Shiratani Unsui Gorge — Attraction in Yakushima

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...

We hiked from Shiratani, through Kusugawa junction, till the Arakawa trail entrance. It took 5 hours, including numerous stops to take pictures and relax. I am a regular hiker, and it was the more serene hike ever for me. The forest is very natural. The layers of moss all over the trees, stones, bridges, give it a spectacular vibe. There are numerous streams flowing down the mountains. These streams are the reason for the moss. Also, these streams lead to many tiny water falls here and there. Also, they carry totally pristine and transparent water. Some people say that this water is even good for drinking.

Very convenient and safe too. We spotted a few deers and monkeys though. The monkeys didn't get bothered from our presence, while the deers ran away afraid on seeing us.

The trail from Shiratani to the Rock is a bit busy. It is quite lonely but very natural and serene from the rock till Kusugawa junction. This part is where we encountered the deers and monkeys. From Kusugawa junction till the Arakawa trail entrance, there is a old rail/trolly track. There also comes the ruins of an old settlement in this region. So, all three parts of the trek give different vibes. You also come across multiple mountain huts if you want to rest. These huts can mainly be seen from Shiratani till the rock though. Overall, it was great and...

An incredible experience. This tranquil place is inspirational to walk through and leaves a lasting impression on your mind. This is the place that inspired the film 'Princess Mononoke'.

There's so much to see. I saw monkeys on the way in, and the entrance has a beautiful waterfall that's worth the drive for that alone. There's lots of mossy rocks and trees, several Japanese trees whose age dates back to around the years of the Roman Republic, and lots of waterfalls and streams.

Some of the paths have steep climbs, and it was physically challenging in parts, though I had no hiking gear bar the boots. Hiking poles would've made the return journey more enjoyable.

Recommended times on the map are conservative. I did the longest walk which recommends 4 hrs, though even with many photo breaks and some rest it was still only about 3 hrs or less.

Time the course you want to do depending on your fitness level, and climbing confidence. If you want to give yourself time and do multiple trails, go first thing in the morning and pack water and snacks. Though one water bottle is enough as the water from the streams...