Kyushu and Okinawa
Yakushima(Island) National Park
BUD international
Activity
Yakushima Sightseeing One-day Bus Tour "Yakuzaru-go" with Lunch
Highlights
・Visit the highlights of Yakushima, such as Yakusugi Land, the Seibu Rindo Forest Path, and Inakahama Beach listed on Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. ・For lunch, enjoy a bento box featuring flying fish. ・Might encounter Yakushima's endemic species, such as the Yaku monkey and Yaku deer.
Detail
The convenient island sightseeing bus "Yakuzaru-go" on Yakushima takes you to places such as the natural park "Yakusugi Land" located at an altitude of 1,000 meters and "Oko-no-Taki Waterfall," which is selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls. For lunch, please enjoy the specialty flying fish dishes.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 7.5 - 9.5 hours
Transportation Available (Board from major areas)
Meal Included
Yakushima Sightseeing Half-day Bus Tour "Yakuzaru-go" Morning Course
Highlights
・A quick and easy island tour in the morning ・Visit Yakushima's proud natural wonders such as Senpiro-no-taki Waterfall, Oko-no-taki Waterfall, and the Seibu Rindo Forest Path. ・Recommended for those departing the island in the afternoon.
Detail
A half-day sightseeing bus tour on the "Yakuzaru-go" allows you to easily explore the island. The tour takes you to 4-5 spots, including "Oko-no-taki Waterfall," which is selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, and the Nakama Banyan Tree, famous as a tree where spirits reside.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 3.5 - 5 hours
Transportation Available (Board from major areas)
Meal Not included
Yakushima Sightseeing Half-day Bus Tour "Yakuzaru-go" Afternoon Course
Highlights
・Boarding from the Yakushima Airport or Anbo Port. ・Recommended for sightseeing in the afternoon on the day of arrival at Yakushima. ・Be soothed by the forest of Yakushima at the natural recreation forest "Yakusugi Land".
Detail
This bus tour takes you to natural recreation forest "Yakusugi Land," located at an altitude of 1000 meters, and the ancient tree "Kigensugi," which is estimated to be 3000 years old. This is a half-day sightseeing bus tour where you can receive the natural power from the Yakusugi and its forest.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 3.5 - 5 hours
Transportation Available (Board from major areas)
Meal Not Included
Shiratani Unsuikyo One-day Trekking Tour (Up to Taikoiwa) Including Lunch Box
Highlights
・A must visit place when you come to Yakushima. ・Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view from the summit of Taikoiwa on a clear day. ・For lunch, enjoy a lunch box from a local bento shop.
Detail
The forest of Yakushima, registered as a World Natural Heritage site. In this tour, you will aim for the summit of Taikoiwa while fully experiencing the Yakusugi cedar trees and moss. There is no doubt that you will be healed by the majestic nature of Yakushima.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 6 hours
Transportation Available (Limited area only)
Meal Included
Yakushima Jomon Sugi Guided Trekking Tour with Hotel Pickup
Highlights
This guided trekking tour offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Yakushima's ancient forest to see the magnificent Jomon Sugi, the island's most famous cedar tree. A key highlight is the expertise of the local guides who will lead you safely through the trail, sharing their knowledge of the forest and its history. The tour also offers the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, and an "All-in-One Gear Plan" that makes preparing for the trek effortless.
Detail
Designed for a full-day adventure, this tour provides round-trip transportation to the Arakawa trailhead. You'll trek past a series of stunning natural landmarks, including the Kosugidani Village Ruins, Wilson's Stump, and Daiō Sugi, before reaching your ultimate destination. The tour is available daily, ensuring flexibility for your travel plans. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, this tour offers a safe, comprehensive, and deeply rewarding way to experience the magical and ancient beauty of Yakushima.
Summary
Location Yakushima / Kagoshima
Required time 12 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
Kuromidake One-Day Trekking Tour ＜Lunch Included＞
Highlights
This guided trekking tour offers an exhilarating challenge to climb Kuromidake, one of Yakushima's Seven Mountains. A key highlight is the breathtaking 360° panorama from the summit, where you can see the stunning inner mountains, including Miyanouradake. The tour is also a great option for beginners, providing an opportunity to experience a proper mountain trek with the safety and knowledge of an experienced local guide.
Detail
Designed as a full-day adventure, this tour is available daily and includes a convenient pick-up service from your hotel in the Miyanoura-Anbo area. The trek is approximately 10km and takes about 7-8 hours, with a physical level rated 3/5. You'll be provided with a lunch box and insurance is included. The tour offers a dynamic landscape, from changing vegetation as you ascend to sections near the summit that require using a rope. This is a perfect tour for those who want a rewarding physical challenge and a spectacular view of Yakushima's beautiful mountains.
