SWIMMING on YAKUSHIMA

You need to be cautious when swimming in the sea around the island as the current runs very near to the shore and would sweep you away in a second. I was a flying fish fisherman on Yakushima and the strength of the tides on the fishing boat never ceased to amaze me.

There are however areas around the island particularly suited to swimming and of course relaxing on the beach. Here are some of them:

ISSO BEACH

Isso beach

Isso beach is protected by a bay and has a lifeguard in summer who spends most of his time preventing bathers from going near the rocks. It's perfect for swimming but not snorkeling.

HARUTA BEACH

Harutahama beach

Don't be deceived by the name - it's all rocks and petrified dead coral here. There is however a natural pool carved from the rock and is good for swimming. 

KURIO BEACH

Kurio beach

Kurio beach at the entrance of the port, just after the ornamental fishing boat at the side of the road. Very safe for swimming.

NAGATA INAKAHAMA BEACH

Inakahama beach

There is a very strong current not too far from the shore all the way along this beach. If you swim here, you need to do so with care. Paddling is better!

For more informatiom about Yakushima check out the one and only Yakumonkey Guide