Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Route at a glance
This active-paced 6-day itinerary uses 2 bases — Kagoshima (1 night), Yakushima (5 nights) — to keep hotel changes low while covering Kagoshima, Yakushima. Daily spend for mid-range travelers is around ¥18,000 per person including accommodation.
Why this route is ranked #67
Ranked #67 with 74/100: efficient base changes, strong Kyushu highlights (Kagoshima, Yakushima), active pacing for hikers, and good value at ¥18,000/day.
| Criterion | Score |
|---|---|
| Route Efficiency & Transit Pacing | 22.2 / 30 |
| Iconic & Cultural Depth | 18.5 / 25 |
| First-Timer Accessibility & Logistics | 14.8 / 20 |
| Cost-to-Value Ratio | 11.1 / 15 |
| Seasonal Flexibility | 7.4 / 10 |
| Total | 74 / 100 |
Day-by-day plan
Arrive in Kagoshima
Arrive, pick up an IC card and settle in. Easy first afternoon: Sakurajima volcano ferry and Sengan-en.
Travel to Yakushima
Morning transfer to Yakushima (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Shiratani Unsuikyo moss forest and Jomon Sugi trek.
Flexible day in Yakushima
Free day in Yakushima: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Shiratani Unsuikyo moss forest and Jomon Sugi trek.
Flexible day in Yakushima
Free day in Yakushima: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Shiratani Unsuikyo moss forest and Jomon Sugi trek.
Flexible day in Yakushima
Free day in Yakushima: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Shiratani Unsuikyo moss forest and Jomon Sugi trek.
Flexible day in Yakushima · depart
Free day in Yakushima: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Shiratani Unsuikyo moss forest and Jomon Sugi trek. Head to the airport in the afternoon.
Transport & rail pass notes
Use an IC card (Suica/ICOCA) for local trains and buses. Point-to-point tickets are usually cheaper than a JR Pass for this route. A rental car adds flexibility in rural areas — see our car rental route guides.
What to book ahead
- Hotels in peak sakura (late Mar–early Apr) and koyo (Nov) seasons
- Shinkansen seats on weekends & holidays
- Signature experiences in Kagoshima
Ways to adapt this route
- Short on time? Drop Yakushima and add a night to Kagoshima.
- Travelling in winter? Check seasonal closures for mountain roads and ropeways.
- Use our Itinerary Builder tool to customise this plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is 6 days enough for Kagoshima, Yakushima?
Yes — this plan gives Kagoshima (1 night), Yakushima (5 nights), which is enough for the main highlights at a active pace.
How much does this 6-day Japan trip cost?
Roughly ¥108,000 per person for 6 days (≈¥18,000/day) excluding international flights.
Do I need a JR Pass for this itinerary?
Enter your legs in our JR Pass Calculator; single tickets or regional passes are often cheaper.
When is the best time to do this route?
Late March–May and October–November for the best weather.