Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima
A luxury hillside resort on UNESCO-protected Yakushima Island — where ancient cedar forests meet the Pacific Ocean.
About this stay
On Yakushima — the island that inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke — Sankara is the only luxury resort amid this UNESCO World Heritage wilderness. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Pacific, the hotel serves as a refined base for exploring the island's primeval cedar forests, some trees over 7,000 years old. The spa uses Yakushima's mineral-rich spring water; the restaurant transforms the island's flying fish, turtle meat, and tankan citrus into French-Japanese art. Villas with private pools offer complete tropical forest seclusion.
What this place offers
Best for
Getting here
Flight to Kagoshima + propeller plane to Yakushima
Flight to Kagoshima + flight/ferry to Yakushima
Where you'll be
Guest Reviews
This place must be heaven, there is no other possibility. Immediately upon arrival you are welcomed by gorgeous nature and breathtaking views. The villa rooms are amazing and very spacious. The food was all super tasty and fresh. If you get the chance to dine at okas - please do so. The chefs are amazing and so kind. What really made this hotel shine were the staff. They have truly given us the best treatment we could have wished for. They anticipate your every need and go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable as possible. It was an unforgettable time at Sankara. I cried a little when we had to leave and will definitely return here. 🙏🏼
Fabulous resort. Well located in a secluded part of the island, overlooking the sea in the front and mountains in the rear. Fantastic service and beautiful spacious rooms and amenities. The two restaurants serve Michelin star meals. One of the best hotels we have ever had the pleasure of staying at.
Our stay at Sankara was simply amazing. The staff was incredible, and the entire property was immaculately clean. Spa menu was great. The two restaurants are very good, both in service and food quality, but I strongly recommend Okra upstairs - a truly memorable and delicious meal. Thank you everyone at Sankara for such a wonderful experience!
Just had a fantastic stay at Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, and it was truly amazing. The staff were so kind with their warm smiles, which made everything even better. There is nothing better than having a lovely afternoontea with the ocean view from the poolsoide. And dinner at restaurant Okas was definitely a highlight— the presentation and taste of the food were absolutely top-notch! Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Yakushima! 😊
Literally the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at. If there was such a thing as “six stars,” they should have the designation. And I’ve stayed at five star properties. Food was exceptional. Room was huge, spotlessly clean, 100% private, and beautifully appointed. The private bath was eye-popping and wonderful. Beds were perfect. But the best part by far was the service—the level of care, the attention to detail. Rio, Jun, and Tommy were among the many staff we interacted with. Rio was kind, natural, thorough in explaining the facilities. Jun was a whiz with wines and food recommendations. Tommy noticed my left-handedness and made sure my place setting was arranged to accommodate it at every meal. I was blown away. Hidden gems: fabulous e-bikes for rent, free cookies and snacks in the lobby and room, corn ice-tea, and free passes to the beautiful onsen at their sister property, Samana.
Reviews sourced from Google
Up to $900/night depending on season
Not affiliated with this property. Prices may vary.