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Yakushima Shiratani Unsuikyo Trekking Tour to Taikoiwa

4.70· 43 reviews

Highlights

Hike through Shiratani Unsuikyo’s lush mossy forest to the scenic Taikoiwa Rock
Admire panoramic island views from the top of Taikoiwa Rock in Yakushima
Rent trekking gear for a hassle-free hiking experience in Yakushima
Enjoy a guided tour with insights into Yakushima’s unique ecosystem
Pre-order a lunch bento to enjoy during the forest trekking break

What to expect

A mystical forest that gently embraces you with the kindness of nature and life.
Take each step with care and feel the flow of eternal time.

＜Available with the Full Gear Set Plan＞
■ Two-piece Raincoat
An essential item for Yakushima, where sudden rain is common. Also serves as cold-weather protection.
■ Trekking Backpack
A rain cover is reassuring for wet conditions. It may also be placed on the ground.
■ Trekking Shoes (Hiking Boots)
Protect your ankles and feet on uneven, rocky steps. Also allows you to walk through puddles without getting soaked.

What's included

Varies by package — see each package below.

Packages (2)

Shoes, raincoat, and backpack included Full Gear PlanDailyfrom USD 94.99

Standard PlanDailyfrom USD 74.09

Schedule

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Pickup at Each Accommodation
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Please have breakfast before the tour.
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Arrive at Shiratani Unsuikyo Entrance
After using the restroom and warming up, it's time to begin the hike.
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Ikoi-no-Oiwa → Hiryuu Otoshi Falls
Walk across a massive granite slab toward Hiryuu Otoshi Falls. The pure white cascade embodies the powerful life force of nature.
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Satsuki Suspension Bridge
Cross the suspension bridge and venture into the deep green forest. Below flows the clear Shiratani River, winding through a gorge shaped over countless years and cooled by a refreshing breeze.
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Kuguri Sugi (Pass-Through Cedar Tree)
Powerful roots rise from the ground to form an arch-shaped cedar you can walk through. The roots once grew over a fallen tree, which later decayed and disappeared, leaving this unique shape. It’s a popular photo spot!
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Shiratani Mountain Hut
This mountain hut also serves as an emergency shelter for overnight stays. Take a break and refresh yourself with spring water nearby. You might even spot a Yakushima deer or other forest creatures peeking out.
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Nanahon Sugi (Seven-Trunk Cedar)
Look up, and you'll understand how it got its name. Seven strong branches grow from a single cedar trunk, reaching skyward as gentle sunlight filters through the leaves, warmly embracing all who pass beneath.
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Mononoke Forest (Moss-Covered Forest)
The tour's highlight is the lush Mossy Forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo. This mystical, moisture-rich woodland evokes scenes from the film Princess Mononoke. Surrounded by water and greenery, experience a moment of quiet as you melt into the serene embrace of the forest.
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Tsujitoge Pass
Enjoy a quiet lunch in the peaceful forest. Close your eyes and listen closely—you may hear the gentle flow of the stream, the calls of birds, and the subtle sounds of the forest around you.
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Taikoiwa Rock
Climb past the peaceful forest and reach Taikoiwa Rock 10 minutes from Tsujitoge. A stunning panoramic view of Yakushima’s vast forest awaits, sweeping away your fatigue
13:30
Begin Descent
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Arrive at Shiratani Unsuikyo Entrance
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Drop-off at Each Accommodation

Location and Directions

Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge
Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4200, Japan

Restrictions

Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Please inform us at the time of booking if you have a disability or any medical condition that requires attention. Depending on the guide's judgment, participation may be declined on the day of the tour.
A separate ¥500 Shiratani Unsuikyo conservation fee is required.
If less than 2 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
No refunds will be issued if the tour is canceled after departure due to weather or other reasons.
Participants must be between 10 and 70 years old.
This activity is offered in Japanese only. Thank you for your understanding that English support cannot be provided.

