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Private Tour: Shiratani Unsuikyo (Taikoiwa) Trekking Tour

4.60· 139 reviews

Highlights

Choose from two start times: 5:00 AM (great for departure day ferries) or a relaxed 8:00 AM
Suitable for families—children aged 6 and up can join

What to expect

Certified by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, this Shiratani Unsuikyo tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who supports your trek while sharing insights about Yakushima’s nature. Enjoy stunning views from Taikoiwa on clear days.

What's included

Pick-up and drop-off / Trekking Guide Fee

Packages (2)

Standard PlanDailyfrom USD 60.30

Private Charter Plan (July–November)Dailyfrom USD 422.07

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.
Tsuji Pass
After passing through the forest, you’ll reach a clearing with wooden benches—a short break before the final ascent.
Taikoiwa Rock
The last and steepest climb. This advanced section rewards you with panoramic views of Yakushima, bathed in sunlight filtering through the trees. After enjoying the view, descend back to Tsuji Pass.
Tsuji Pass → Shiratani Trailhead
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
A packed meal is required:
・5:00 AM start: Bring a breakfast bento
・9:00 AM start: Bring a lunch bento
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:197119)

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

4.60

139 reviews

5107

421

Guest photos 165

The best view!

Posted Date: 2026/04/29

みう

I usually don't exercise and I dislike mountain climbing, but after being moved by Shiratani Unsuikyo last year, I decided to challenge myself and try to reach Taiko Rock. As I had researched beforehand, the climb from the moss-covered forest to Taiko Rock was really tough. I think I would have given up if it weren't for the guide. When I finally mustered my last bit of strength and reached the summit, I was truly moved by the view in front of me and felt that it was worth climbing!普段の生活で運動をしないし、山登りも嫌いな自分ですが、去年白谷雲水峡に感動し、次は太鼓岩まで行ってみたいと思い挑戦しました。
事前に色々と調べたとおり、苔むすの森からの太鼓岩、本当にきつかったです。
ガイドさんいなかったら諦めていたと思う。
最後の力を振り絞って頂上へ着いた時、目の前の景色に本当に感動して登って良かったと心から思いました！

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Blissful experience

Posted Date: 2026/04/18

わたなべ

I had a fantastic time on the Taiko Rock course for five hours with our guide, Mr. Kimura. It flew by as he taught us various things along the way. The pacing, photo spots, and tips on how to take pictures, along with knowledge about Yakushima, were all things we wouldn't have learned if we had climbed on our own. We experienced everything from subtropical to northeastern climates, and even moments of sunshine turning into fog. The river water was delicious, making the Yakushima hike absolutely … I had a fantastic time on the Taiko Rock course for five hours with our guide, Mr. Kimura. It flew by as he taught us various things along the way. The pacing, photo spots, and tips on how to take pictures, along with knowledge about Yakushima, were all things we wouldn't have learned if we had climbed on our own. We experienced everything from subtropical to northeastern climates, and even moments of sunshine turning into fog. The river water was delicious, making the Yakushima hike absolutely amazing. I felt like a child again, enjoying every moment, and I want to return to Yakushima next time to experience Yakusugi Land and marine sports! I would be thrilled to meet the same guide again then. 木全さんと言うガイドさんについて頂き、色々教えて貰いながらの太鼓岩コース5時間はあっという間で、本当に楽しかったです。
ペース配分、写真スポットや撮り方、屋久島の知識、自分達だけで登っていたら知り得ない事ばかりでした。
亜熱帯から東北地方の気候まで、晴れから霧がかかった瞬間も体験でき、川の水も美味しく屋久島登山は最高でした。
童心に返って楽しむ事ができたので、次回ヤクスギランドやマリンスポーツを体験しに屋久島に行きたいと思います！その時、また同じガイドさんに巡り会えたら嬉しいです。

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Exactly the White Valley.

Posted Date: 2026/04/11

てんさん

It was a tour to Taiko Rock, but due to the weather, the participants' physical condition, and scheduling, we walked to the Mossy Forest instead. We were given enough time to explore the surroundings, and I was able to enjoy it thoroughly.

Along the way, the guide shared various stories about the island's weather, tourist spots, Yakusugi (ancient cedar trees), and safe walking methods. I felt it was a good decision to join the tour instead of climbing on my own.太鼓岩までのツアーでしたが、天候や参加者の体力やスケジュールの判断で、苔むす森まで歩きました。周辺を散策する時間を取っていただき、充分に楽しむことができました。
道中はガイドさんが、島の天候や観光スポット．屋久杉について．安全な歩き方など、様々な話をしてくれました。個人で登らずにツアーに参加して良かったと思いました。

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It was rainy.

