The natural scenery on the island is stunning. You can see the ancient Yakusugi cedar forests over 1,000 meters above sea level. There's also a unique mixed-gender hot spring in the sea at Hirauchi, but I was too shy to try it.
Yakushima | Review by Emma Lee
Other Reviews by Emma Lee
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Sakurajima
Sakurajima is an active composite volcano located in Kagoshima Bay. It is a symbol of Kagoshima, and part of Kirishima-Yaku National Park. The volcano began to form around 26,000 years ago, and it has had 17 major eruptions.
People here literally live their everyday lives watching a volcano. The mental toughness of folks in Kagoshima is really something.
The moment Sakurajima starts smoking, the whole city’s vibe turns into this mix of “tense, but somehow totally routine.” -
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Niizaki Shrine
Niizaki Shrine is dedicated to Xu Fu, the Chinese emissary who, according to legend, crossed the sea by order of Qin Shi Huang to seek the elixir of immortality. It is said that Xu Fu arrived in this area of Ine Bay, settled in Niizaki, and shared his knowledge of medicine, astronomy, fortune-telling, fishing, and agriculture with the local villagers. After his death, the villagers enshrined him at Niizaki Shrine as their guardian deity, and he has since been worshipped as a protector of maritime safety and fishing.
Niizaki Shrine faces the ocean, and the scenery here is absolutely stunning and peaceful. It's a sacred place where locals pray for safety. The torii gate with the sea in the background makes for some amazing photos. Walking around here is super relaxing.
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MITSUI OUTLET PARK KISARAZU
This resort-style outlet mall ranks among the largest in Japan, complete with all the perks of a naturally rich area and convenient access via the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. Over 330 stores await, included coveted domestic and international brands, select shops, and high-end fashion names for a purely unpparalleled shopping experience.
There are tons of brands here—GUCCI, COACH, NIKE, BEAMS, you name it. I shopped till I dropped!
