The Eclipse

A total eclipse of the sun on Yakushima will begin on July 22nd 2009 at 9.37am. The sun will be completely eclipsed between 10.55-11.00am and the whole process will finish by 12.23pm.

The numbers of visitors to view this in special areas on Yakushima have been restricted to 4,500 and applications for access to the island finished on the 27th Feb. The ‘winners’ were drawn by lottery on March 20th.

In practical terms what this means is that from July 19th to July 25th access by ferry and jet foil is controlled by the town hall. If you do not have permission, you cannot board during these dates.

The plane however is not controlled and should you wish to take a day trip or if you have connections on the island who can provide you accommodation it is possible to fly there during these dates. Without evidence of fixed accommodation however it will be difficult.
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