The Shiratani Unsuikyo Trail #yakushima #japan #solotravel #hike #princessmononoke Tagged location:

@zoee

The Shiratani Unsuikyo Trail #yakushima #japan #solotravel #hike #princessmononoke Tagged location:0:50

Hike through the ancient, moss-covered forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo on Yakushima island, known for inspiring Princess Mononoke. Expect challenging climbs, stunning views, and thousands-year-old cedar trees.

2 places · 1 experience

1
Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
Ferry terminal · Yakushima
4.1 (62)
Creator's voice
The main bus stop at Miyanoura Port, where you can catch the first bus to the Shiratani Unsuikyo trailhead. It's a key starting point for many visitors to Yakushima.
Yakushima(Miyanoura)Port, Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4205, Japan
Experience · 1 place
Hiking the Shiratani Unsuikyo Trail
Come hike through the Princess Mononoke forest with me! The scenery is incredible, with trees and rocks covered in so much moss, making it feel truly magical. Be prepared for a lot of climbing up slippery rocks and tree roots, so good hiking shoes are a must. You'll also find moments of peace along the trail, and encounter ancient cedar trees that are thousands of years old, forming natural arches and pathways. The views on the bus ride up were insane, so keep an eye out for those too. Fog can roll in, adding to the mystical atmosphere, but don't worry, there aren't any bears on the island!
- Forest frog — Found a little friend, a small frog, camouflaged among the moss and leaves on the forest floor. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife!
- Mountain and ocean views from bus — The views going up the mountain on the bus were insane, offering panoramic vistas of the lush green mountainsides meeting the ocean. A beautiful start to the hike.
- Moss-covered trees and rocks — The scenery is dominated by trees and rocks covered with so much moss, creating a mystical, ancient atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
- Slippery rock and root climbs — A lot of the trail involves climbing up slippery rocks and exposed tree roots. It can be challenging but adds to the adventurous feel of the hike. Wear appropriate footwear.
- Ancient cedar trees — The cedar trees are thousands of years old, with massive, gnarled roots and trunks that form natural tunnels and pathways along the trail. They are a highlight of the forest.
- Foggy forest atmosphere — Fog started to roll in during the hike, adding to the ethereal and mysterious ambiance of the ancient forest. It makes the experience even more immersive.
2
Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine
Scenic spot · Yakushima
4.7 (31)Closed
Creator's voice
A lush, moss-covered ancient forest on Yakushima island, famous for inspiring the Studio Ghibli film 'Princess Mononoke'. It features ancient cedar trees, clear streams, and challenging hiking trails with slippery rocks and roots. Entry is free, but a bus ride is required to reach the trailhead.
Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4200, Japan