The main entry point is Miyanoura Port on the north coast. Ferries run from Kagoshima's Kagoshima-ko ferry terminal, with a choice of vessels: the high-speed Toppy or Rocket hydrofoils make the crossing in about two hours; the slower Yakushima 2 car ferry takes three to four hours and is the better option if you're bringing a bicycle or car.
There is also a small airport at Yakushima Town on the south coast, with several daily flights from Kagoshima (about 35 minutes). Flights are convenient but more expensive than the ferry, and the airport is not near the main hiking areas. The ferry to Miyanoura is the standard choice for most visitors.
Once on Yakushima, rental cars and scooters are available at Miyanoura port from several agencies; booking ahead in busy season is advisable. A bus network connects the port with the main trailheads and coastal sites, but services are infrequent and the timetable needs careful planning. The shuttle bus system to Arakawa trailhead (for Jōmon Sugi) operates seasonally and requires advance ticket purchase.