This place was so beautiful and serene. The hike to the moss covered forest was challenging but rewarding with the beautiful scenery. Good hiking shoes is a must as it could be muddy and good grip is needed for climbing up and down the rocks in some sections. Highly recommend bringing snacks or a packaged meal to eat at a rest break for fuel. The hike to the moss forest and back took us around 4 hours! There are bathrooms before you begin your hike and I highly recommend bringing water!
Did the Taikowa Rock round trip course today. Early part of the trail requires a small detour as the route shared by the two cedar courses is currently closed due to maintenance.
What an amazing experience! The trail combines a good challenge with amazing nature and great sights. Definitely a must-do if you’re on these parts.
The ground can be slippery due to both wet rocks and tangling roots, in particular after rain. So bring proper equipment. The final stretch to Taikowa rock is a steep climb - but worth it if you’re up to the challenge. Note that the view over the mountains may be limited in foggy weather (see pictures). Still, I’d say it is worth it.
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is a breathtaking paradise that has been on my bucket list since 1997, when I first learned that this ancient forest inspired the enchanted woods in Miyazaki’s "Princess Mononoke." Finally visiting this magical place exceeded all my expectations and left me in awe of its natural beauty.
As soon as you enter the gorge, you are enveloped by a serene atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world. The towering trees, some of which are thousands of years old, create a majestic canopy that filters the sunlight, casting a soft, dappled glow on the forest floor. The air is fresh and invigorating, infused with the earthy scent of moss and rich vegetation.
The forest is renowned for its vibrant moss, which blankets the rocks and tree trunks in a lush green carpet. This enchanting sight adds a mystical quality to the surroundings, making you feel as if you are wandering through a fairy tale. It’s truly a photographer’s dream, with countless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature at its finest.
One of the highlights of Shiratani Unsui Gorge is the crystal-clear water flowing through the rivers and streams. The water is so pure that you can drink it straight from the river, a testament to the pristine environment that this area boasts. Sipping on the cool, refreshing water while taking in the breathtaking views was a moment I will cherish forever.
The trails are well-maintained and offer varying levels of difficulty, making it accessible for everyone from casual walkers to seasoned hikers. No matter how far you venture, the tranquility of the forest and the soothing sounds of nature create a deeply calming experience.
Overall, Shiratani Unsui Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. It’s a magical place that truly captures the essence of what makes Yakushima so special. I can't recommend it highly enough! Whether you’re a fan of Miyazaki’s films or simply looking for a breathtaking escape into nature, this ancient forest will leave you enchanted and longing to return.
Stunning hiking trail and National Park. As at January 2025, still only a single route available to walk due to trail damage. The 3 hour time frame was accurate for our group at a medium pace and stopping to take photos regularly. The track is lovingly maintained, but is gravel/rocks/river crossings so proper shoes are necessity. Borrow a walking stick at the entry. Even on a day with no rain forecast, it rained and hailed 3 times - wet weather gear essential. For those with limited mobility, the first section of the current route (approx 30mins walking) is a combination of paved path and wooden steps leading to two bridges crossing beautiful waterfalls and cascades. This section alone is worth the trip. Access with a car was very easy.
This is the place—yep, the magical mossy forest from Princess Mononoke! Shiratani Unsui Gorge is absolutely majestic. Whether it's sunny or raining, the whole place looks like a dream, with huge ancient cedars and soft green moss everywhere. It feels fresh, peaceful, and just super cool. You don’t even need to hike all the way to the super famous sugi (which honestly looks a bit soggy haha). Just plan around 5 to 6 hours, focus on the Moss Forest trail, and take your time. It’s not hard, and there are plenty of lovely spots to rest or snap photos. One of the most enjoyable hikes ever!
