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Private Shiratani Unsuikyo Half-Day Trek (Moss Forest)

4.50· 41 reviews

Highlights

Explore the mystical Moss Forest (Mononoke Forest) in Shiratani Unsuikyo on this half-day course
Ends around 12:00, giving you the afternoon free to enjoy Yakushima
Includes pick-up and drop-off in the Miyanoura–Anbo area

What to expect

Certified by the Ministry of the Environment, this easy Shiratani Unsuikyo trek offers mystical views of moss-covered trees and ancient stumps.

What's included

Pick-up and drop-off / Trekking Guide Fee

Packages (2)

Standard PlanDailyfrom USD 40.20

Private Charter Plan (July–November)Dailyfrom USD 281.38

Schedule

Pick-up at your accommodation
◆Important Notes
*Exact pick-up time will be confirmed by the guide the day before.
*This is a private tour. Selecting "Private guide" from the options is required.
Arrive at Shiratani Unsuikyo Trailhead
Iwai-no-Ōiwa → Hiryuu Otoshi → Satsuki Suspension Bridge
Admire the massive rock, roaring waterfall, and pristine river below the bridge.
Kusugawa Trail → Junction → Kuguri Sugi
A cedar with a tunnel-like root you can walk through—formed by decayed fallen trees.
Shiratani Mountain Hut → Nanahon Sugi
This simple mountain shelter provides fresh spring water and is sometimes visited by Yakushima deer. Passing Nanahon Sugi, with its wide-spreading branches, you enter the mystical world of Princess Mononoke.
Mossy Forest (Mononoke Forest)
Said to have inspired the Ghibli film Princess Mononoke, this magical moss-covered forest feels like a living painting—calm, lush, and otherworldly.
Shiratani Trailhead
Around 12:00 Drop-off at your accommodation

Restrictions

Pregnant individuals cannot participate in this tour.
This tour is intended for foreign guests who can communicate in basic everyday Japanese.
Please make sure to call the tour operator after arriving in Yakushima to confirm your participation. If no contact is made, the booking may be automatically canceled.
The pick-up time shown at the time of booking is tentative. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed the day before the tour.
About the Pick-up Area:
The Miyanoura–Anbo area refers to accommodations with addresses in Yakushima Town: Miyanoura, Kusukawa, Koseta, Funayuki, and Anbo.
Participants must be at least first grade in elementary school.

What to bring

Clothing:
Wear lightweight, quick-drying synthetic clothing suitable for movement.
Bring extra socks in case they get wet.
What to Bring:
・Backpack
・Rain gear (separate jacket and pants preferred)
・Folding umbrella
・Hiking boots
・Flashlight or headlamp
・Packed meals (breakfast and lunch)
・Water bottle
・Work gloves
・Towel
・Change of clothes (e.g., shirt, socks) packed in a waterproof bag
・Snacks such as candy or chocolate for energy
Pocket tissues
Wet wipes
An additional conservation fee is required:
Shiratani Unsuikyo Forest Maintenance Fee: ¥800

Other requirements

Guests with physical disabilities or medical conditions are kindly requested to inform the tour operator when making a reservation.
Participation may be refused at the guide’s discretion if a guest’s clothing, physical condition, or behavior is deemed inappropriate or disruptive to others. In such cases, no refunds will be issued.
Should the guide judge that a guest's attire is unsuitable for trekking, participation may be declined for the guest and all accompanying members of the same group.

Additional notes

As the trekking tour involves a long duration, please take extra care of your health and safety throughout the tour.
The tour may be canceled or the course may be altered due to weather, road conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Pick-up and drop-off are available only at the same location (hotel).
If the drop-off location differs from the pick-up point, drop-off service will not be provided. Thank you for your understanding.
Guests staying outside the Anbo–Miyanoura area are asked to make their own way to a designated pick-up point within that area.
The exact meeting location will be arranged after booking.
If the tour is canceled after departure due to weather or other conditions, no refund will be provided.
Participation may be declined at the guide’s discretion if a guest’s clothing, physical condition, or behavior is deemed unsuitable or disruptive to others. In such cases, no refund will be provided.
The tour will be guided mainly in basic English. If communication becomes difficult, translation apps will be used to assist.

