Yakushima,
Miyazaki's inspiration
The island is home to ancient cedar forests with some of the country’s oldest trees. These millenia old trees, also called yakusugi, dominate the mystical and untouched environment, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Nature enthusiasts and avid hikers visit the island to journey through the lush, mountainous, and moss-covered forests where they can detach themselves from the busyness of life and reconnect with nature. Due to Yakushima’s wet climate, the island is also abundant in rivers, ravines, and impressive waterfalls.
Serious hikers can embark on a multi-day hike up to Mount Miyanoura’s summit, which is the tallest peak in Kyushu and considered by locals to be a spiritual journey. With its stunning and treasured environment, it is no surprise that Yakushima inspired the setting of Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.
Sigthseeing
My favourite spots in Yakushima
Shiratani Unsuikyo
The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine (白谷雲水峡, Shiratani Unsuikyō) is a lush, green nature park containing a number of the island's ancient cedars. It is built over an Edo Period footpath.
Get there from:
Miyanoura
What I like about it
The beauty and energy of this place are almost overwhelming. Although it is a very popular hike, you could still find numerous moments full of peace.
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Yakusugi Land
Yakusugi Land (屋久杉ランド) is a nature park populated by a number of yakusugi (1000+ year old Yakushima Cedars), along with a series of well developed trails that lead through them.
Get there from:
Anbo
What I like about it
The park is one of the most accessible places on Yakushima to see the ancient cedar trees accommodating nearly any hiking ability.
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Oko no taki Waterfall
Oko-no-taki Waterfall (大川の滝) is the tallest waterfall on the island. It is a spectacularly beautiful fall and has been included in the list of the 100 most beautiful waterfalls of Japan.
Get there from:
Hirauchi
What I like about it
The last stop of the bus line, going there is a wonderful excuse to explore the whole island. Visiting it is a must.
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