Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage island off the southern tip of Kyushu, is famous for its ancient cedar forests — trees over 7,000 years old draped in moss and mist. Less known is the island’s wild and dramatic coastline, where rivers of clear mountain water run directly onto beaches of dark volcanic sand and crystalline sea.
Key Beaches
Isso Beach on the north coast is the island’s main swimming beach — sheltered, with clear water and a mountainous backdrop. Nagata Inakahama Beach on the northwest coast is famous as the most important loggerhead sea turtle nesting site in East Asia. Hundreds of turtles come ashore to nest each summer between May and July — watching them under the stars is one of Japan’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
Best Time to Visit
May to September for beach swimming and sea turtle nesting. The forest is at its most atmospheric in the rainy season from May to July when waterfalls are at full flow and the ancient cedars are surrounded by mist.
Access
Flights from Kagoshima to Yakushima Airport (35 minutes) or ferry from Kagoshima Port (2 to 4 hours). A rental car is essential — the island perimeter road is 100km and the forest interior roads are narrow and mountainous.