Operated by

yakushimanowa (Code:197120)

Cancellation policy

2-3 business days before (by 5:00 PM local time): 50%
After 5:00 PM the day before / No-show: 100%

Reviews

4.50

41 reviews

527

412

Guest photos 29

To the Forest of Princess Mononoke

Posted Date: 2026/06/01

赤トンボ

I participated with my 7-year-old and 10-year-old daughters as a family. We were blessed with great weather, making it a comfortable day for hiking and climbing. Shiratani Unsuikyo is famous for being the forest from "Princess Mononoke," but we enjoyed wonderful views along the mountain paths as well. We fully enjoyed the great nature that Yakushima has to offer. The half-day tour is recommended for those who may not have much physical strength or for families with children. Next time, when the … I participated with my 7-year-old and 10-year-old daughters as a family. We were blessed with great weather, making it a comfortable day for hiking and climbing. Shiratani Unsuikyo is famous for being the forest from "Princess Mononoke," but we enjoyed wonderful views along the mountain paths as well. We fully enjoyed the great nature that Yakushima has to offer. The half-day tour is recommended for those who may not have much physical strength or for families with children. Next time, when the kids are older, I would like to challenge ourselves to reach Taiko Rock. 7歳と10歳の娘達と家族で参加しました。天気に恵まれ、快適なハイキング・山登り日和でした。白谷雲水峡はもののけ姫の森で有名ですが、途中の山道でも素晴らしい景色が堪能できました。屋久島らしい大自然を満喫しました。半日ツアーは体力に自信のない人や子連れの方にもオススメです。
次回は子供達が大きくなったら太鼓岩までチャレンジしたいと思います。

Machine translated from Japanese

I walked a lot.

Posted Date: 2025/11/12

ごんごん

It was the day after the Jomon Sugi tour, so I was worried about whether I could keep up physically, but it was such a fun tour that those worries disappeared. As a beginner with no mountain climbing experience, I appreciated the consideration given to that aspect. They warned us in advance about slippery stones and branches that could hit our heads, which made me feel safe. During the tour, we also did quizzes and learned a lot about Yakushima from their extensive knowledge, and I was laughing … It was the day after the Jomon Sugi tour, so I was worried about whether I could keep up physically, but it was such a fun tour that those worries disappeared. As a beginner with no mountain climbing experience, I appreciated the consideration given to that aspect. They warned us in advance about slippery stones and branches that could hit our heads, which made me feel safe. During the tour, we also did quizzes and learned a lot about Yakushima from their extensive knowledge, and I was laughing the whole time until we safely returned to the parking lot. I'm really grateful to Tsugimura-san for being our guide. 縄文杉ツアーの翌日でしたので、体力的に付いていけるか心配でしたが、そんな不安も吹き飛ぶほどの楽しいツアーでした。
山登りの経験もない初心者ですので、その辺りもお気遣いいただいたと思います。
滑りやすい石や、頭をぶつけそうな枝は事前に声掛けしてくださって、安心でした。
ツアーの道中もクイズをしたり、豊富な知識で屋久島の事を教えていただき、本当にずっと笑いっぱなしで無事駐車場まで戻りました。津曲さんがご担当くださって本当に感謝です。

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear Gon Gon,

Thank you for participating in the Shiratani Unsuikyo trekking and for sharing your experience.

I’m glad to hear that you were able to enjoy walking through Shiratani Unsuikyo without any injuries after participating in the Jomon Sugi tour with another company the day before. Yakushima is full of attractions, not just the forests, but also the sea, rivers, and starry skies, so please come back to visit us again.

Sincerely,
Your guide, Tsugimuraごんごん様

この度は白谷雲水峡トレッキングにご参加頂き、そして体験談の投稿ありがとうございます。

前日は違う会社で縄文杉ツアーに参加され2日間連続のトレッキングでしたが、怪我無くそして楽しく白谷雲水峡を歩けたようで良かったです。
屋久島は森だけではなく、海・川・星空と見どころ満載ですので、また遊びに来てくださいね。

担当ガイド　津曲

Machine translated from Japanese

Shiratani Unsuikyo

Posted Date: 2023/12/23

60代夫婦

Since there were no other participants besides us, we had a trekking experience where adjustments were made to the meeting place and walking pace. While walking, we enjoyed explanations about Yakushima's history and nature, as well as time for taking photos and having our pictures taken. Thank you very much for the wonderful time.私達以外の参加者が、たまたま居なかったので集合場所の変更や歩く速度の調整をしていただきながらのトレッキングとなりました。歩きながら、屋久島の歴史や自然などを説明していただいたり、写真撮影の時間を取ったり、撮影していただいたりと楽しい時間を過ごさせていただきました。有難う御座いました。

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear couple in your 60s,

Thank you for participating in the Shiratani Unsuikyo trekking and for sharing your experience with us.

