The mystical island of Yakushima delivers Japan’s most rewarding hiking experiences.
Four standout tours dominate the scene: a private full-day guided trek, the cedar forest walk, Yakusugi Land half-day tour, and the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine hike.
Our favorite is the full-day guided option – it’s intimate, adaptable, and gets you up-close with those remarkable UNESCO-listed cedar giants.
The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine tour comes in as a close second, offering the perfect mix of stunning waterfalls and ancient forest paths.
Each tour provides gear rental and accommodates different fitness levels.
Let’s explore these top-rated walking tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers exceptional walking tours showcasing ancient cedar forests and scenic waterfalls.
- Guided tours through the Yakusugi Cedar Forest provide opportunities to see trees over 7,000 years old in a small-group setting.
- Yakusugi Land, a well-known hiking destination, features a private half-day tour with moderate physical activity through the UNESCO-listed cedar forest.
- Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, another UNESCO site, offers a challenging but rewarding one-day walking tour with an English-speaking guide and shuttle service.
- Personalized full-day walking tours in Yakushima can be customized to include highlights like Yakusugi Land, hot springs, and a 3,000-year-old cedar tree.
Private Tour: Full-Day Walking Tour With Professional Local Guide in Yakushima Island
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Yakushima Island, this private full-day walking tour led by a professional local guide offers an unparalleled opportunity. Priced at $455.95 for up to 4 travelers, this tour provides a customizable itinerary to discover the island’s natural wonders.
Highlights include visiting Yakusugi Land, a renowned cedar forest, and relaxing at the Yakushima Onsen hot springs. Travelers will also have the chance to see the Senpiro Falls and explore the Nagata Inakahama beach. A leisurely forest hike will lead to a giant waterfall and a 3,000-year-old cedar tree.
Throughout the day, guests can enjoy ocean and forest vistas and even try their hand at ocean paddling. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and private tour photos.
Travelers can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. With a 5.0 overall rating based on a single review, this walking tour promises an unforgettable experience on Yakushima Island.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Full-Day Walking Tour With Professional Local Guide in Yakushima Island Review
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Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour on Yakushima Island
Enjoy the ancient, otherworldly beauty of the Yakusugi Cedar Forest on Yakushima Island. This guided walking tour takes you through a lush, primeval landscape, where towering Yakusugi cedar trees, some over 7,000 years old, reach for the sky.
The tour duration is flexible, allowing you to explore the forest’s depths to your heart’s content. This small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, includes lunch, insurance, and gratuities.
Meeting at 8:30 AM, you’ll set off from a location of your choosing, returning to the same point at the end of your adventure. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Bring along trekking poles, sturdy shoes, and rain gear, as needed. Rental gear is available on the island. With an impressive 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable encounter with one of Japan’s most captivating natural wonders.
Read our full review: Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour on Yakushima Island Review
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Half Day Walking Tour in Yakusugi Land
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Yakushima’s ancient Yakusugi cedar forest can embark on a half-day walking tour through Yakusugi Land. Operated by H.I.S.Co., Ltd., this private tour takes visitors on a guided hike through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as necessary trekking equipment. Participants should expect a moderate level of physical activity, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical concerns.
Proper preparation is essential, with recommended gear including quick-drying, easy-to-move clothing, waterproof trekking shoes, and a backpack for snacks and water.
The tour begins at 8 am, with pickup times varying based on the hotel location. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The price starts at $166.40 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, though the tour is non-refundable and no refunds are provided for cancellations.
Read our full review: Half Day Walking Tour in Yakusugi Land Review
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Yakushima 1 Day SHIRATANI UNSUIKYO Walking With ENGLISH Speaking Guide
H.I.S.Co., Ltd. offers the Yakushima 1 day SHIRATANI UNSUIKYO Walking tour, providing travelers with an opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine in Kagoshima Prefecture.
The tour is priced from $189.70 per person and runs from March 16, 2023, to October 26, 2025, with daily departures from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, shuttle service, a lunch box, and necessary hiking equipment. Participants should have a strong level of physical fitness, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Due to the risk of flooding and snow, the provider may cancel the tour in inclement weather.
Travelers are advised to wear quick-drying clothes, waterproof trekking shoes, and bring a 15L-25L backpack, a 1L water bottle, snacks, waterproof rain gear, and a hat.
The tour is a private experience, and no refunds are available for cancellations.
Read our full review: Yakushima 1 Day SHIRATANI UNSUIKYO Walking With ENGLISH Speaking Guide Review
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Questions About Staying Here
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
Whether you can bring your pet on the walking tour depends on the specific tour operator’s policies. It’s best to check with them beforehand to see if they allow pets and what their guidelines are.
Are the Walking Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The walking tours are generally accessible for people with disabilities, though it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure they can accommodate any specific needs. They’ll work to make the experience enjoyable for all participants.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Yakushima?
The best time to visit Yakushima is during the summer months of June to September, when the weather is mild and visitors can enjoy the island’s lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. However, the island can be visited year-round.
Are There Any Safety Precautions to Take on the Trails?
When hiking the trails of Yakushima, it’s important to take several safety precautions. Wear proper hiking gear, bring sufficient water and snacks, research trail conditions, and inform others of your plans. Be prepared for changing weather and wildlife encounters while enjoying the natural beauty.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Products on the Tours?
You can usually purchase souvenirs or local products on the walking tours. Many tours include stops at local shops or markets where you can buy traditional crafts, snacks, or other unique items from the region.
Worth The Stay
Yakushima Island offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning natural landscapes. From the Yakusugi Cedar Forest to the Shiratani Unsuikyo Valley, these tours provide an opportunity to take in the island’s unique ecosystem and UNESCO World Heritage-listed forests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure, Yakushima’s walking tours are an excellent way to discover the beauty of this remarkable destination.