Yakushima is an island in Japan's southern archipelago. In 1993 it became Japan's first UNESCO world nature heritage site because of its Yakusugi cedar trees. These gigantic trees are often more than 1000 years old (up to 3000 years of age).
The large amount of rain fall together with the high peaks, the warm sub tropical weather during the summer and harsh winters have created a unique natural environment.
Yakushima is also known for its onsens (Japanese natural hot springs) that are found right by the sea. Some hot springs can be used at anytime of the day but others only at low tide. During high tide they are completely covered by the sea. It was an amazing experience to relax in these hot springs while the waves from the ocean came crashing in.
Despite the weather we were still able to enjoy long hikes among the cedar trees. After hiking for five hours through the pouring rain it was an amazing feeling to warm up and relax our tired muscles in the onsens.
Again we had chosen an accommodation in the lower price range. Lonely Planet's review of the place was simply "rough and ready". The review was very accurate but this time cheap and simple turned out to be a very good option.
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| Yakoshima ferry |
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| Rough and ready hostel |
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| Enjoying Japanese onsen |
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| Yakoshima coast line |
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