How do I get to Shiratani Unsuikyo?

The ravine is accessible by bus or car from Miyanoura or Anbo on Yakushima Island. The nearest airport is Yakushima Airport, and there are ferry services to the island from Kagoshima.

Do I need a guide to explore Shiratani Unsuikyo?

While a guide is not mandatory, hiring one can enhance your visit by providing insights into the park's ecology, history, and paths less traveled. Trails are marked, allowing for self-guided tours as well.

What are the main attractions in Shiratani Unsuikyo?

Key attractions include the ancient cedars such as Yayoi Sugi and Tsuji Toge Pass, moss-covered forests, and the Taiko Iwa rock. It's also famous for its trails, including the path that inspired the setting for "Princess Mononoke."

Is there an entrance fee for Shiratani Unsuikyo?

Yes, there is a small entrance fee to help maintain and conserve the park. The fee helps preserve the area's natural beauty for future generations.

What should I bring for a hike in Shiratani Unsuikyo?

Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, rain gear, and a map of the trails. Also, remember to carry out what you bring to protect the environment.

Yakushima

Shiratani Unsuikyo

4.7 (1579)Scenic SpotHiking AreaSports Activity LocationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Shiratani Unsuikyo is a primeval forest gorge located in the mountainous interior of Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. The ravine sits at elevations between 600 and 1,050 meters above sea level and covers approximately 424 hectares of protected forest. The area gained protection in 1979 when it was designated as a Natural Recreation Forest by the Japanese Forestry Agency, recognizing its exceptional natural value and pristine ancient woodland.

The forest is renowned for its extraordinarily dense moss coverage, with over 100 species of moss blanketing the granite boulders, tree trunks, and forest floor in a thick emerald carpet. This verdant landscape famously inspired the forest settings in Studio Ghibli's acclaimed film Princess Mononoke, with director Hayao Miyazaki visiting the gorge during production research in the mid-1990s. The forest represents one of Japan's best-preserved examples of warm-temperate rainforest, containing ancient yakusugi cedar trees, some estimated to be over 1,000 years old, alongside a rich diversity of endemic plant species found only on Yakushima.

Visitors can explore the forest through a network of maintained walking trails offering varying levels of difficulty. The most popular route is the 1-kilometer Yayoisugi Course, a gentle 1-hour loop suitable for casual walkers that passes significant ancient cedars including the Yayoisugi tree, estimated at 3,000 years old.

The 3-kilometer Bugyo Course requires approximately 3 hours and leads deeper into the forest to additional ancient cedars. The most challenging option is the 4-hour trek to Taikoiwa Rock, a granite outcrop providing panoramic views across the island's mountainous terrain. All trails feature wooden boardwalks and steps to protect the fragile forest ecosystem while allowing access.

The gorge is accessible by road from the main settlements of Miyanoura and Anbo, located approximately 12 kilometers from the entrance. Regular buses operate from both towns, with the journey taking around 35 minutes. Visitors traveling by rental car will find a parking area at the trailhead. Admission to the forest costs 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children.

Phone

+81 997-42-3508

Website

y-rekumori.com

Overview

Address

Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4200, Japan

Places & attractions near Shiratani Unsuikyo

A waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs surrounded by lush green mountains under a vibrant sunset sky with orange and pink clouds.

Senpiro-no-taki Waterfall

A large white ferry docked at a concrete pier under a partly cloudy sky, with a gangway extended for boarding and green grass visible on the left side.

Port Miyanoura

Water cascades down a rocky waterfall surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation, flowing into a stream with large rocks in the foreground. Sunlight gently illuminates the upper part of the scene.

Ohko-no-taki Waterfall

A stone path winds through a lush, green forest with moss-covered trees, ferns, and dense vegetation under filtered sunlight.

Mt. Tachudake

Places & attractions near Shiratani Unsuikyo

Senpiro-no-taki Waterfall

Port Miyanoura

Ohko-no-taki Waterfall

Mt. Tachudake

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Fabulous walk through the gorge and on through the forest. The current walk can be completed in an hour with little effort. The drive up is stunning if a little nerve wracking in places. Well worth a visit.

Judy OBrien

Dec 26, 2025

Shiratani Unsui Gorge in Yakushima is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited. The moss-covered forest feels like stepping into a fantasy world — no wonder it inspired Princess Mononoke. The air is fresh, the sound of running water is soothing, and every corner looks like a scene from a movie. Even in light rain, the mist adds to the mystical atmosphere. The hike can be a bit challenging, but it’s completely worth it. A truly unforgettable experience in Yakushima.

If you're a fan of Hayao Miyazaki's films—especially *Princess Mononoke*—then this place is perfect for you. Whether it's raining or the sun is shining, everything is beautiful.

Beautiful forest very nice trail to walk it’s not very hard or to steep so that’s Nice some part are closed at the moment because of floods so it’s not save to go there but the nicest/longest trail is still good to go. Price is 500 yen you get a map at the entrens

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!