Historical
Yakushima - Shiratani Unsuikyo
Chris CooperTake in the magical forest, glimpse mossy boulders, free walking deer and be inspired like the artist from anime file Princess Mononoke,..
Shiratani Unsuikyo
Shiratani Unsuikyo is a natural ravine forest located on Yakushima, in Kagoshima prefecture. Best known for being the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's "Princess Mononoke", Shiratani Unsuikyo is an ancient forest whose moss-covered landscapes make visitors feel as if they stepped into a fantasy world.
The 424-hectare ravine dates back thousands of years, proof of which lies in its ancient cedar trees — Jomonsugi, Yayoisugi, and more. These special cedar trees are marked with a signpost and information about its origins and age. Shiratani's hiking trails are well marked in English and Japanese, with several hiking courses taking anywhere from one to four hours to complete. Although well-maintained, the trails are mostly unpaved; so proper walking shoes are recommended.
Apart from the atmospheric moss forest, the hiking trails also bring visitors to the Taiko-Iwa lookout where you can enjoy a bird's eye view of the picturesque Kyushu mountain landscape.
Shiratani Unsuikyo is located on Yakushima island, which is accessible via a ferry ride from Kagoshima. Yakushima is best explored via rental car, but there are several infrequent public buses as well.
Overview
Address
Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4200 (Map) (Directions)Hours
Open 24 hours Open NowOpening Hours
Monday
Open 24 hours
Tuesday
Open 24 hours
Wednesday
Open 24 hours
Thursday
Open 24 hours
Friday
Open 24 hours
Saturday
Open 24 hours
Sunday
Open 24 hours
Holidays
Open 24 hours
Price
¥500
Phone Number
+81997423508Website
General Amenities
- Free guides/pamphlets
Payment Method
- Pay by cash
Access
30-minute drive from Miyanoura Port
35-minute bus ride from Miyanoura Port
Related Articles
2 articles
12
Activities
Yakushima's Shiratani Unsuikyo
Peter SidellOn the rainforest island of Yakushima south of Kagoshima on Japan's Kyushu island, Shiratani Unsuikyo is an area of ancient..
Reviews
Help rate this location
Your experience helps others planning their trip
Shiratani Unsuikyo
Near Shiratani Unsuikyo
Japanese
Minshuku Umikawa, Yakushima
Close to Miyanoura port on Japan's Yakushima rainforest island, Minshuku Umikawa is a comfortable, convenient and inexpens..
8
Food
Strange, Tasty Food In Yakushima
Most of these things can only be eaten while on the island of Yakushima! Go for it!
Historical
Yakushima - Jomon Sugi
Follow a forest trek leading to Jomon Sugi, a magnificent beast of a tree that is 2000 - 7000 years old
Nightlife
Shunsai Tokitei Izakaya, Miyanoura
In Miyanoura on the rainforest island Yakushima, south of Kagoshima on Japan's Kyushu island, Shunsai Tokitei is a fun, lively..
Culture
Yakushima Culture Village Center
On Japan's rainforest island Yakushima, the Environmental Culture Village Center is a one-stop information center and exhibition..