First amassing information before sightseeing
The center is a general information facility for Yakushima located at the entrance of Miyanoura Port. Information relating to the nature and culture of the island is supplied and exchanged here. It is used as a tourist facility for free where information on things such as the island’s nature, climate, traffic, culture and lifestyle can be obtained through maps, videos, personal computers, etc. and even the Wi-Fi is free to use. At the souvenir shop inside the center, almost all of the specialty goods symbolizing Yakushima can be gotten here, along with books and other information on things such the island’s geological features, plant life, and fish. The café area is a large glass-enclosed space with a view of Miyanoura Port where you can not only enjoy tea and coffee, but also a menu with dishes such as flying fish on rice and curry.
Can’t miss the spectacular video and easy-to-understand exhibits
In the admission-required area, there is an exhibit hall and a large video hall, either of which can be used to learn in detail about the nature and culture of Yakushima so it is definitely the place to deepen your knowledge during your tour. In the video hall, there is a 25-minute presentation of “Yakushima: A Symphony of Woods and Water” which can display subtitles in Korean, Chinese, English, French and Spanish. There is spectacular footage on the big screen so that the nature of Yakushima is dynamically introduced. In the exhibit hall, an atrium makes use of models and panels in a display method which lets you experience things with your eyes and ears through the simple introduction of everything from the sea around Yakushima through the villages and woods up to the mountain top. There are many displays in the center arranged in a quiz format so that you can learn about Yakushima and have fun at the same time, too. You will want to drop by the center first before taking on any sightseeing of the island.