Yakushima & Tanegashima - A heartwarming adventure of nature and science

Sea turtle nesting season is at its peak during this period. For the first three days of our stay in the southwest of the island, a local guide will take us to a secret observation spot. We might even see baby turtles hatching at the same time the sea turtles are laying eggs!

The Tanegashima Space Center, which plays a crucial role in Japan's space projects, is Japan's largest rocket launch site. This is a precious opportunity to actually visit the center and experience the cosmic scale.

Yakushima is best known for its mountains. It is home to Mount Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu at 1,936 meters, along with a series of mountains over 1,000 meters high. The island is unique for its “vertical climate zones,” where subtropical to subarctic environments are distributed by altitude. Participants are given plenty of time to explore and experience this extraordinary natural environment on foot.

This program is co-organized with HUB&LABO Yakushima, a specified non-profit organization that conducts nature education activities in Yakushima. Local children will also participate on the same dates, making irreplaceable memories while deepening their interactions and friendships.

Yakushima is an island that condenses Japan's ecosystems, including the sea, forests, rivers, and flora and fauna. By stepping foot onto this World Natural Heritage site, we will consider what we can do in the future world, by appreciating the greatness and fleetingness of nature, while also turning our attention to environmental issues.

It's rare to have the experience of being away from your parents for a week in your daily life. You may encounter difficulties along the way, and there may be moments when you want to go home. It's a valuable time to help each other with your companions, face yourself, and grow stronger through a journey that isn't always fun.