This time you walked the moss-covered forest round trip, but we encourage you to challenge yourself to reach Taiko Rock next time.

On a clear day, you can enjoy the view of the foreground, and in spring, the mountain cherry blossoms are a must-see.

We sincerely look forward to your next visit to the island.

Sincerely,
Guide Minoda

Yakushima Road Station Tourism
Manager T… Dear couple in your 60s,

Thank you for participating in the Shiratani Unsuikyo trekking and for sharing your experience with us.

This time you walked the moss-covered forest round trip, but we encourage you to challenge yourself to reach Taiko Rock next time.

On a clear day, you can enjoy the view of the foreground, and in spring, the mountain cherry blossoms are a must-see.

We sincerely look forward to your next visit to the island.

Sincerely,
Guide Minoda

Yakushima Road Station Tourism
Manager Tsugimura 60代夫婦様

返信が遅く成りましたが、白谷雲水峡トレッキングにご参加頂き、体験談の投稿も頂きありがとうございます。

今回は苔むす森往復を歩かれましたが、次回はさらに先にある太鼓岩までチャレンジして下さい。

晴れたら前景が見れますし、春は山桜が見れお勧めです。

それではまたのご来島を心よりお待ちしております。

担当ガイド　箕田

屋久島道の駅観光
責任者　津曲

Machine translated from Japanese

It was very good.

Posted Date: 2023/03/06

リー君

There were a total of 7 participants on the tour, and the veteran guide subtly matched our pace, allowing us to enjoy the tour. Thank you very much.ツアー参加計７名、ベテランのガイドさんは歩調をさりげなく合わせて下さり、楽しくツアーに参加できました。ありがとうございました。

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear Mr. Lee,

Thank you very much for participating in the trekking tour and for sharing your experience.

It seems there were many participants, with a total of seven, and I'm glad to hear you had a great time walking.

This time, you went to the mossy forest round trip, but if the weather is good, you can enjoy the best views from Taiko Rock beyond that, so we sincerely look forward to your next visit to the island.

Guide: Urakami

Yakushima Road Station Tourism
Manager: Tsugimachiリー君様

この度は、トレッキングツアーにご参加頂き、そして体験談を投稿頂き、誠にありがとうございました。

参加者が7名と多かったようですが、楽しく歩かれて良かったですね。

今回は、苔むす森往復でしたが、そこから先にある太鼓岩は天気が良ければ最高の景色が見れますので、
またご来島を心よりお待ちしております。

担当ガイド：浦西

屋久島道の駅観光
責任者：津曲

Machine translated from Japanese

I had a great time even as a solo female traveler.

Posted Date: 2021/03/23

かよちゃん

I usually don't exercise at all, but since the pace was adjusted to a slow one, I was able to go back and forth without getting tired at all. There was only one restroom stop along the way, so I think it's better to manage your hydration while progressing.

Although I made a last-minute reservation, I discussed the weather and decided on the participation date. Additionally, I was informed that they could take me directly to a hot spring near the airport, so I think the trekking on the final day … I usually don't exercise at all, but since the pace was adjusted to a slow one, I was able to go back and forth without getting tired at all. There was only one restroom stop along the way, so I think it's better to manage your hydration while progressing.

Although I made a last-minute reservation, I discussed the weather and decided on the participation date. Additionally, I was informed that they could take me directly to a hot spring near the airport, so I think the trekking on the final day is also possible. 日常まったく運動をしない自分ですが、ゆっくりペースを合わせて頂けたので、まったく疲れなく往復することができました。途中トイレは１回箇所だけなので、水分調節はしながら進んだ方がよいかと思います。
直前の予約でしたが、天候の相談をして参加日を決めました。また、相談したところ、そのまま空港近くの温泉にも送っていただけるようなので、最終日のトレッキングも可能かと思います。

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear Kayo-chan,

Thank you very much for participating in the trekking tour and for sharing your experience.

Since you joined us in January, it can be challenging to manage hydration on cold days.

When in a mixed group, we usually walk at a pace that accommodates everyone, but since you were the only customer this time, I believe the guide adjusted to your pace. After the trekking, we also provide transportation to your accommodation, as well as to the port, airport, and hot springs, within reasonab… Dear Kayo-chan,

Thank you very much for participating in the trekking tour and for sharing your experience.

Since you joined us in January, it can be challenging to manage hydration on cold days.

When in a mixed group, we usually walk at a pace that accommodates everyone, but since you were the only customer this time, I believe the guide adjusted to your pace. After the trekking, we also provide transportation to your accommodation, as well as to the port, airport, and hot springs, within reasonable limits.