Summary
Location Yakushima / Kagoshima
Required time 8 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Yakushima Half-Day Shiratani Unsuikyo Trekking Tour to Mossy Forest
Highlights
This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to trek through the lush and mystical Shiratani Unsuikyo forest, famously known as the inspiration for the film Princess Mononoke. A key highlight is exploring this enchanting mossy landscape with a knowledgeable local guide, making it an ideal choice for beginners and casual hikers. The option to rent a full gear set means you can travel light and still be perfectly prepared for this magical half-day adventure.
Detail
Designed for a seamless and memorable experience, this half-day tour includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation in the Miyanoura-Anbo area to the Shiratani Unsuikyo Entrance. You can choose a morning or afternoon departure, and the total duration is approximately 3.5 to 6 hours. While the tour is conducted in Japanese only, it provides travel accident insurance for your peace of mind. Please note that there is a separate ¥500 conservation fee to enter the area. This tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere of Yakushima's ancient forest.
Summary
Location Yakushima / Kagoshima
Required time 3.5 - 6 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
2-Day Private Trekking Tour: Jomon Sugi & Shiratani Unsuikyo (Moss Forest & Taikoiwa Rock)
Highlights
Experience two of Yakushima’s most iconic natural treasures: the ancient Jomon Sugi cedar and the mystical moss forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo, including breathtaking views from Taikoiwa Rock. Trek through verdant forest paths, cross suspension bridges, and see legendary cedar giants like Sandai Sugi and Wilson Stump. This tour offers unforgettable scenery and a deep immersion into one of Japan’s most beautiful wildernesses.
Detail
This 2‑day private trekking tour runs daily, with early morning pick‑ups from accommodations in the Miyanoura‑Anbo area. On Day 1, hike the old railway path through forest to reach Jomon Sugi, passing ancient cedars and forest landmarks over ~11 hours. Day 2 brings a walk through Shiratani Unsuikyo: moss forests, the Satsuki suspension bridge, Tsuji Pass, and Taikoiwa Rock, finishing in mid‑day. The tour includes pick‑up & drop‑off, liability insurance, and requires good physical fitness.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 2 days
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal None
One-day Island Sightseeing Tour 【Lunch Included】
Highlights
Drive around Yakushima in comfort and discover its scenic wonders without strenuous hiking. Visit several of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls — Senpiro Falls, Toroki Falls, and Okawa Falls — plus the Western Forest Road in the World Heritage area. You might also spot Yakushika deer and Yakuzaru monkeys. Lunch is included, making this an easy, full‑day escape to admire nature’s diversity.
Detail
This full‑day sightseeing tour runs daily with morning pickups (between 4:00 and 9:00) from the Miyanoura‑Anbo area. You’ll visit iconic natural sites across Yakushima by car, enjoying the beauty of waterfalls, forest roads and remote spots. The tour cost covers a boxed lunch and insurance. You’ll return to the Miyanoura‑Anbo area by late afternoon. Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Summary
Location Yakushima
Required time 8-9 hours
Transportation Pick-up and drop-off available (conditions apply)
Meal Yes
Access
How to get there
Yakushima (Island) National Park is renowned for its majestic cedar forests that contain many trees over 1,000 years old. The park sits on an island in southern Kagoshima Prefecture in Kyushu and is accessible by plane or boat. Two bus companies provide infrequent service in the park, but renting a car will make getting around more convenient.
From Tokyo
Fly from Haneda Airport to Kagoshima Airport (2 hr) then change flights to Yakushima Airport (40 min). Once you’ve arrived, it’s most convenient to rent a car from a company near the airport. If you prefer public transportation, take a bus to the stop closest to your destination. The bus companies on the island are Tanegashima-Yakushima Kotsu and Matsubanda Kotsu.
From Kagoshima City
Fly from Kagoshima Airport to Yakushima Airport (40 min) or take a boat, such as a high-speed boat from Kagoshima Port to Miyanoura or Anbo Port on Yakushima (2-3 hr) or a slower car ferry from Kagoshima Port to Miyanoura Port (4 hr). Once you’ve arrived, the best option is to rent a car from a company near the airport or Miyanoura Port. The bus companies on the island are Tanegashima-Yakushima Kotsu and Matsubanda Kotsu.
Getting Around
The road encircling the Yakushima coast is dotted with hotels, hot springs and other tourism-related facilities. The land is especially developed around the two seaports and the airport, and all three locations have numerous car rental companies. Yakushima’s famous forests are located inland from the coastal areas. Two bus companies, Tanegashima Yakushima Kotsu and Matsubanda Kotsu, offer infrequent service to the interior. Renting a car is the fastest and more convenient option for exploring the forests. The one exception is the Arakawa Trailhead, which leads to Jomonsugi, said to be the oldest tree in Japan. From March to November, the trailhead can only be accessed using a shuttle bus that departs from Yakusugi Museum (35 min). Joining guided hikes presents an excellent alternative to renting a car since many of the walks include a pickup service.
