Yakushima Island-Everything You Need to Know!

Yakushima Island is a small island located in the Seto Inland Sea and part of the Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. It has an area of and a population of around 2,000 people. The island is known for its natural environment, including its forests, lakes, hot springs, and beaches. The island is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Yakushima-Dejima Culture and Historic Site and the Yakushima-Jingūji Temple.

 

History

Yakushima Island is a small and isolated island located in Japan’s Kagoshima Prefecture. The island is noted for its natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs, valleys, and coral reefs. The first recorded sighting of the island was by Portuguese explorer Duarte Barbosa in 1543. Yakushima has been the subject of many scientific studies, and its many rare animals are protected by law.

Geography

Yakushima Island is located in the Seto Inland Sea, west of Kyushu. It has an area of and a population of around 2,000 people. The island is made up of several small islands connected by a series of bridges. dominate the landscape, with smaller cliffs and slopes providing habitat for rare animals such as the Japanese macaque and the Bakalar deer. There are also numerous lakes, hot springs, forests, and beaches.

Ecosystem

 

The ecosystem of Yakushima Island is a land-based biodiversity hotspot and a nationally designated nature reserve. The island is known for its abundant flora and fauna, which includes the world’s smallest deer, the giant ibis, and the Japanese serow. The ecosystem is also home to around 130 species of mammals, 248 species of birds, and 850 species of vascular plants.

Population

 

The demographics of Yakushima Island are relatively stable, with a population that has remained around 2,000 people for over 100 years. The island’s isolation and natural beauty have led to its popularity among tourists, who come to enjoy the island’s natural environment.

Economy

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the economy of Yakushima Island will vary depending on the specific industry and locale. However, overall, the economy of Yakushima Island is considered to be relatively stable and prosperous.

The tourism industry is one of the main pillars of the economy, and it continues to grow steadily year after year. In addition, other industries such as agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing are also doing well. Overall, the economy is healthy and stable, which has helped to keep prices low for consumers.

Climate

 

The climate of Yakushima Island is generally mild, with average annual temperatures ranging from 20 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius. The island experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, which averages around 820 mm per year.

Culture and Religion

The culture and religion of Yakushima Island is mostly influenced by the Shinto faith. The island is also home to a small Buddhist community, which has been present since the 1800s.

Languages

The predominant language on Yakushima Island is Japanese, but there are also a number of other languages spoken on the island. These include Kagama, an indigenous dialect of Kumamoto Prefecture; and Ainu, which is a member of the Japonic family.

Education

The education system on Yakushima Island is largely based on the Japanese curriculum, with a few local modifications. Most students attend schools in the Kagoshima Prefecture and Tokyo Metropolitan Area, but there are a small number of private schools that cater to children from Yakushima Island.

The economy of Yakushima Island is stable and prosperous, thanks in part to its tourism industry. Prices are generally low, making it an accessible destination for both visitors and locals. The island also has a small but thriving economy based on the traditional crafts and industries that have been passed down for generations.

Politics

As a foreigner, your opinion on Yakushima Island’s politics is of course irrelevant. Yakushima Island has a long and complicated history, and the politics of the island are just one small part of that. In general, the people of Yakushima are fiercely independent and fiercely protective of their culture and traditions. This can sometimes lead to conflicts with the mainland government, which is why it’s important to be aware of the local politics before making any decisions about visiting or living on Yakushima Island.

Government Services

There is no embassy or consulate in Yakushima Island, so you will need to contact the Japanese Embassy in your home country for assistance. Additionally, all of the government services that are available on the mainland are also available on Yakushima Island. This includes police forces, hospitals, and banks.

Tourism

Yakushima Island is a popular tourist destination, and you will likely have to deal with some form of tourism promotion when visiting the island. This can range from advertisements on television and in magazines, to brightly-colored posters plastered all over the town centers. It’s important to take advantage of these promotional opportunities, as they can help you get a good idea of what to expect while visiting Yakushima Island.