We sincerely look forward to your next visit to the island.

Sincerely,
Guide Urakami

Yakushima Road Station Tourism
Manager: Tsugimachi かよちゃん様

この度は、トレッキングツアーにご参加頂き、そして体験談に投稿頂き、誠にありがとうございました。

ご参加されたのが1月と寒い日は水分調整が難しいですよね。

混載だと皆さんのペースを見ながら歩いて行きますが、今回はお客様お一人だったので、ガイドもお客様のペースに合わせたと思います。
トレッキングが終了後も宿はもちろん港・空港・温泉と無理のない範囲で送迎しております。

それではまたのご来島を心よりお待ちしております。

担当ガイド　浦西

屋久島道の駅観光
責任者：津曲

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Enjoying the relaxed world of Princess Mononoke.

Posted Date: 2020/04/02

しもぴー

I visited Shiratani Unsuikyo for the first time this time, and the moss was incredibly beautiful, covering everything in green and looking very picturesque! I wasn't very confident in my physical stamina, and I was a bit worried about whether I could make it to the mossy forest since I was tired from going to Jomon Sugi the day before. However, the guide spoke very slowly while we climbed, so it wasn't exhausting at all, and I was able to enjoy the scenery around me at a leisurely pace.

Next time… I visited Shiratani Unsuikyo for the first time this time, and the moss was incredibly beautiful, covering everything in green and looking very picturesque! I wasn't very confident in my physical stamina, and I was a bit worried about whether I could make it to the mossy forest since I was tired from going to Jomon Sugi the day before. However, the guide spoke very slowly while we climbed, so it wasn't exhausting at all, and I was able to enjoy the scenery around me at a leisurely pace.

Next time, I want to visit in the summer and enjoy the stunning view from Taiko Rock! 今回初めて白谷雲水峡に行かせて頂きましたが、
苔がすごくキレイに生えてて、一面緑でとても美しかったです！
私はあまり体力に自信がなく、前日に縄文杉まで行って疲れていたので、
苔むすの森まで行けるか少し不安でしたが、
ガイドの方がとてもゆっくりとお話ししながら登ってくださったので、まったくしんどくなく、また、ゆっくり周りの景色を見ながら登ることができました。

次回は夏に訪れて、太鼓岩からの絶景もたのしみたいと思います♪

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear Shimopi,

I apologize for the delayed response, but thank you very much for participating in our tour.

Shiratani Unsuikyo is a place where many customers are satisfied, with its clear streams and moss-covered forests from the entrance. However, I hope you will challenge yourself next time to visit Taiko Rock, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Yakushima's high mountains.

Thank you for your continued support.

Guide on the day: Shimozono

Yakushima Road Station Tourism
Manager: Tsugimuraしもぴー様
ご連絡遅くなりましたが、この度は弊社ツアーにご参加頂き、誠にありがとうございました。

白谷雲水峡は入口から清流と苔むす森が広がり、多くのお客様が満足する場所ですが、次回は屋久島の高い山々を一望出来る
太鼓岩に是非チャレンジして欲しいです。
今後とも宜しくお願いします。

当日ガイド：下園

屋久島道の駅観光
責任者：津曲

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It was a very enjoyable trekking experience!

Posted Date: 2019/08/23

Mii

The air was delicious, and it was a wonderfully healing trekking experience in nature! I received a lot of thoughtful care, and it was a fulfilling time! Thank you very much!空気が美味しくて自然に癒された最高に楽しいトレッキングになりました！
たくさんお気遣いいただき充実した時間でした！
ありがとうございました！

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Shiratani Unsuikyo First Trekking

Posted Date: 2019/07/18

あおいとり

I requested a guide for the Shiratani Unsuikyo. Two housewives in their 50s, who are classmates, participated, and I challenged myself with trekking for the first time. It was very helpful that we took breaks at good times while taking photos along the way. The descent was tough as my knees started to hurt, but it was worth it to reach the mossy forest! The guide's explanations were easy to understand, and they took really great photos with excellent techniques. Thank you very much!白谷雲水峡へガイドをお願いしました。50代主婦2人同級生で参加、私は初トレッキング挑戦、途中いいタイミングで写真撮影しながら休憩を取ってくださったのでとても助かりました。下りは膝が痛くなりたいへんでしたが苔むす森まで行った甲斐はありました！
ガイドさんの説明もわかりやすく写メの取り方がお上手で本当にいい写真を撮ってくださり良かったです。有難うございました！

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I want to meet the Kodama (tree spirit) of Yakushima!

