Kagoshima Day Tour: Hike World Heritage Yakushima by Express Jetfoil
- Travel from Kagoshima to Yakushima aboard the high-speed jetfoil, Toppy.
- An English-speaking guide will meet you at the Yakushima terminal and lead a hiking tour through the famous Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge.
- The lush, moss-covered forest of this UNESCO World Heritage site is said to have inspired Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.
What to expect
Explore Yakushima on a High-Speed Jetfoil Day Trip from Kagoshima!
- Embark on a thrilling day trip to the UNESCO-listed Yakushima Island by high-speed boat. Known for its lush forests, Yakushima is home to towering granite mountains and ancient cedar trees. About 90% of the island is covered in dense greenery, with Mt. Miyanoura standing as Kyushu’s highest peak.
Discover Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine – Taikoiwa Rock Hike (4–5 hours)
- Trek through the mystical Mononoke Forest, Kugurisugi Cedar, and Nanahonsugi Cedar before reaching Taikoiwa Rock. From this stunning viewpoint, enjoy breathtaking vistas of Yakushima’s rugged peaks, including Mt. Tachudake.









Reviews
This trip coincided with the rainy season, which was perfect because rainy days are my absolute favorite! Mr. Cameron was an excellent guide, leading us through both mountain hikes and seaside excursions. My memories of this Yakushima trip are truly wonderful!
The guide was very kind. There was no problem taking the express port at all. When I got off at the exit, the guide was waiting and I moved comfortably by car. They explained things during the trek and it was really great. I asked if I could stop by the souvenir shop, and they fulfilled my request in their busy schedule, so I bought souvenirs. It was such a satisfying tour. The trekking course itself is rough, so it seems safe to go with a guide.
A fantastic experience with beautiful scenery. Our guide was an excellent English-speaking guide from New Zealand. They also prepared lunch boxes for us.
The tour guide was very thoughtful in their arrangements and care. The English explanation was also very detailed. Not only can you enjoy the fun of hiking, but you can also increase your understanding of the natural environment of Yakushima. I would definitely recommend it to those with less hiking experience who want to enjoy the forest scenery of Yakushima in a short amount of time and in a safe environment.
Please remember to print out your voucher to present at the ferry ticket window when claiming your tickets, otherwise you will not be able to receive them. Printing at Japanese convenience stores can be difficult as the printers do not have online connectivity. The tour itself is really fun, and our guide was excellent, taking photos for us and explaining everything about the area. We learned so much ❤️! If you don't normally exercise, be sure to train a little before the trip, otherwise your legs will definitely be sore. Remember to wear hiking gear, and the lighter your backpack, the better.
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