Hotels and Resorts List

Yakushima Island is a beautiful place to visit, and there are many hotels and resorts available to accommodate visitors. Here is a list of some of the most popular options:

1. The Yakushima Ryokan – This traditional Japanese inn is located on the eastern coast of the island and offers excellent views of the sunset. It also offers a variety of on-site activities, such as bird watching, fishing, and kayaking.
2. The Yakushima Onsen Resort – This facility is located in the town of Muko-jima and offers a variety of services, including onsen baths, Japanese cuisine, and beautiful views of the ocean. It also has a Jacuzzi and an outdoor pool.
3. The Yakushima Sengen Resort & Spa – This luxury resort offers excellent facilities for both relaxation and recreation, such as a spa, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a golf course, and more. It is also close to several attractions, such as Mount Sakurajima and Hiraizumi Onsen.
4. The Sayama Inn – This inn is located in Sayama City and offers a variety of services and amenities, such as rooms with views of the ocean or mountains, an onsen bath area with various types of baths, access to bicycles for exploring the island by bike, free WiFi throughout the property, and more.

Attractions

There are a variety of attractions available on Yakushima Island, including beautiful and photogenic scenery, traditional Japanese residences, delicious food locales, and historic sites. Some of the most popular destinations include:

1. Mount Sakurajima – This popular volcano is located on the southeastern coast of the island and offers stunning views from its observation decks. It is also home to several hot springs and restaurants.
2. Hiraizumi Onsen – This picturesque onsen town is located in the center of the island and offers a variety of baths, including hot springs, indoor and outdoor pools, traditional Japanese ryokan ( inns ), shops, and more.
3. Yaku-no-taki Beach – Located on the eastern coast of the island near Hiraizumi Onsen, this beach is known for its beautiful views of Mount Sakurajima. It is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing.
4. Kinkaku-ji – This famous Zen temple is located on the western coast of the island and offers beautiful scenery from its gardens and grounds. It is also home to a 51-meter tall Cosmo Clock built in 1252, one of Japan’s Ten Great Buddhist Statues, as well as other ancient structures.

Activities

There are a variety of activities available on Yakushima Island, including hiking, fishing, surfing, sailing, and golfing. Some of the most popular destinations for these activities include:

1. Takamatsu – Located in the north-central part of the island near Hiraizumi Onsen and Mount Sakurajima National Park (established in 1939), this small town is known for its arts and crafts scene as well as its history.

Transport

There are a few ways to transport Yakushima Island. One way is to take a ferry from Naha, Okinawa. Ferries depart every thirty minutes and the journey takes about forty minutes. Another way is by car. There are several rental agencies that offer cars and drives to the island. Driving to the island is not difficult, but it can be quite tiring because of the long drive and the winding roads.

Cuisine

Yakushima Island has a variety of local foods that vary depending on the location. Some of the most popular dishes include:

1. Yaku-no-taki – This is a type of rice bowl that is usually served with braised chicken or soy sauce-based soup. It can also be topped with vegetables, seaweed, and boiled egg.
2. Kamaage – This dish is made from grilled tofu that is skewered and served with a sweet and soy sauce-based dipping sauce.
3. Fushi – This is a type of fish cake that is made from rice, seaweed, and bean paste. It can be skewered and grilled or boiled in Shizuku vinegar.

Conclusion

Overall, Yakushima Island is a beautiful place to visit. Its diverse landscape and natural wonders are worth exploring, and its people are warm and welcoming. The island definitely has its quirks, but overall it is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. If you’re looking for a serene getaway that’s also close to some of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, Yakushima Island is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

How Many Flights Are There To Naha From Tokyo?

There are about ten flights a day to Naha from Tokyo.

What Is The Least Expensive Way To Get To Yakushima Island From Naha?

There are a few ways that you can get to Yakushima Island from Naha. The cheapest way would be by taking a ferry from Naha. The voyage takes about forty minutes and costs around ¥2,000 (£12). Another option would be car rental. There are several agencies that offer rentals of cars and drives to the island for around ¥10,000 (£68).

Can I Bring My Dog To Yakushima Island?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Yakushima Island as long as they are kept in a leash and under your control at all times. You should also be aware that the island is off-limits to cats.