Off the southern coast of Kyushu is the island of Yakushima, where the dewy climate and national parks create a unique mystical landscape.

Yakushima does representative of all the biomes in Japan, with Okinawa like tree ferns, banyan trees, mangroves and a sub-artic climate similar to Hokkaido in mountains. 

Wandering through the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine feels like a scene from a film. These are some of the oldest trees in Japan, scattered across lush groves, crawling ravines and vibrant mossy stones. It’s no wonder this forest inspired the Japanese favourite anime, Princess Mononoke.

The island attracts hiking enthusiasts with its lush forested wilderness areas and impressive mountainous interior. Yakushima is best known for its extensive ancient cedar forests, which feature some of Japan’s oldest living trees including the famous Jomonsugi cedar, estimated to be between 2000 and 7200 years old. To see this ancient marvel, travellers can hike the Miyanoura Trail, which boasts an extensive network of paths, as well as conveniently located overnight huts.

Our journey to Yakushima is best combined with a trip in mainland Kyushu. You can either fly or take the ferry to Yakushima. Our preferred method is the ferry, which leaves from Kagoshima, with views of Sakurajima Volcano, before heading out into Kagoshima Bay and across to Yakushima.