What to bring

Long pants required (jeans not recommended as they get heavy and dry slowly).
Track pants or athletic wear are recommended.
Long-sleeved top
Warm clothing is also necessary during winter.
Lunch
Optional bento available for an additional ¥650.
Emergency snack
Water bottle or plastic bottle
Flashlight or headlamp
Towel or similar item
Light hiking shoes or athletic shoes ^[A]
Rain gear (separate jacket and pants) ^[A]

Other requirements

You will receive a phone call three days before the tour to confirm your gear, and again the day before to finalize the meeting location and departure time.
Guests who book a plan with rental items included are requested to visit the tour operator’s office located in front of Yakushima Airport to pick up the rental items between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM on the day before the tour. ^[B]

Additional notes

Each guide will lead up to 8 participants. This is a shared tour with other guests.
Restrooms are only available at the Shiratani Unsuikyo entrance and Shiratani Hut. Please use only biodegradable tissues or toilet paper when using the facilities.
The tour may be canceled due to weather conditions or road construction.
Please return the rental items to the tour operator’s office located in front of Yakushima Airport by the day after your tour. ^[B]

^[A] Applies to: Standard Plan

^[B] Applies to: Shoes, raincoat, and backpack included Full Gear Plan

Operated by

Yakushima Tour Operations (Code:196526)

Cancellation policy

8-11 business days before (by 6:00 PM local time): 20%
2-8 business days before (by 6:00 PM local time): 30%
1-2 business days before (by 6:00 PM local time): 40%
0-1 business day before (by 6:00 PM local time): 50%
Within 1 hours of start (local time): 100%

Reviews

4.70

43 reviews

535

Guest photos 44

The best experience!

Posted Date: 2026/07/19

マツ

The course to Taiko Rock.
The temperature and humidity were high, so I started with some anxiety.
However, thanks to the guide's explanations at key points and the slow pace with breaks, I was able to enjoy the best views.
I was so satisfied that I wondered if there could be another tour as fulfilling as this one.
I also had a great time walking with the others who joined, and even though I participated alone, it was enjoyable.太鼓岩までのコース。
気温も湿度も高く、不安からのスタートでしたが。
ガイドさんの要所要所の説明と、ゆっくりペース休憩入れながらでしたので、最高の景色を見る事ができました。
こんなに満足するツアーが他にあるのかと思うぐらい大満喫でした。
一緒になった方とも、楽しく歩く事ができて、1人参加でしたか楽しかったです。

Machine translated from Japanese

A forest full of vitality!

Posted Date: 2026/07/08

みみ

The entire island is a power spot (≧∇≦)

The guide explained why Yakushima is special, and I was able to fully understand that this island is indeed a unique and mystical place!

Once I grasped that, I felt an incredible life force in each tree of the forest, making me realize that my worries are insignificant!

The guide was attentive to everyone’s condition and walked at a comfortable pace, which was very helpful.

To truly understand this island, this forest, and this mystery, I highly recommend doin… The entire island is a power spot (≧∇≦)

The guide explained why Yakushima is special, and I was able to fully understand that this island is indeed a unique and mystical place!

Once I grasped that, I felt an incredible life force in each tree of the forest, making me realize that my worries are insignificant!

The guide was attentive to everyone’s condition and walked at a comfortable pace, which was very helpful.

To truly understand this island, this forest, and this mystery, I highly recommend doing the mountain climbing with this guide. The experience is completely different!

The guide was very knowledgeable and a reliable presence! Plus, they were kind and it was a lot of fun to talk with them! Although I was traveling alone, I was able to enjoy climbing the mountain with all the participants. Thank you for the wonderful memories! 島全体がパワースポット（≧∇≦）

屋久島がなぜ特別なのか、ガイドさんがしっかり説明してくれて、この島が、特別な神秘の島なんだということがきちんと理解できました！

それが理解できると、この森の木々ひとつひとつに物凄い生命力を感じて、
自分の悩みなんぞちっぽけだぜ！と思わせてくれました。

ガイドさんはみんなの様子を見ながら、無理のないスピードで歩いてくれて助かりました。

この島を、この森を、この神秘を理解するにはまずはこのガイドさんつきの山登りをすることをオススメします。感動が全然違います！

ガイドさんもガイド意… 島全体がパワースポット（≧∇≦）

屋久島がなぜ特別なのか、ガイドさんがしっかり説明してくれて、この島が、特別な神秘の島なんだということがきちんと理解できました！

それが理解できると、この森の木々ひとつひとつに物凄い生命力を感じて、
自分の悩みなんぞちっぽけだぜ！と思わせてくれました。

ガイドさんはみんなの様子を見ながら、無理のないスピードで歩いてくれて助かりました。

この島を、この森を、この神秘を理解するにはまずはこのガイドさんつきの山登りをすることをオススメします。感動が全然違います！

ガイドさんもガイド意識のすごく高い人で頼れる存在でした！
しかも親切で、話していてとても楽しかったです！
ひとり旅でしたが、参加者みんなと楽しく山登りできました。
素敵な思い出をありがとうございます！

Machine translated from Japanese

Taiko Rock offers a stunning view.

