Begin your private shore excursion with a convenient pickup directly from Miyanoura Port. Travel in the comfort of your own private vehicle. Unlike a large group tour, there is no need to keep pace with other travelers, allowing you to enjoy each destination comfortably and at your own pace.
Start your journey at the Yakusugi Museum, where you can learn about Yakushima’s ancient cedar forests, the history of logging, and the relationship between the island’s people and its forests. The exhibits provide a useful introduction before experiencing the ancient cedar forests themselves.
Continue into the mountains to Yakusugi Land, a natural recreation forest located at around 1,000 meters above sea level. Walk among ancient Yakusugi cedar trees, moss-covered forest scenery, streams, and native vegetation. Several walking courses are available, allowing the visit to be adjusted according to the available time and guests’ walking ability.
After exploring Yakusugi Land, continue along the mountain road to see two remarkable ancient cedar trees. Stop at Kigen-sugi Cedar, an impressive Yakusugi estimated to be around 3,000 years old, and Kawakami-sugi Cedar, estimated to be around 2,000 years old. Both can be reached along the road, making it possible to experience some of Yakushima’s ancient trees without a long mountain trek.
Next, travel south to Senpiro Falls, one of Yakushima’s impressive waterfalls. Water plunges approximately 60 meters through a dramatic granite valley, creating a powerful landscape surrounded by the island’s lush nature. Enjoy the view from the observation area before returning toward the port.
After experiencing Yakushima’s ancient forests, giant cedar trees, and dramatic natural scenery, return comfortably to Miyanoura Port in time for your ship’s departure.
The driver speaks Japanese, and communication will be assisted by a translation app. Pre-tour customer support is available in English.
Before your tour, you will receive an English audio guide and digital guidebook, downloadable to your own device, with information about the itinerary and sightseeing locations.