Posted Date: 2025/03/16

HIRO

I chose to depart at 5:00 due to my schedule. It was still dark and raining, but since there were few people, I was able to walk at my own pace. Before we set off, the guide explained that considering the rain, we might only be able to go partway, and there was a possibility we might not be able to cross the second stream, but we wouldn't know until we tried. I was really happy with the guide's kind and thorough explanations, encouraging us to enjoy the experience. In the end, we had to give up … I chose to depart at 5:00 due to my schedule. It was still dark and raining, but since there were few people, I was able to walk at my own pace. Before we set off, the guide explained that considering the rain, we might only be able to go partway, and there was a possibility we might not be able to cross the second stream, but we wouldn't know until we tried. I was really happy with the guide's kind and thorough explanations, encouraging us to enjoy the experience. In the end, we had to give up on crossing the second stream as it was already swollen and dangerous.

I couldn't help but think that if we had made it to Taiko Rock as planned, or at least to the mossy forest, or if it hadn't been raining, it would have been nice. However, I was satisfied with the beauty of the moss that we could see in the rain, the fear of the water, and the guide's explanations. I think it was physically demanding, but if I have the chance to go again, I would like to request the same tour with the same guide. 日程の都合で5:00出発を選びました、あいにくの雨の中まだ暗い時間の出発でしたが人も少ないためマイペースで歩けました。
出発前には雨の状況を考え途中までしか行けないかも知れないと説明があり、もしかしたらふたつ目の沢も渡れないかも知れないが行ってみないとわからないとの事でした。それでも楽しんで欲しいと言うガイドさんの親切丁寧な説明がいっぱいあり嬉しかったです。結果的にはふたつ目の沢はすでに増水していて危険との事で断念しました。
予定通り太鼓岩まで行けていたら、せめて苔むすの森まで行けていたら、雨が降ってな… 日程の都合で5:00出発を選びました、あいにくの雨の中まだ暗い時間の出発でしたが人も少ないためマイペースで歩けました。
出発前には雨の状況を考え途中までしか行けないかも知れないと説明があり、もしかしたらふたつ目の沢も渡れないかも知れないが行ってみないとわからないとの事でした。それでも楽しんで欲しいと言うガイドさんの親切丁寧な説明がいっぱいあり嬉しかったです。結果的にはふたつ目の沢はすでに増水していて危険との事で断念しました。
予定通り太鼓岩まで行けていたら、せめて苔むすの森まで行けていたら、雨が降ってなかったら、と思う気持ちは残りましたが雨の中だから見れた苔の美しさ、水の怖さ、ガイドさんの説明、すべてで満足出来ました。
体力的に厳しいと思いますがまた行く機会があれば同じツアーで同じガイドさんにお願いしたいと思います。

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It's a bit tough due to the typhoon damage.

Posted Date: 2024/10/13

HOPEさん

Due to the impact of the large typhoon at the end of August, which caused significant damage to Yayoi Cedar and closed the usual routes, we had to take a detour to reach the Kusukawa Trail. However, thanks to the rain that fell in the morning, we were able to see the fresh, dew-laden forest, making it a memorable tour. Since there was a forecast for rain and thunder, we followed the guide's suggestion to change our course and turn back in the mossy forest instead of going all the way to Taiko Ro… Due to the impact of the large typhoon at the end of August, which caused significant damage to Yayoi Cedar and closed the usual routes, we had to take a detour to reach the Kusukawa Trail. However, thanks to the rain that fell in the morning, we were able to see the fresh, dew-laden forest, making it a memorable tour. Since there was a forecast for rain and thunder, we followed the guide's suggestion to change our course and turn back in the mossy forest instead of going all the way to Taiko Rock. This allowed us more time for photography and enjoying the scenery, and it started to rain on our way back, so I think it turned out well in the end. I was very satisfied with the trekking experience. The guide provided detailed explanations and shared personal stories, making the walk enjoyable. Thank you very much. 弥生杉に大きな被害をもたらした8月末の大型台風の影響で通常のルートが閉鎖され、迂回路を通って楠川歩道に抜けるちょっとハードな行程となりましたが、朝降っていた雨のお陰で水滴を含んだみずみずしい森の様子が見られ、思い出深いツアーとなりました。雨、雷の予報が出ていたため、ガイドさんの提案を受け、太鼓岩までは行かずに苔むす森で引き返すコースに変更しましたが、その分写真撮影や景色を鑑賞する時間の余裕ができ、また帰りには雨も降りだしたので結果としてよかったのではないかと思います。自分としては大満足のトレッキ… 弥生杉に大きな被害をもたらした8月末の大型台風の影響で通常のルートが閉鎖され、迂回路を通って楠川歩道に抜けるちょっとハードな行程となりましたが、朝降っていた雨のお陰で水滴を含んだみずみずしい森の様子が見られ、思い出深いツアーとなりました。雨、雷の予報が出ていたため、ガイドさんの提案を受け、太鼓岩までは行かずに苔むす森で引き返すコースに変更しましたが、その分写真撮影や景色を鑑賞する時間の余裕ができ、また帰りには雨も降りだしたので結果としてよかったのではないかと思います。自分としては大満足のトレッキングとなりました。ガイドさんの詳しい説明や経験談も伺えて楽しく歩き通すことができました。ありがとうございました。

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The best view!

