prefecture.

For those opting for the scenic ferry route, you can board at Kagoshima Port. There are two main types of ferries to consider:

Option 1: The fast hydrofoil ferry, known as the “Toppy”, or “Rocket”, takes about two hours to reach Yakushima.

Option 2: The larger, slower car ferry, which takes about four hours but offers a more economical option.

Both ferries operate multiple times daily, with services to either Miyanoura Port or Anbo Port on Yakushima, depending on your schedule.

For those preferring to fly, there are flights from Kagoshima to Yakushima Airport, with a flight time of about 40 minutes.

Once on the island, rental cars are available at both the airports and major ports. There’s also a public bus system that circles the island.

If you’re looking for top accommodations in Yakushima, look no further than Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, a luxury hotel that blends seamlessly into its lush surroundings. Nestled in the forest with ocean views, the resort comprises just 29-villas, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience. Each villa features expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the Yakushima’s lush forest or the azure sea.

The hotel’s fine dining establishment, Okas, is a culinary destination in its own right. Here, the chef crafts exquisite French-inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can either sit in front of the chef and engage in conversation or opt for tables overlooking the ocean for a romantic night out.

The Sankara Spa takes relaxation to another level, offering treatments that incorporate the essence of Yakushima itself. Skilled therapist will relax tired muscles with stretching and shiatsu treatments after a day out hiking Yakushima’s enchanted forests.

Despite its luxury status, the Sankara Hotel and Spa is strongly committed to sustainability. The hotel boasts several initiatives and charities designed to conserve and protect the local township of Yakushima and the island's wider flora and fauna ecosystems.

While the Sankara Hotel and Spa’s rates reflect its luxury status, many guests find the experience – with its blend of high-end amenities, personalized service, and unparalleled natural setting – well worth the splurge. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a truly special experience in Yakushima, whether for a honeymoon, a special occasion, or a luxurious escape into some of Japan’s oldest and untouched environments.