Yakusugi Land — Attraction in Yakushima

Awesome hike in Yakusugi Land! Tip: go to Shiratani first and get the 200 yen discount coupon. Our entrance was only 300 JPY per person after the discount. In the beginning (30,50 min routes) there are very easy walkways and we opted for the 150 min route. It wasn't too challenging for a moderate day hikers. I would say it's beginner/medium level. It has been hit by some landslides so there are some areas that require a little climbing but nothing that will require you to turn back. The views are amazing, lots of old trees including a 2600 year old tree. The moss growing on the trees are wonderful and very different from Shiratani. We went on a cloudy/sunny day with minimal rain so that made the hike dryer and easier I think. Don't miss! Also, kigensugi is a 20 min drive further down Yakusugi land. It's a 3000 year old huge tree that you must not miss either! The only toilet in Yakusugi land is outside the entrance which closes with the shop at 16:20. There are extremely clean portable toilets if the shop is closed right there as well. Inside the trail there is a toilet "booth" (see picture) with a seat only, you got to bring you own carry-on toilet (buy at tokyu hands or...

There are 4 hikes available of varying difficulty, which all start and end together (so if you do the longest hike, you'll have seen everything in the shortest hike, too). •30-minute course is easiest. Some people were even wearing street shoes. This walk is doable for those who can climb stairs. •50-minute course is a bit of a step up, but still not terrible. Could be good for beginner hikers. Would recommend proper sneakers at the very least, hiking boots even better. •80-minute course is where it steps up. There is lots of rock or roots walking, and at least 1 time I had to crouch very low under a tree. As far as physical difficulty, I didn't get very winded the entire time, the big challenge here is your footing. Not recommended for those who have never hiked before if you're alone, but would be okay for casual hikers. •The last, longest course takes around 4 hours. I didn't do this one, so please see the other reviews. 🪙You get a discount if you show them your Yakushima Island bus pass, or the admission ticket from Shiratani Unsuikyo. 🚻The visitor's center has outhouses and inside toilets, a small gift shop, and a large rest area with English displays on...

The nature is 5 stars, and if you're on Yakushima you should definitely go. If you haven't done your research then at least be aware that the island is a temperate rainforest and it's probably going to be wet, so wear appropriate attire.

None of the trails are wheelchair accessible, though a couple of them are pretty easy and could be walked with any good walking shoes. To really enjoy the park I'd recommend the longer trails which are a more moderate difficulty and should be met with solid hiking shoes.

The buses are far from frequent and Yakusugiland museum is not within reasonable walking distance. After finishing one of the longer hikes we were back at the rest area where it was still 2 hours until the next bus. There's nothing to do at the rest area, and the upstairs seating isn't exactly...