🚐 Dreaming of Sleeping Under the Stars in Yakushima?

A Complete Guide to Car Camping Spots for Free Spirits

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to wake up by the sound of waves, fall asleep to the rhythm of the forest, and follow your own schedule — Yakushima is calling you.

This magical island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Kyushu, is famous for its ancient forests, wild coastline, and spiritual atmosphere.

And the best part? You can explore it freely in your own car or campervan — waking up in some of the most beautiful places you’ve ever seen.

Here’s a local-curated list of recommended car camping spots around Yakushima, where you can park overnight (most with toilets nearby) and truly connect with nature.

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🌊 NAGATA AREA – Sea Turtles & Sunset Dreams

• Inakahama Parking Lot (toilet available)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/wfMhVdizVK5hePyT7?g_st=ipc

👉 Famous for sea turtle nesting. A quiet, wide beach stretches right in front of you.

• Nagata Park Parking Lot

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/nSz7GzyZc6sZL7Vx6?g_st=ipc

👉 Spacious lot beside a small local park. Perfect for slow mornings and starry nights.

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🌅 ISSOU AREA – Hidden Beach Vibes

• Issou Beach Parking Lot (toilet available)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/wqPDyDJNDNDq68MZ8?g_st=ipc

👉 A peaceful spot with easy access to the beach. Great for a morning swim or sunset meditation.

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🏞 MIYANOURA AREA – Riverside Calm Meets Convenience

• Miyanoura Riverside Parking (toilet available)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3nKXUmFhdvh4Hzz36?g_st=ipc

👉 Surrounded by trees and the sound of flowing water — but still close to town.

• NTT Parking Lot near Miyanoura River

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/noCTfesmFokhGQnd9?g_st=ipc

👉 Just minutes from Miyanoura’s main street. Great if you need to stock up or grab a meal.

• Fureai Park (toilet available)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/4yHpf8TMta9en6X2A?g_st=ipc

👉 Open green space for relaxing, picnicking, or just breathing deeply.

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🛒 ANBO AREA – Groceries & River Views

• A-Coop Parking Lot (Anbo Supermarket)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/1YohPh9K1tnmJuin8?g_st=ipc

👉 Right next to the supermarket — perfect for easy supply runs.

• Anbo Bridge Parking (no overnight stays allowed)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/b8svYXZrtKG8HN3f9?g_st=ipc

👉 You can stop here during the day to enjoy the view, but overnight camping is not permitted.

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🌲 WEST COAST WILD – Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Pure Nature

• Oko-no-Taki Waterfall Parking (toilet nearby)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/MtzUkSfBSDLCThwL8?g_st=ipc

👉 Feel the power of Yakushima’s largest waterfall just steps away.

• Natural Spring Water Spot

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/A2EY2K72hohMqc6U6?g_st=ipc

👉 Fill up your bottles with fresh mountain spring water loved by locals.

• Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen Parking (toilet nearby)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hh81tPKQvJbUuLRNA?g_st=ipc

👉 A wild seaside hot spring that only appears at low tide — one of Yakushima’s hidden treasures.

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💡 Things to Know:

• 🚽 Many parking spots listed have toilets nearby, but not all. Plan accordingly.

• 🚫 Some areas (like Anbo Bridge) do not allow overnight stays, so check signs and be respectful.

• 🙏 Keep Yakushima beautiful: take your trash, be quiet at night, and respect nature & locals.

• 🧺 Public baths and hot springs are available around the island — a perfect way to refresh on the road.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

Car camping in Yakushima is more than just saving on accommodation — it’s about waking up in the heart of nature, moving at your own pace, and experiencing the island’s raw magic.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in secret hot springs, or stargazing by the sea, your van is your key to the real Yakushima.

👉 Want to experience it yourself?

Check out our SUP and other gear rentals to help you make the most of your Nagata adventure.

Let nature set the pace — you won’t regret it.

✨ Happy travels, wild soul. ✨