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Yakushima

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Yakushima Weather and climate

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Yakushima year round climate
  • Spring (March–May): Average 16–22°C, mild climate but abundant rainfall, often cloudy and rainy. Common activities: Hiking, flower viewing (some mountain plants blooming), visiting Yakushima cedars. Recommended clothing: Lightweight waterproof jacket, long-sleeved clothing, comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 24–29°C, hot and humid, heavy rainfall, especially in June. Common activities: Swimming (in safe areas), waterfall exploration, forest bathing. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, sandals, rain gear.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 19–27°C, comfortable climate, rainfall gradually decreases, more sunshine. Common activities: Hiking, viewing autumn leaves (some mountain plants changing color), bird watching. Recommended clothing: Long-sleeved clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, light jacket.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 12–16°C, lower temperatures, but rarely severely cold, moderate rainfall. Common activities: Hot spring bathing, appreciating Yakushima's winter scenery, visiting museums. Recommended clothing: Warm jacket, long pants, comfortable shoes.
Yakushima climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 20.7°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 4499 mm / Summer humidity: 75%–85% / Rainiest month: June

Yakushima monthly average temperature and precipitation
Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
12.4°C
188.7
February
13.3°C
346.5
March
16°C
345.9
April
19.6°C
434.1
May
22°C
405.7
June
24.9°C
864.4
July
28°C
349.3
August
28.6°C
452.4
September
27.5°C
210.1
October
23.1°C
342.9
November
19.6°C
285
December
13.2°C
274.8
Yakushima weather for the next seven days
10/28
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
19.6°C/18.7°C
10/29
Wednesday
Patchy rain nearby
22°C/19.7°C
10/30
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
22.9°C/20.9°C
10/31
Friday
Heavy rain
22.5°C/20°C
11/1
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
22.7°C/20.5°C
11/2
Sunday
Partly Cloudy
21.3°C/20.5°C
11/3
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
21.4°C/19.4°C

Yakushima FAQ

What is Yakushima famous for?
Yakushima is famous for its ancient cedar forests, especially the Jomon Sugi, which is over a thousand years old. The island is also known for its abundant wildlife, including unique Yakushima deer and monkeys, high annual rainfall that creates mystical, moss-covered landscapes, and being a major nesting site for sea turtles. Its breathtaking natural beauty and primeval atmosphere inspired Studio Ghibli's animated film Princess Mononoke, and its ecosystem earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The island's most famous feature is its population of Yakusugi, Japanese cedar trees that can be thousands of years old. The Jomon Sugi is the oldest, estimated to be over 7,000 years old. The high annual rainfall and unique climate contribute to the lush, moss-covered forests that give the island an enchanting, ancient quality. The island's remarkable biodiversity and ancient forests were recognized as a World Natural Heritage site in 1993.
Is it worth going to Yakushima?
Absolutely, Yakushima Island is worth visiting, assuming you have enough time in your itinerary and are prepared for the journey. If both of these things are true, then prepare to be amazed by its natural wonders.
How many people live on Yakushima?
The population of Yakushima island is around 12,000 to 13,000 people. Most residents live in coastal villages. The population reached a peak in 1960 and has since stabilized.
Can you stay on Yakushima Island?
Yes, on Yakushima there is a great selection of places to stay. You can choose from exclusive hotels to shared budget accommodation.
What kind of wildlife can be found on Yakushima?
Yakushima is home to abundant and unique wildlife, including the endemic Yakushima deer and Yakushima macaque monkeys. The island's rich biodiversity also supports a variety of plant and bird species, thriving in its ancient forests.