Yakushima's main draws are its ancient cedar forests and mountain hiking. Jōmon Sugi is the headline attraction — a full-day trail through spectacular old-growth forest to one of the world's oldest trees. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is more accessible and provided the visual inspiration for Princess Mononoke.
For serious hikers, the summit of Mount Miyanoura is the highest point in Kyushu and the centrepiece of multi-day mountain traverses. The coast offers tidal hot springs at Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, nesting sea turtles at Inakahama Beach, and snorkelling and diving in clear subtropical waters.