Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima

891-4402 Kagoshima, Yakushima, Mugio 553, Japan

Guest reviews: 9.7

HOTEL OVERVIEW

Nestled in the pristine natural beauty of Yakushima Island, the exceptional 4-star Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquility. Located at Mugio 553 in Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture, this remarkable retreat has earned an outstanding guest rating of 9.7, placing it among Japan’s most highly acclaimed accommodations. This exceptional score reflects the hotel’s unwavering commitment to providing an extraordinary experience that harmoniously blends world-class amenities with the island’s mystical atmosphere. Situated on an island recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sankara offers guests an exclusive gateway to explore Yakushima’s ancient cedar forests, crystalline waters, and diverse ecosystem that inspired Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece “Princess Mononoke.” The Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima represents a perfect fusion of contemporary luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating a sanctuary where time seems to slow down. Each elegantly appointed room and suite features panoramic views of either the lush mountainous landscape or the sparkling East China Sea, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendor that defines Yakushima. The property’s architectural design thoughtfully incorporates natural materials and expansive windows that frame the surrounding beauty, creating spaces that feel both intimate and connected to the environment. The hotel’s world-class spa facility draws inspiration from ancient healing traditions, utilizing local ingredients like yakusugi (Yakushima cedar) essential oils and mineral-rich volcanic elements in their rejuvenating treatments. After a day of exploring the island’s moss-covered forests and cascading waterfalls, guests can retreat to the infinity pool that appears to merge with the ocean horizon or indulge in a traditional onsen bath that soothes both body and spirit. What truly distinguishes Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, beyond its impeccable facilities and breathtaking location, is its deeply personalized approach to hospitality. With its near-perfect 9.7 rating, it’s evident that the attentive staff consistently exceeds expectations, offering tailored experiences that range from guided nature treks through the island’s ecological wonders to private dining experiences showcasing the finest local seafood and seasonal ingredients. The culinary program celebrates Yakushima’s abundant natural bounty, with expert chefs creating innovative French-Japanese fusion dishes using ingredients sourced from local fishermen and farmers. The hotel also serves as an ideal base for exploring the island’s many natural treasures, including the awe-inspiring Jomon Sugi (a cedar tree estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old) and the ethereal Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine. For travelers seeking an extraordinary escape that combines luxury amenities with immersive natural experiences, Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima represents the pinnacle of hospitality on this mystical island, promising memories that will endure long after departure.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

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Reviews

Staff: 9.9

Comfort: 9.7

Location: 9.6

Free WiFi: 8.5

Facilities: 9.6

Cleanliness: 9.8

Value for money: 8.9

Mary from United States (14 December 2024)

10/10

Sankara was like being in a tropical paradise with a staff that anticipated our every need. The property was absolutely beautiful and many of the staff spoke English very well, so communication was no issue. In all our travels we have never been to such an accommodating hotel where the staff took such great care of us and were so warm and friendly...

Mary from United States (14 December 2024)

10/10

Sankara was like being in a tropical paradise with a staff that anticipated our every need. The property was absolutely beautiful and many of the staff spoke English very well, so communication was no issue. In all our travels we have never been to such an accommodating hotel where the staff took such great care of us and were so warm and friendly. The food was fantastic, and the lobby always had refreshments available for snacking or drinks. They arranged for our hiking gear so we could go see the Sugi trees--which were amazing!

What could be improved: In our cabin, the bathroom was definitely in need of an update but the rest of the room was great and super comfy.

Nima from United States (27 March 2025)

10/10

I travel a lot, but this hotel is possibly my favorite. Everything is exceptional. The beauty of property, staff who go above and beyond, fantastic management, tech savvy rooms, and a near unparalleled island.

What could be improved: Nothing

Francis from France (12 March 2025)

10/10

every thing is excellent ; caring and customized service ; staff has an answer and a solution to any question or need

What could be improved: nothing

Xin from China (8 January 2025)

10/10

good spa,good service,good view

What could be improved: no

Paul from Australia (9 November 2024)

10/10

Spent 4 nights here, using it as a base to explore Yakushima. We were really torn between sightseeing and enjoying the facilities. The staff are very attentive and helpful - dealt with a flat tyre on the hire car as we were leaving in less than 10 minutes. The accommodation is spacious and comfortable, the food very good and facilities are...

Paul from Australia (9 November 2024)

10/10

Spent 4 nights here, using it as a base to explore Yakushima. We were really torn between sightseeing and enjoying the facilities. The staff are very attentive and helpful - dealt with a flat tyre on the hire car as we were leaving in less than 10 minutes. The accommodation is spacious and comfortable, the food very good and facilities are excellent. Very happy to use the free guest laundry to wash dirty walking clothes - it does rain a bit on the island.

