Before hiking on Yakushima then a little research into the environment you’ll be coming to will help you prepare well for a safe and happy trip to the island. Please take a look at the Yakushima Preparation List (PDF) to help you pack for the trip.
Although the summer temperatures will be around 30C along the coast, for every 200 meters elevation there is a drop of 1C in temperature. Therefore, at 1500 meters the temperature could be as low as 20C. In the winter, the temperatures in the mountains often fall below zero at night.
Yakushima Weather Chart
| Month | J | F | M | A | M | Jn | Jl | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Temp ℃ | 25.3 | 26.1 | 29.6 | 29.8 | 31.9 | 34.8 | 35.2 | 35.4 | 34.7 | 31.0 | 30.7 | 25.7 |
| Average High ℃ | 14.4 | 15.2 | 17.5 | 21.1 | 24.3 | 26.8 | 30.4 | 30.6 | 28.7 | 24.9 | 20.9 | 16.6 |
| Average Low ℃ | 8.7 | 9.1 | 11.1 | 14.2 | 17.3 | 20.7 | 23.7 | 24.2 | 22.6 | 19.0 | 14.9 | 10.6 |
| Lowest Temp ℃ | 1.1 | 0.7 | 1.5 | 4.5 | 9.3 | 13.7 | 18.3 | 19.6 | 15.2 | 9.1 | 5.6 | 2.2 |
| Rainfall mm | 272 | 286 | 428 | 421 | 441 | 773 | 311 | 269 | 406 | 299 | 303 | 262 |
| Humidity % | 68 | 68 | 71 | 72 | 76 | 83 | 82 | 81 | 79 | 73 | 70 | 68 |
| Hours of Daylight | 73.7 | 79.1 | 107 | 137 | 151 | 115 | 220 | 201 | 145 | 119 | 96.0 | 84.2 |
There are occasions when we encounter a heavy rainfall of over 100mm / hour. If this volume of rainfall is forecast in advance then we would normally either cancel the tour or offer a safe alternative. If caught out unexpectedly in such a volume of rain then having good equipment is essential. If you do not possess adequate equipment then upon the Go Yakushima booking form please state what is required and the necessary sizes and we can make arrangements for hiking gear rental on the island.
During the summer months then sun screen and sun hats would be required. It doesn`t rain all the time on Yakushima! During these summer months the locals disappear to the rivers and secluded bays to enjoy the water, so be sure to bring your swim wear.