The water is so pure on Yakushima that even the estuaries are crystal clear. It is possible to river kayak all year round and it’s a great way to experience the serenity and nature of Yakushima. The most popular kayaking rivers are the Anbo River & the Miyanoura River.

A river kayak trip usually starts from Anbo village and goes upstream a kilometer or so. Just beyond the Matsumine Bridge, the kayak guide will turn around to head back down-river. However, there is always time take a rest by the river bank or a dip in the river before you paddle leisurely back down towards the sea.

The river is wide and calm, meandering slowly between deep-forested valley walls.

It is safe and suitable for even complete kayaking novices. Keep your eyes and ears open and you may spot monkeys feeding in the canopy close to the river or even sea turtles swimming upstream.

River kayaking is also possible along the Miyanoura River, but this river is dependent upon the sea tide timetable.  Low tide makes it too shallow to kayak.  The Miyanoura River is also a beautiful body of water to paddle upon, although it doesn`t have the dramatic valley walls of the Anbo River.  However, the fact that it is a less popular destination to kayak does mean that it is a far quieter day on the river.