Yakusugi Museum

Conveniently placed on the route toward the Arakawa Trail, this museum focuses on the ancient yakusugi cedars and the full range of vegetation that rises from Yakushima's subtropical coast to its near-alpine peaks. A panoramic room displays that vertical ecosystem in a single sweep. Other exhibits trace the evolution of logging tools on the island, from old axes to early saws, and demonstrate how yakusugi timber was split into roof shingles. The museum building itself is notable: specialist Shinto shrine carpenters built the entrance using no nails or metal fasteners. English audio guides are available at the front desk. Open daily 9am to 5pm, closed the first Tuesday of each month.