Posted Date: 2026/05/18

Saki

The moss-covered forest is certainly wonderful, but it was great to overlook the Yakushima mountains from Taiko Rock. The day before, I went to Jomon Sugi, but this hike wasn't too strenuous, and since the pace was slow, I had plenty of time to listen to the guide's stories, take breaks, and take photos.苔むす森も十分素晴らしいのですが、太鼓岩から屋久島の山林を見渡せたのがよかったです。前日に縄文杉に行きましたが、こちらは歩行もそれほど辛くなく、ペースもゆっくりなのでガイドさんのお話を聞いたり、ゆっくり休憩したり、写真を撮る時間もたくさんあったりでよかったです。

Machine translated from Japanese

The best day.

Posted Date: 2026/05/09

みちみ

The forecast predicted clear skies in the morning. While walking, I started to sweat, and when I took a break, the weather felt refreshing. It felt like water was overflowing from everywhere, nourishing the earth. I saw the stumps of cedar trees cut down by humans, and it was a powerful reminder of nature's ability to regenerate. The view from Taiko Rock was breathtaking. I truly felt the life of Yakushima. Since it was during Golden Week, there were quite a few people, but I was glad I made the… The forecast predicted clear skies in the morning. While walking, I started to sweat, and when I took a break, the weather felt refreshing. It felt like water was overflowing from everywhere, nourishing the earth. I saw the stumps of cedar trees cut down by humans, and it was a powerful reminder of nature's ability to regenerate. The view from Taiko Rock was breathtaking. I truly felt the life of Yakushima. Since it was during Golden Week, there were quite a few people, but I was glad I made the trip. 午前中は晴れ予報。歩いていると汗ばみ、休憩するとひんやりする天気でした。至るところから水が溢れ、大地を潤している、そんな感覚でした。人間が切り落とした杉の切り株、そこから再生しようとする自然の力、太鼓岩からの景色も圧巻。屋久島の命を感じました。ゴールデンウィーク中だったので人は多めでしたが足を運んで良かったと思いました。

Machine translated from Japanese

This is a highly satisfying tour.

Posted Date: 2026/05/02

やっほー

The weather was favorable, there weren't too many people, and I was healed by the great nature of Yakushima. The explanations of the highlights, pacing, and photo opportunities were all excellent. The guide's attention to detail was truly wonderful. I would definitely like to request this again if the opportunity arises!天候に恵まれ、さほど人も多くなく、屋久島の大自然に癒されました。
見所の説明、ペース配分、写真撮影等々
とにかくガイドさんの心配りが素晴らしかったです。
また機会があれば是非お願いしたいです！

Machine translated from Japanese

The tour guide was amazing!

Posted Date: 2026/04/01

ノグ

The scenery was of course amazing, but the tour guide was the best. They had a wealth of topics to discuss and shared them in such an interesting way that I forgot my fatigue and was able to enjoy the trekking.絶景はもちろん最高でしたが、ツアーガイドさんが最高でした。
話題豊富でしかも面白く話してくれて、疲れを忘れてトレッキングできました。

Machine translated from Japanese

If you come to Moss, you have to come this far!

Posted Date: 2025/11/30

うーしん

I couldn't help but bark when the guide said, "Don't look until I say it's okay!"

At this super panorama, I stood still for a moment, forgetting my fear of heights.

Once you reach this moss-covered area, it would be such a waste not to come this far! 👍ガイドさんに「いいって言うまで見ないで！」に従い、思わず吠えました❗️

このスーパーパノラマ、高所恐怖症を忘れて暫し立ち尽くしていました。

苔むすまで来たら、ココまで来ないとあまりにももったいない👍

Machine translated from Japanese

The view from Taiko Rock is a must-see.

Posted Date: 2025/08/27

りんご

The trekking to Jomon Sugi and the round trip around Yakushima by rental car were both great experiences, but the view from Taiko Rock is something you can only see by going there, so I highly recommend it. I was really looking forward to the moss in Shiratani Unsuikyo, and last year I was moved by my visit to Oirase Gorge, but Shiratani Unsuikyo had impressive large rocks and trees.

