Understand

Yakushima, a small and nearly round mountainous island with a circumference of 135 kilometers, is a natural wonder in Japan. Its exceptional climate and steep terrain make it an isolated and breathtaking destination. With its rocky coastline, verdant mountains, and stunning sunrises and sunsets over the Pacific, Yakushima offers a mesmerizing landscape. The island's forests, although not virgin, are filled with ancient trees, including some over 1000 years old known as "yakusugi." These majestic cedar trees, along with the pristine forests, were an inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke. Yakushima's remoteness and challenging terrain keep the number of tourists relatively low, allowing for a tranquil hiking experience along the well-maintained trails. It's crucial for visitors to leave no waste behind and keep the island's natural beauty intact. Wildlife thrives on the island, with a large deer and monkey population roaming freely. While observing these creatures, it is important to keep a safe distance and not feed them. The few bilingual information signs and helpful tourist information centers cater to the needs of visitors, ensuring an enjoyable experience.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing