“Civilised rest in a remote environment.”

The staff were phenomenal. Nothing was too much trouble and in keeping with Japanese hospitality everywhere we have been, they genuinely seem to want to deliver great service, but not in a subservient way.

“Where Luxury Meets Nature”

Our stay at Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima was absolutely top class and exceeded all expectations. From the moment we arrived, everything about the experience felt thoughtful, refined, and genuinely warm. The setting is stunning and peaceful, the rooms are beautifully designed and immaculately maintained, and every detail reflects a level of quality and care that is truly world-class. The service deserves special mention! Attentive without being intrusive, sincere, and consistently excellent throughout our stay. Dining was outstanding, with beautifully prepared meals that showcased both quality ingredients and creativity. After full days exploring Yakushima, returning to Sankara felt like coming back to a sanctuary - calm, comfortable, and deeply relaxing. I regret not noting the sommelier’s name, but would love to give a special shout-out for his attentiveness and excellent pairings (alcohol and non-alcohol), thoughtfully tailored for both me and my son. This was one of the best hotel experiences we’ve ever had. Highly recommended in every aspect, and we would not hesitate to return.

“Dream hotel & spa to die for”

Where to start..? The staff were exceptional: hotel, restaurants and - especially - spa. Hayakawa-san and her colleagues in the spa were superlatively skilled and accommodating; I really can't praise them enough. Otherwise, the facilities were all we could want, with bikes, cars, even shoe-dryers (!) all on tap. Incredible.

“Just fantastic. We will surely come again.”

Very comfortable and elegant room with private spa. The food was excellent and all staff were very friendly, superb really. Car rental was also very easy and to a reasonable price. It is a world class hotel.

“We absolutely loved the place!”

Beautiful location, fantastic warm, welcoming and helpful staff. Food was all outstanding, especially at Okas restaurant, breakfast had a great variety of foods and fabulous pastries and breads. The pool was lovely and refreshing after a day sightseeing. Drinks on the terrace or in the lounge too……

“A Truly Unforgettable Stay – Luxury, Nature, and Heartfelt Hospitality.”

My stay at Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the ancient forests of Yakushima, the resort blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, offering a rare mix of refined luxury and deep tranquility. The suite was elegant and serene, with panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding forest. Every detail—from the warm wood interiors to the handmade amenities—reflected thoughtful design and a deep respect for the island. One of the most unforgettable moments of my stay happened on the last night. That evening at Okas, I was surprised with a beautiful, celebratory dessert presented with a glowing candle and warm, sincere birthday wishes from the staff. It was unexpected, tasteful, and so deeply personal—it truly touched me. And just when I thought the evening couldn’t get any more special, I returned to my suite to find towel swans gracefully arranged on the table with a handwritten birthday card waiting for me. That quiet, intimate moment of returning to the room and seeing such care taken just for me is something I’ll never forget. The staff at Sankara are exceptional—attentive without being intrusive, intuitive, and genuinely kind. They made sure that everything flowed effortlessly throughout my stay. The spa treatments were the perfect complement to the island’s hikes and nature trails—soothing, grounding, and restorative. Sankara isn’t just a hotel—it’s an experience that nourishes the body, mind, and heart. I left with incredible memories, especially of a birthday that was made unforgettable not through extravagance, but through sincerity, grace, and heartfelt attention.

“our best ever experience”

This stay was simply our best experience ever. Best location, best service, best Japanese cooking, and foremost the most efficient and kind help from the whole staff to organise journeys, hikes and other experiences

“Perfect”

A beautiful location, amazing services, very comfortable villas and wonderful, welcoming staff. Couldn’t have asked for any more.

“Great Hotel in YAKUSHIMA”

This is very nice property. Mainly I can mention the large, comfortable and extremely clean villa. Amassing service of the staff The Delicious food in all restaurants mainly the OKAS restaurant

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

“the hotel is the destination”

good spa，good service，good view

“very pleasant trip”

“Excellent 4 night stay while exploring Yakushima. Great location and staff”

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.

Beautiful rooms, great food, attentive staff

“Superior hotel in an amazing setting”

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.

“Possibly the best hotel we have ever stayed at.”

Everything. It is heaven.

“The most memorable experience.”

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.

“An oasis on a wonderful island”

The staff at the Sankara gave exceptional service and high-quality meals. We went on a hike one day, and when we got back, they had drawn a bath, perfectly timed after 6 hours of walking. They accommodated our vegetarian daughter, and the room was impeccable and had everything you would ever need, from razors and power strips to nice speakers, ample storage, excellent lighting, and much more. If you enjoy nature and hiking and are looking for a beautiful resort to relax in, this is the place. The pool is also wonderful.

Staff were amazing

the location and island was amazing- staff was extremely nice, reactive and helpful.