Posted Date: 2019/07/04

まぁにゃん

Despite the heavy rain forecast due to the typhoon, I came to Yakushima to meet the kodama (tree spirits) of the Mononoke Forest. The moss, wet from the rain, sparkled beautifully and was truly wonderful! The guide brought a kodama doll, and it felt as if the real ones were there. I felt as if my heart was cleansed, and I left with a refreshed spirit. If you get the chance, I definitely recommend visiting!台風による大雨予報の中、もののけの森のこだま（木霊）に逢いたくて、屋久島にやって来ました。
雨に濡れた「苔」は、キラキラ輝いて、とても素敵でした❣️
ガイドさんがこだま（木霊）の人形を持って来てくれたのですが、本物がいるみたいでした
なんだか、心が洗われたように、スッキリした気持ちになりました。
是非、チャンスがあったら、訪れてみて欲しいですね。

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You should definitely try it; you won't regret it!

Posted Date: 2019/07/04

ブー子

My first visit to Yakushima was for trekking and diving. I heard that it was the setting for "Princess Mononoke," which is one of my favorite Studio Ghibli films, so I decided to go.

I chose the moss-covered forest half-day course. The staff at the accommodation mentioned that we would arrive quickly, but as a trekking beginner, I thought it might be better to save Jomon Sugi for another time.

On the day of the trek, I received a call from the person in charge. I was excited and nervous since it w… My first visit to Yakushima was for trekking and diving. I heard that it was the setting for "Princess Mononoke," which is one of my favorite Studio Ghibli films, so I decided to go.

I chose the moss-covered forest half-day course. The staff at the accommodation mentioned that we would arrive quickly, but as a trekking beginner, I thought it might be better to save Jomon Sugi for another time.

On the day of the trek, I received a call from the person in charge. I was excited and nervous since it was my first time, but the guide was wonderful. We talked about the course and shared casual conversations, creating a homely atmosphere, so I quickly felt comfortable. The guide was in his 70s, but he was a veteran who climbed swiftly! He provided detailed guidance, and I was glad I could keep up with him.

The reserved course was truly amazing, and I felt like I could climb it over and over again. There were huge cedar trees that rivaled Jomon Sugi, and the sound of the river was very soothing. The course was full of highlights until we reached the moss-covered forest, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you.

On the last day, I had a trekking reservation, and I wanted to make it to the ferry on time, so I asked to go to the souvenir center at a certain time. They kindly accommodated my request, which was a great help. Thank you. However, it might have been because I was the only one that day. 初めての屋久島で、目的はトレッキングとダイビングでした。
ジブリが大好きでもの○け姫でも舞台とされてるとのことで行ってみました。

コースは苔むす森、半日コース
宿のかた曰く直ぐについてしまいます、
なんて言われましたが、トレッキング初心者なので縄文杉はまたの機会でいいかもと思ってました。

当日前に担当の方より連絡があります。
初めてでワクワクドキドキ緊張してましたが、
ガイドの方が大変良くて、コースの話や世間話しをして頂きアットホームな雰囲気だったので直ぐに仲良くなりました。
高齢で70代過ぎの方でしたが、ベテラ… 初めての屋久島で、目的はトレッキングとダイビングでした。
ジブリが大好きでもの○け姫でも舞台とされてるとのことで行ってみました。

コースは苔むす森、半日コース
宿のかた曰く直ぐについてしまいます、
なんて言われましたが、トレッキング初心者なので縄文杉はまたの機会でいいかもと思ってました。

当日前に担当の方より連絡があります。
初めてでワクワクドキドキ緊張してましたが、
ガイドの方が大変良くて、コースの話や世間話しをして頂きアットホームな雰囲気だったので直ぐに仲良くなりました。
高齢で70代過ぎの方でしたが、ベテランの方でサクサク登られます！w
さらに細かなガイドをして頂けます。
ガイドさんになんとか付いて行けて良かった…

予約のコースは本当に最高で何度でも登りたいって思えます。縄文杉に負けないくらい大きな杉があり、川のせせらぎが心地良かったです。
苔むす森に辿りつくまで見所満載のコースで満喫出来ました！！
ありがとうございます。

最終日にトレッキングを予約していたので、フェリー時間に間に合うように何時にはお土産センターへ行きたいなどとワガママを聞いて頂き、大変助かりました。ありがとうございます。
ただ、その日は私だけだったからかも知れません。

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