What could be improved: Nothing - cannot fault this place and would stay again

Kathy from United States (9 November 2024)

10/10

What could be improved: Would have been great to have a walking trail on the property. Would very much liked to have a coffee machine in the room

Nicki from Australia (1 November 2024)

10/10

Beautiful rooms, great food, attentive staff

Shakil from United Kingdom (31 October 2024)

10/10

The rooms were exceptional including all the amenities, 8 different teas was a treat. The natural water bath was excellent. Everything about the facilities (pool, sauna, restaurant, lounge) was top notch but it was the staff that really set the hotel apart, all incredibly helpful and friendly.

David from Australia (27 October 2024)

10/10

Everything. It is heaven.

Rachael from United States (27 August 2024)

10/10

It is impossible not to fall in love with the hotel. The hotel is gorgeous, the food is fantastic and the staff is outstanding. Both Ayana and Okas served top notch food.

What could be improved: Everything was amazing

SURROUNDINGS

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Yashima: 9 km
  • Restaurant Warung Karang: 9 km
  • Restaurant Yakushima Vita Kitchen: 950 m

Natural beauty:

  • Mountain Mount Miyanoura: 12 km*

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Harutahama Beach: 8 km

Closest airports:

  • Yakushima Airport: 17 km
  • Tanegashima Airport: 88 km

ROOMS

  • Estimated price from: $700. Villa with Forest View - Manasa (1F) with 2 single beds for 1 - 1 guests
  • Estimated price from: $759. Villa with Forest View - Manasa (2F) with 2 single beds for 1 - 1 guests
  • Estimated price from: $922. Junior Suite with Sea View with 2 single beds for 1 - 1 guests
  • Estimated price from: $1,910. Suite with Sea View with 2 extra-large double beds for 1 - 2 guests
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FACILITIES

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Alarm clock

General:

  • Shuttle service
  • Adults only
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Designated smoking area
  • Air conditioning
  • Allergy-free room
  • Executive lounge access
  • Wake-up service
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Heating
  • Car hire
  • Lift
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Airport shuttle
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wake up service/Alarm clock
  • Room service

Kitchen:

  • Coffee machine
  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bidet
  • Bath or shower
  • Slippers
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Bathrobe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Outdoor furniture
  • BBQ facilities Additional charge
  • Terrace
  • Garden

Wellness:

  • Fitness classes
  • Yoga classes
  • Fitness
  • Spa/wellness packages
  • Foot bath
  • Spa facilities
  • Sun umbrellas
  • Sun loungers or beach chairs
  • Spa and wellness centre Additional charge
  • Fitness centre

Transport:

  • Public transport tickets Additional charge

Activities:

  • Bicycle rental
  • Bike tours Additional charge
  • Walking tours Additional charge
  • Snorkelling Additional charge Off-site
  • Diving Additional charge Off-site
  • Cycling Off-site
  • Hiking Additional charge Off-site
  • Canoeing Additional charge Off-site
  • Fishing Additional charge Off-site

Living Area:

  • Sofa
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Wine/champagne Additional charge
  • Special diet menus (on request)
  • Breakfast in the room
  • Minibar
  • Restaurant
  • Tea/Coffee maker

Accessibility:

  • Toilet with grab rails
  • Wheelchair accessible

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Clothes rack

Languages spoken:

  • English
  • Japanese
  • Chinese

Cleaning services:

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Trouser press
  • Dry cleaning Additional charge
  • Laundry Additional charge

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV outside property
  • CCTV in common areas
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security alarm
  • Key card access
  • Key access
  • 24-hour security
  • Safety deposit box

Media & Technology:

  • Streaming service (like Netflix)
  • Blu-ray player
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Satellite channels
  • Video
  • DVD player
  • Telephone
  • TV

Reception services:

  • Concierge service
  • Luggage storage
  • 24-hour front desk

Business facilities:

  • Fax/photocopying Additional charge
  • Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge

Most popular facilities:

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Airport shuttle (free)
  • Fitness centre
  • 2 restaurants
  • Free parking
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
  • Breakfast

Outdoor swimming pool Free!:

  • Open all year
  • Pool with view
  • Pool/beach towels
  • Pool bar
  • Sun loungers or beach chairs

Parking Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:

  • Valet parking
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HOUSE RULES

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 20:00
  • You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 04:00 to 12:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.

HOTEL ADDRESS

891-4402 Kagoshima, Yakushima, Mugio 553, Japan

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