Miyanoura is the main settlement on Yakushima and the island's primary ferry terminal. High-speed hydrofoil ferries from Kagoshima arrive here in about two hours; the slower car ferry takes closer to four hours. The town sits on the northern coast and most visitors arrive in Miyanoura before heading to the trails.
The port area has the island's best selection of shops, restaurants, and accommodation. A small visitor centre near the ferry terminal distributes trail maps and information on current conditions and shuttle bus schedules. The covered market near the harbour is the best place to pick up local produce — flying fish (tobiuo) is the island's specialty, dried or fresh, and worth trying. The Yakushima Environmental Cultural Village Centre, a short walk from the port, has good displays on the island's ecology and history that provide useful context before you head into the forest.