Yakushima Island

Magnificent nature designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site

An island of world natural heritage status

Yakushima Island is listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site for its unique ecosystem. About 20% of the island is designated as such, from the central part of the island where Jomonsugi Cedar is to the western part of the island through which the Seibu Rindo (West Forest Trail) road passes.

World Natural Heritage in Japan

Data

Land area
504.94㎢
Also known as the "Alps of the Sea", 90% of Yakushima Island is covered with forest.
Circumference
132km
The ring road around the island is approx. 100 km, and you can complete your drive in about 3 hours without stopping.
Population
approx.13,600 people
There is a saying that there are "20,000 monkeys, 20,000 deer, 20,000 people" on the island, alluding to the high numbers of Yaku deer and Yaku monkeys.
Topography
approx. 2,000m above sea level
Yakushima Island's distinctive feature is the vertical distribution of a great variety of plants, so enabled by the wide range of climate zones.

Climate

Yakushima Island experiences much rain, almost 3 times that of Tokyo's annual rainfall. It is often described as "rainy 35 days a month". As the weather is often unpredictable, rain gear like umbrellas are must-have items.

Average temperatures and rainfall
Average values from 1981 to 2010 (statistics from Japan Meteorological Agency)