【Kagoshima】A moss-covered forest said to have inspired the setting of Princess Mononoke

Yakushima, located in the southern part of Kagoshima Prefecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the famous Jomon Sugi cedar is a must-see, another stunning spot is Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, known for its lush moss-covered scenery. From the port, you can take a bus heading to Shiratani Unsuikyo. The entrance to the gorge is located after a climb along a mountain road. Upon arrival, you pay a 500-yen fee and receive an explanation of the route and safety precautions. The trail includes some challenging sections, such as crossing cliffs and streams, but overall, it was relatively easy to hike. After about two and a half hours of walking with breaks, I reached the moss-covered forest. The area is filled with ancient tree stumps and rocks densely covered in moss, with a cool breeze flowing through the air. It’s incredibly beautiful, so if the Jomon Sugi hike seems too demanding, visiting Shiratani Unsuikyo might be a great alternative.