Yakushima National Park is a stunning natural gem located in the southern part of Japan's Kyushu Island. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its lush green forests, crystal clear rivers, and abundant wildlife. The park is home to some of the oldest living trees in the world, including the famous Jomon Sugi, a cedar tree estimated to be over 7,000 years old. With so much to explore, here are 10 of the best things to do in Yakushima National Park.
1. Hike the Jomon Sugi Trail
The Jomon Sugi Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, winding through the ancient cedar forest and leading to the Jomon Sugi, the oldest living tree in the world. The hike is a moderate to difficult trail, with an elevation gain of about 1,300 meters (4,265 feet). It takes about 6-8 hours to complete the roundtrip hike, but the stunning views and ancient trees are worth the effort.
2. Explore the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine
The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a breathtaking valley filled with moss-covered trees, waterfalls, and crystal clear rivers. It is a popular spot for day hikes and nature walks, with trails ranging from easy to difficult. The ravine is also a popular spot for photography, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Climb Mount Miyanoura
Mount Miyanoura is the highest peak in the park, and a popular spot for climbing and mountaineering. The climb is a moderate to difficult hike, and takes about 4-5 hours to reach the summit. The views from the summit are spectacular, with the lush green forests stretching out in all directions.
4. Visit the Yakusugi Land Museum
The Yakusugi Land Museum is a great place to learn about the history and ecology of Yakushima National Park. The museum features interactive displays and exhibits, as well as a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
5. Kayak or Canoe in the Rivers
The rivers of Yakushima National Park are perfect for kayaking or canoeing. The crystal clear waters are calm and peaceful, and offer a great way to explore the park. There are several rental companies that offer kayak and canoe rentals, and guided tours are also available.
6. Visit the Yakusugi Shrine
The Yakusugi Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in the park, dedicated to the gods of the cedar trees. The shrine is surrounded by ancient cedar trees, and offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
7. Enjoy the Onsen Hot Springs
Yakushima National Park is home to several hot springs, known as onsens. The hot springs are a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the park. There are several onsens located in the park, some of which are free to use.
8. Take a Boat Tour
The best way to explore the park is by taking a boat tour. The tours offer stunning views of the park, and you can get up close and personal with the wildlife. There are several boat tour companies that offer tours of the park, and some of them also offer whale watching tours.
9. Go Camping
Camping is a great way to experience the park, and there are several campsites located throughout the park. The campsites are well maintained, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
10. Visit the Yakushima World Heritage Centre
The Yakushima World Heritage Centre is a great place to learn about the history and ecology of the park. The centre offers interactive displays and exhibits, as well as a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs. The centre is open year round, and admission is free.
Yakushima National Park is a stunning natural gem, filled with lush green forests, crystal clear rivers, and abundant wildlife. With so much to explore, these 10 activities are just a few of the many things to do in the park. Whether you are looking for a relaxing nature walk, a challenging hike, or an educational experience, Yakushima National Park has something for everyone.