Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour on Yakushima Island

Nestled within the lush landscapes of Yakushima Island lies the enchanting Yakusugi Land, home to some of the world’s oldest and most captivating cedar trees. The Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour invites nature enthusiasts to explore this natural wonder, guiding them through serene trails that showcase the island’s breathtaking scenery. With ancient cedars over 1,000 years old and a range of hiking options, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to enjoy the timeless beauty of Yakushima’s untouched wilderness.

This experience made our article of 7 Best Tours In Kagoshima Prefecture.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour through Yakusugi Land nature park on Yakushima Island, exploring ancient Yakusugi cedar trees over 1,000 years old.
• Choice of easy and challenging hiking trails, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.
• Tour includes transportation, lunch, and insurance, starting at 8:30 am from a designated meeting point.
• Limited accessibility; not recommended for those with health concerns or serious medical conditions due to uneven terrain and extended walking.
• Tour priced from $315.76 per person, with free cancellation policy and rental gear available on the island.

Yakushima Island: A Breathtaking Natural Sanctuary

Nestled in the pristine waters of the East China Sea, Yakushima Island is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that captivates visitors with its ancient forests, towering waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Yakusugi, a species of Japanese cedar tree that can live for over 7,000 years.

Hiking through the island’s lush landscapes, visitors can marvel at these ancient giants and enjoy the untamed beauty of this remarkable ecosystem.

With its remote location and well-preserved natural wonders, Yakushima offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Exploring Yakusugi Land: Ancient Cedars and Serene Trails

Yakushima Island’s breathtaking landscapes extend beyond its ancient forests, with the Yakusugi Land nature park offering a captivating walking tour for visitors. Guided through the park’s lush trails, explorers encounter the island’s iconic Yakusugi cedars, some over 1,000 years old. The tour includes options for easy or more challenging hikes, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and immerse in the serene forest atmosphere. A thoughtful inclusion of essentials like lunch, transportation, and insurance ensures a well-rounded experience.

Tour Highlights	What’s Included	Important Notes
Guided walking tour	Lunch	Not wheelchair accessible
Ancient Yakusugi cedars	Hotel pickup/drop-off	Requires moderate fitness
Easy and challenging trails	Insurance	Gear available for rent

Tour Itinerary: Discovering the Wonders of Yakusugi

The walking tour through Yakusugi Land takes explorers on an immersive journey through the island’s ancient cedar forests.

Guests meet at the designated meeting point and are picked up for the start of the tour at 8:30 am.

After a scenic drive, the group embarks on a guided hike along an easy path with options for a steeper trail.

Throughout the trek, the tour provides opportunities to admire the majestic Yakusugi cedars, some over 1,000 years old.

A provided lunch offers a chance to refuel before continuing the exploration.

The tour concludes by returning to the original meeting spot.

Inclusions and Logistics: Planning Your Yakusugi Adventure

Although the Yakushima Island walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s ancient cedar forests, it’s important to understand the full scope of what’s included.

The tour provides lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and insurance coverage. However, it excludes any additional food and drinks not specified.

The tour starts at 8:30 am, with various meeting points to choose from, and ends back at the starting location. The group size is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers.

Certain health and accessibility restrictions apply, so hikers should assess their fitness level beforehand. Proper gear is recommended, but rentals are available on the island.

Health Considerations and Accessibility

Not everyone may be able to fully enjoy the Yakushima Island walking tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required. The terrain can be uneven, with steep sections on the longer trail option. Trekking poles and proper footwear are strongly advised.

Those with concerns about their health or mobility should consult their doctor before booking the tour. Participants must be able to walk for extended periods on potentially challenging paths through the ancient cedar forest.

Gear and Preparation: Ensuring a Comfortable Experience

To make the most of the Yakushima Island walking tour, participants should prepare accordingly.

The tour covers ancient cedar forests, so proper footwear is essential. Trekking shoes or boots with good traction are recommended for the longer course. Trekking poles can also provide stability and support on the trails.

A backpack is useful for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear. The weather on Yakushima can be unpredictable, so bringing a lightweight, waterproof jacket and pants is advisable.

Rental gear is available on the island for those who don’t have their own. Proper preparation ensures a comfortable and memorable experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Yakushima Island walking tour is priced from $315.76 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Guests can take advantage of the Free Cancellation policy up to 6 days in advance. The tour also offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.

• Flexible cancellation for peace of mind
• Competitive pricing with lowest guarantee
• Easy booking with reserve now, pay later
• Small group size for personalized experience
• Seamless logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusions mention that lunch is provided, but it doesn’t restrict you from bringing your own snacks or beverages to enjoy during the hike.

Is There an Option for a Private or Custom Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private or custom tour. Visitors can arrange a private tour tailored to their preferences, with flexible start times and group size. This provides a more personalized experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Explore More?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if you want to explore the forest more. The guide can accommodate your needs and adjust the itinerary to allow for deeper exploration, though additional fees may apply.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements?

There are no age restrictions or minimum age requirements for this tour. However, the tour is not recommended for very young children, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness and mobility.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for students or seniors, but there’s a Lowest Price Guarantee. The tour is priced per person and the total cost varies based on group size.

The Sum Up

The Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour on Yakushima Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the island’s ancient forests. With well-maintained trails, knowledgeable guides, and essential amenities, this tour promises a captivating and comfortable experience for nature enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, visitors will leave with lasting memories of Yakushima’s breathtaking landscapes and timeless Yakusugi cedars.