Osaka Yakushima/Tanegashima Flights (Dec)

Hi All,

At present, I'm slowly planning my upcoming last trip to Japan which will include Yakushima and potentially Tanegashima.

My plan is to fly from Osaka to Yakushima or Tanegashima on December 31st and spend two nights on each island. I'll then catch the fast ferry back to Kagoshima after this time.

To put it simply - my questions are the following

(1) Does anyone know when JAL will be selling flights to either of these locations?

(2) Is it better to fly Osaka - Kagoshima - Yakushima using discount tickets?

My last question is a bit difficult to answer, specifically as I'm not sure if there is someone who knows the answer to this on the current forum....

(3) If you like light hiking and seeing natural wonders, do you think it's better to spend 2 nights on both islands, or just three nights on Yakushima and see this island in more detail?? (I'll be hiring a car)

The only reason I ask this is I'm worried that not much will be open on Tanegashima when I visit.

(2) Is it better to fly Osaka - Kagoshima - Yakushima using discount tickets?
That was what I did with Peach air to Kagoshima and "JAL" to Yakushima. Could be a bit of saving if you book early.

i(3) If you like light hiking and seeing natural wonders, do you think it's better to spend 2 nights on both islands, or just three nights on Yakushima and see this island in more detail?? (I'll be hiring a car)
Never been to Tanegashima, so could comment on that island.
I did spend 4 days and three nights when visiting Yakushima, just managed to see most of the places I wanted to see. I would recommend 3 nights instead of two in Yakusshima, especially if you enjoy hiking.

Thanks for the info. I'll keep this as an option as it seems as though flights can be reasonably expensive to Yakushima, specifically since it's only JAL. Any other comments from other people will also be much appreciated

flights can be reasonably expensive to Yakushima

That was what I initially thought. But after checking the Toppy�� Rocket fares, I found the early JAL discount ticket was the best option. If I remember correctly, I paid less than 8000 yens for OCT flight.
I also got really cheap fare with Peach air for Kagoshima flight from Osaka, under 2000 yens.

The flights are definitely expensive. It's done by Japan Air Commuter, which is a JAL subsidiary, but JAC flights can't be included in their Yokoso Air Pass or Explorer Fare.
Just as a side question, have you already been to Amami, Yoron, or any of those islands? You'd probably find them a lot more interesting and beautiful.

Hi Ken,

I've already been to Amami, Sado, Okinawa, Yaeyama, Rishiri, Rebun and a good smattering of the Seto Islands along with a good number of others. Yakushima is the main one I have not visited.

I've found Rishiri/Rebun were my favourite for nature, Sado for history and the Seto Islands for the Setouchi Triannual.....

Ok, fair enough. Although Tanegashima as I recall has more fishing and surfing, plus of course the rocket launches which are few are far between. If you like history, the Goto Islands & Hirado might suit you better. Tanegashima wouldn't really be up there on my list, but maybe something there appeals to you.

Oh yeah I forgot about Hirado in Nagasaki. I did enjoy there are well. It seems as though I may skip Tanegashima then - just trying to work out if Yakushima is best for 3 or 4 nights now...

I spent quite some time in Yakushima - stayed there for 2 months in October-November 2018. I would propose 4 nights for the island and it will really be comfortable amount of time particularly if you will be renting a car. I find both the plane and jetfoil to be quiet expensive. Slow ferry of 4 hours from Kagoshima maybe another option (around 5000 Yen) or overnight cargo ship (3500 Yen) if you are into that kind of adventure, not very comfortable but definitely an experience :) Its departing location is a bit far off in Kagoshima though. I would be happy to answer any other specific Yakushima query you may have (www.bizarrejourneys.com)