Yakushima, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Yakushima, Japan? If you're planning to go to Yakushima, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Yakushima, Japan

Based on the climate and weather in Yakushima, Japan, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Yakushima, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Yakushima, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Yakushima, Japan by month

January

If you vacation in Yakushima during January, you will probably notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February in Yakushima can be chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

If you go to Yakushima in March, you will notice that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Yakushima is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

If you vacation in Yakushima during May, you will probably see that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July in Yakushima is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

Traveling to Yakushima in August, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

In September, Yakushima is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Yakushima, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

If you vacation in Yakushima during October, you might see that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November here is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December for Yakushima is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yakushima. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you're gonna visit Ooko-no-taki waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Yakushima, Japan

Yakushima, located off the southern coast of Japan, is a beautiful island that boasts a unique range of flora and fauna, as well as stunning natural landscapes that make it a popular tourist destination. With so much to explore in Yakushima, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you won't want to miss on your trip to this breathtakingly beautiful island.

Jomon Sugi

Jomon Sugi, one of the most famous attractions of Yakushima, is a huge cedar tree that is believed to be over 2,000 years old. To reach this magnificent tree, visitors need to take a 22km trail through some of the island's most picturesque forests. This trail is not for the faint-hearted but is worth the effort to witness this ancient and awe-inspiring tree surrounded by incredibly lush vegetation.

Shiratani Unsuikyo

Shiratani Unsuikyo is another stunning forest that is found on the island of Yakushima. The forest is known for its enormous cedar trees that are hundreds of years old and the moss-covered rocks that create a surreal and mystical feel. The trails can be challenging but offer a spectacular hiking experience, with the chance to witness the forest's unique natural beauty.

Yakusugi Land

Yakusugi Land is an area in Yakushima that is home to a number of Yakusugi trees that are more than 1,000 years old. Here, visitors can take a leisurely hiking trail that winds through the mountainous terrain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trail also takes visitors on a journey through the history of the Yakushima island, with signs and displays detailing its cultural significance to the local community.

Yaku Shrine

Yaku Shrine, also known as Yaku-no-Kami, is considered the most important Shinto shrine in Yakushima. It is located near the coast and is surrounded by a lush forest of cedar trees. The area is sacred, and visitors are urged to give it the respect it deserves, with dress codes and camera policies. Within the shrine is a sacred rock, which is said to bring good fortune to those who touch it.

Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen

Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen offers an incredibly relaxing way to take in the natural beauty of Yakushima. This onsen is unique as it is situated in the sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline. The natural hot spring water is believed to help with healing and relaxation, allowing visitors to truly unwind while taking in the stunning scenery of the crystal-clear blue waters.

In conclusion, Yakushima is an island in Japan that offers a plethora of natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. The above-mentioned attractions are just a few of the must-sees when visiting Yakushima, and are sure to make any trip to this island unforgettable. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, maps, and a sense of adventure- there's so much to explore here!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Deryneia, Cyprus, Wauseon, Ohio, United States of America, Palani, India, Durango, Colorado, United States of America, Riksgränsen, Sweden, Salem, Ohio, United States of America, Quan Lan, Vietnam, Ely, England, United Kingdom, Mir, Belarus, Sidon, Lebanon, and Feodosiya, Russia.