Destinations

Yakushima

"Yakushima is often refered to as the “Alps of the Sea” and it is easy to see why as you approach the island by boat or plane. The island's mountains are covered in ancient forest and unique flora and fauna. A great outdoors experience on a small Japanese island"

James Mundy - PR Manager

This far south in Japan you are unlikely to encounter many westerners. But most of the Japanese you’ll join on the jetfoil cruise to Yakushima will also be travelling to marvel at the awe inspiring beauty of an island only 15,000 people call home. The majority of the island is covered by stunning primeval forest but there is still room for the nesting sea turtles on Yakushima’s charming and untainted beaches. And relative isolation means that the troops of monkeys and deer that roam through the hills have no reason to fear man.

Be sure to get up early to give yourself time to get lost amongst the towering cedar trees in this World Natural Heritage Site. Some of the cedar are over 1000 years old and have earnt the special title yakusugi. Close inspections reveals a multitude of lichens and mosses and occasional breaks in the forest offer breathtaking views over the peaks and down to the waterfalls hidden at the islands centre. A similar experience was enjoyed by Hayao Miyazaki who was then inspired to write Momonoke Hime: a story of forest spirits and one of Japan’s most popular animations.

A stay at one of the island’s pensions will enable you to try some of the exquisite and exceptionally fresh local food.  Be sure to try some of speciality: flying fish and a shot of the smooth but potent Mitake shochu.

Products featuring Yakushima...

Small Group Tour

Kyushu Elements

Kyushu Elements is a dramatic journey of discovery south to the Island of Kyushu, a land of Earth, Fire and Water. Here you will find a country far removed from the bright lights of the ultra-modern cities. Life here is lived at a slower pace and you'll have time to enjoy what Japan is really about.

14 Nights: £2800

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Self Guided Adventure

Kyushu Adventure

Rural and remote, the island of Kyushu is a world away from the non-stop hive of activity of Japan’s eastern seaboard. From the laid-back historic port city of Nagasaki to the hot spring town of Beppu and the ancient forests of Yakushima Island, there are many treasures waiting to be discovered.

16 Nights: £2268

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