The weather was nice, and it seemed that the summit of Mount Miyanoura was hidden by clouds, so I think the view … The trekking to Jomon Sugi and the round trip around Yakushima by rental car were both great experiences, but the view from Taiko Rock is something you can only see by going there, so I highly recommend it. I was really looking forward to the moss in Shiratani Unsuikyo, and last year I was moved by my visit to Oirase Gorge, but Shiratani Unsuikyo had impressive large rocks and trees.

The weather was nice, and it seemed that the summit of Mount Miyanoura was hidden by clouds, so I think the view from Taiko Rock was better that day. The final climb was a bit tough on my sore muscles after two days of hiking, but it’s worth pushing yourself a little to go. The bleached Jomon Sugi, the mountains around the river, the lush greenery, and the flowing clouds were all breathtaking. It felt a bit dangerous as if I might fall, but I thought it would be amazing if I could safely take a nap there. 縄文杉トレッキングも、レンタカーで屋久島一周もしましたが、太鼓岩からの景色はそこに行かないと見られないので、おすすめです。白谷雲水峡のこけもとても楽しみにしていて、昨年は奥入瀬渓谷へ行って感動したのですが、白谷雲水峡は岩も木も大きく迫力がありました。
天気もよく、宮之浦岳頂上は雲に隠れていたようなので、この日は太鼓岩からの景色の方が視界良好で良かったと思います。最後の登りが二日続けての登山で筋肉痛の足にはちょっときつかったですが、多少の無理をしてでも行く価値があります。白化した縄文杉、川の周りの山… 縄文杉トレッキングも、レンタカーで屋久島一周もしましたが、太鼓岩からの景色はそこに行かないと見られないので、おすすめです。白谷雲水峡のこけもとても楽しみにしていて、昨年は奥入瀬渓谷へ行って感動したのですが、白谷雲水峡は岩も木も大きく迫力がありました。
天気もよく、宮之浦岳頂上は雲に隠れていたようなので、この日は太鼓岩からの景色の方が視界良好で良かったと思います。最後の登りが二日続けての登山で筋肉痛の足にはちょっときつかったですが、多少の無理をしてでも行く価値があります。白化した縄文杉、川の周りの山々、青々とした緑、流れていく雲。落ちそうで危ないですが、安全に昼寝できたなら最高だろうなと思いました。

Machine translated from Japanese

I wanted to see the moss forest.

Posted Date: 2025/06/03

カメ三郎

I wanted to see the moss forest that is said to have inspired Princess Mononoke with my own eyes, so I joined this tour. It was a round trip of six hours. The day I participated was the last day of Golden Week, and surprisingly, I was the only participant! I got to have the guide all to myself. Thanks to that, I was able to hear a lot of stories, and it was very educational. Unfortunately, the summit was completely white, and I couldn't see anything, but on the way down, the thick fog created a … I wanted to see the moss forest that is said to have inspired Princess Mononoke with my own eyes, so I joined this tour. It was a round trip of six hours. The day I participated was the last day of Golden Week, and surprisingly, I was the only participant! I got to have the guide all to myself. Thanks to that, I was able to hear a lot of stories, and it was very educational. Unfortunately, the summit was completely white, and I couldn't see anything, but on the way down, the thick fog created a very mystical and mysterious world that I felt I had entered. Next time I climb, I hope to enjoy the view from the top as well. もののけ姫のモデルになったと言われる苔の森が自分の目で見たくなり、このツアーに参加しました。往復6時間のコースです。
参加した日はGWの最終日で、なんと参加者は私1人！
ガイドさんを独り占めできました(^^)
お陰でたくさんの話しが聞けて、とても勉強になりました。
残念なことに頂上は真っ白で何も見えなかったけど、下山中は濃霧のお陰でとても神秘的で不思議な世界に入り込んだ感覚になりました。
今度登る時は頂上の景色も楽しみたいと思います。

Machine translated from Japanese

It was unfortunate due to the heavy rain, but

Posted Date: 2025/05/22

さくら

I couldn't go to the moss-covered area due to the heavy rain, but I enjoyed the guide's extensive knowledge. I felt relaxed surrounded by the moss and trees. I realized that nature is always accompanied by danger. Thank you very much!!大雨で苔むすまでは行けませんでしたが、ガイドさんの豊富な知識で楽しませていただきました。ゆったりと苔や木々に癒されました。自然は危険と隣り合わせだと実感しました。
本当にありがとうございました！！

Machine translated from Japanese