Underrated Cruise Destinations That Aren’t Overrun by Tourists

25. Yakushima, Japan – Japan’s Enchanted Island

For those seeking a completely unique cruise stop, Yakushima, a small subtropical island in Japan, is a dreamlike destination filled with ancient forests, misty mountains, and rare wildlife. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is home to some of Japan’s oldest cedar trees, including the famous Jōmon Sugi, estimated to be over 7,000 years old. Yakushima’s otherworldly landscapes are said to have inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli’s film "Princess Mononoke", and stepping into its moss-covered forests feels like walking into a real-life fairytale. The island is crisscrossed with hiking trails, leading visitors through lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and sacred shrines hidden deep in the woods. Beyond its forests, Yakushima also offers secluded beaches, where lucky visitors can witness endangered loggerhead sea turtles nesting between May and August. The island’s coastal onsen (hot springs), like Hirauchi Kaichū Onsen, allow travelers to soak in natural thermal waters while gazing at the ocean.