Yakushima

Overview

Yakushima is an island lying about 60 kilometers south-southwest of Cape Sata on the Osumi Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture, belonging to the town of Yakushima in Kumage District. Together with nearby islands such as Tanegashima and Kuchinoerabujima, it forms the Osumi Islands. It is home to Miyanouradake (1,936 m), the highest peak in Kyushu, and its rich natural environment forms the core of Yakushima National Park while being registered as a World Natural Heritage Site.

Highlights

• ●A mountainous landscape crowned by Miyanouradake (1,936 m), the highest peak in Kyushu
• ●A rich natural environment registered as a World Natural Heritage Site
• ●Protected forests forming the core of Yakushima National Park
• ●A setting among the Osumi Islands, close to Tanegashima and Kuchinoerabujima

History

The island has long been known as a forest-covered island, and the state of preservation of its natural environment has been recognized. It is registered as a World Natural Heritage Site and is also designated as a Ramsar site and a Wilderness Area, among other protections. Administratively it belongs to the town of Yakushima in Kumage District, and a substantial part of the island lies within Yakushima National Park.

Map

30.3586, 130.5286 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Begin the route from the town that serves as the island's gateway
2. 2Head into the forest zone that forms the core of Yakushima National Park
3. 3Take in the natural scenery of the mountain area overlooking Miyanouradake
4. 4Return to a coastal settlement to round off a circuit of the island

Did you know?

💡 The island covers an area of about 504 square kilometers.

Nearby spots