Yakushima

Yakushima, located in Kagoshima prefecture, is a mossy, subtropical island known for its Yakusugi, or ancient cedar trees. The age of some Yakusugi is estimated to be between 1,000 and 7,000 years. This natural wonder was Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it inspired the lush, enchanting setting for the legendary Ghibli film Princess Mononoke.

The island is well-known for its cedar products. Fallen Yakusugi tree trunks are collected in the forest and transformed into utensils and amazing decorative sculptures by local expert craftsmen. Given that three-thirds of the island is forested, it's no surprise that the Goshinzan festival on the Miyanoura river each summer is held to honor the mountain god.

There are numerous places for visitors to explore on the island. Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge offers a walk through the Yakusugi forest, as well as a spa right on the beach at Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen. Visit Ooko-no-taki, Yakushima's highest waterfall with the most water, and Senpiro-no-taki, which features water pouring from 66 meters into a massive granite block. This isn't the only thing this one-of-a-kind island has to offer; from May to July, Nagata Inaka Beach is the remote location for the largest sea turtle nesting site. This is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy the countryside.

• Location: Kyushu, Japan
• Best time to visit: February, March, April, May, August, November and December