Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island is called “The Ocean Alps,” because steep 1,000m-high mountains seem like rising from the sea. Nature has been well-preserved that the vast forest is covering 90% of the land area. This island is designated as a World Natural Heritage site and draws many tourists. Giant cedars called Yaku-sugi are popular tourism attractions. They grow on a high ground over 1,000 m high from the sea level. There are two famous Yaku-sugis; one is the Jyoumon-sugi, the age of which is more than 7,000 years, and another is the Wilson-sugi, the circumference of the stub is more than 13 meters. If you are lucky, you will encounter with indigenous animals such as Yakushima Cervus and Yakushima monkeys. A piece of advice; Bring an umbrella with you when you go to the mountain area. The weather is really changeable.