ITINERARY

​

Day 1 ~ Arrival in Yakushima

Yakushima is a subtropical island located in the southern area of Kyushu. Thanks to its geography and natural beauty, the island is a real paradise for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. Ghibli fans will recognise it as the forest that inspired the animated film “Princess Mononoke.”

​

Take note when landing at the airport (or approaching Yakushima port by ferry), this tiny island is covered by an extensive cedar forest. Its giant trees, some of which are thousands of years old, are an impressive sight and contribute to creating a magical and mysterious atmosphere.

​

Fully included in a protected National Park area, Yakushima has been declared a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site and constitutes a unique area of almost completely untouched nature and wilderness in Japan.

​

After arriving to either the airport or the port, our guide will provide transport to the hotel for check in.

​

Enjoy the remainder of the day free at leisure.

​

JR Hotel Yakushima – Standard Room (D)

​

Day 2 ~ Yakushima, mountain trekking

Day 2 marks a whole day trekking in Mt. Kuromidake alongside an English-speaking guide. The 10-kilometre route can be covered in around 8 hours and is an easy-to-intermediate path suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. From the mountaintop there are great views of the island, its mountains, forests and coastlines.

​

During the hike, a few stops will be made to rest and enjoy the views. A longer break will be taken at the top of the mountain for lunch. Today’s lunch is a homemade bento (lunch box), prepared with tasty and healthy local products from the island.

​

Note: Expert hikers can request a more challenging track at no additional charge.

​

JR Hotel Yakushima – Standard Room (B, L, D)

​

Trekking information:

• Duration: 7-8 h

• Distance: 10 km

• Altitude: 1370-1831 m

​

Day 3: Yakushima, forest trekking

Another day of hiking accompanied by an English-speaking guide awaits. However this time, instead of climbing the island’s mountains, follow the paths inside Yakushima’s dense forests.

​

Although less physically demanding, the scenery is just as impressive. The island’s enormous old trees, often covered in green moss, offer an unusual and unique view.

​

During today’s trek, hikers will pass by the famous cedar trees Buddha sugi, which is 1,800 years old, and Yamato sugi, which is 3,000 years old.

​

Again, stop for lunch to enjoy another delicious homemade bento.

​

The guide will provide hotel drop-off in the late afternoon.

​

JR Hotel Yakushima – Standard Room. (B, L, D)

​

Trekking information:

• Duration: 7-8 h

• Distance: 8 km

• Altitude: 1000-1200 m

​

Day 4 ~ Yakushima, kayaking; Departure

Before leaving Yakushima this afternoon, there will still be time for some exciting activities and to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

​

This morning, alongside the local guide, visit the Anbo River for a few hours of river kayaking. This very calm, wide river is an easy and safe challenge even for complete beginners.

​

Enjoy the beautiful views of the island from the river and look out for monkeys on the shore as well as turtles swimming in the river.

​

After a last bento lunch, head back to Yakushima airport or port to continue the next journey. (B, L)

​

END OF TRIP

​

(Code: B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner)

​

LAND COST FROM:  $1,960 per person

​

 

Please note all rates are subject to change according to rate of exchange fluctuations.

​

For a more detailed or customized itinerary, optional extensions and activities, please call or email us.