Posted Date: 2024/10/12

きまちゃん’S

The beautiful mossy forest and the breathtaking view from Taiko Rock were amazing! It wasn't as tough as Jomon Sugi, but it wasn't lacking either. The guide's pace was just right, and their interesting explanations made it enjoyable. I also appreciated the miso soup that was provided along the way. Due to the impact of Typhoon No. 10, we had to take a detour for part of the route. I pray for a swift recovery. Thank you for the wonderful experience!苔の美しい森と、大パノラマの太鼓岩からの絶景が最高でした！
縄文杉ほどキツくはなく、かといって物足りないということもありませんでした。ガイドさんのペースも程よく面白く解説してくれたのも楽しかったです。
途中、味噌汁の差し入れも有難かったです。
台風10号の影響で一部、迂回路の行程となりました。一日も早い復旧をお祈りいたします。
最高の体験をありがとうございました！

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Shiratani Unsuikyo Trekking Tour

Posted Date: 2024/05/24

ひろえ

Trekking in the rain was challenging, but thanks to the rain, we were able to see beautiful scenery. It was a lot of fun trekking while receiving tips on how to walk from the guide and listening to various stories.雨天でのトレッキングとなり、大変でしたが、
雨のお陰で、綺麗な風景が見れました。
ガイドさんに、歩き方のコツを教えていただいたり、色々な話を聞きながらのトレッキングはとても楽しかったです。

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I'm glad I went.

Posted Date: 2024/05/11

なー

The view from Taiko Rock was amazing. It was very enjoyable to walk slowly while talking about animals and plants. I was worried about being able to walk since I went to Jomon Sugi the day before, but I was able to walk comfortably.太鼓岩からの景色は最高でした。動物や植物の話をしながらゆっくり歩けてとても楽しかったです。前日縄文杉までいったので歩けるか不安でしたが、気持ちよく歩くことができました。

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The view is amazing and truly moving.

Posted Date: 2024/05/01

MKママ

It had been raining since midnight, and the guide explained that if the river was too high and we couldn't cross the stream, the tour might be canceled. So we decided to head to the site and started our journey. In the end, while the water level was a bit high, we were able to cross the stream, and gradually the weather improved. We made it to Taiko Rock, where we were able to see an incredibly beautiful view.

I was truly moved.

However, the sole of the rental shoes came off partway through, and… It had been raining since midnight, and the guide explained that if the river was too high and we couldn't cross the stream, the tour might be canceled. So we decided to head to the site and started our journey. In the end, while the water level was a bit high, we were able to cross the stream, and gradually the weather improved. We made it to Taiko Rock, where we were able to see an incredibly beautiful view.

I was truly moved.

However, the sole of the rental shoes came off partway through, and while the guide provided a temporary fix, it was difficult to put pressure on my feet.

I was able to complete the tour thanks to our guide, Mr. Uranishi. I also want to thank the other participants in the tour. Thank you very much. 夜中から雨が降っていて、ガイドさんから川の水が多く、沢が渡らなかったら中止するかも、と説明され、とりあえず現地まで行ってみましょうとスタートしました。結局ちょっと増水はしてましたが、沢は渡れて、だんだん天気も回復し、太鼓岩まで行け、とてつもなく素晴らしい景色が見れました。
本当に感動です。
ただ、レンタルしたシューズの底が途中で取れてしまい、ガイドさんが応急処置してはくれましたが、足に力がうまく入らず大変でした。
ツアーを最後までやり切れたのはガイドの浦西さんのお陰です。あと、一緒に参加したツアーの方… 夜中から雨が降っていて、ガイドさんから川の水が多く、沢が渡らなかったら中止するかも、と説明され、とりあえず現地まで行ってみましょうとスタートしました。結局ちょっと増水はしてましたが、沢は渡れて、だんだん天気も回復し、太鼓岩まで行け、とてつもなく素晴らしい景色が見れました。
本当に感動です。
ただ、レンタルしたシューズの底が途中で取れてしまい、ガイドさんが応急処置してはくれましたが、足に力がうまく入らず大変でした。
ツアーを最後までやり切れたのはガイドの浦西さんのお陰です。あと、一緒に参加したツアーの方にも感謝です。ありがとうございました。

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Taiko Rock Trekking Tour

Posted Date: 2024/03/14

たいすけ

The day before, I had gone trekking to Jomon Sugi and was worried about my stamina, but while chatting with the guide, I quickly arrived at the destination. Since the guide is from Yakushima, it was really enjoyable to hear stories about Yakushima.

After the tour, I went to lunch at a recommended restaurant with the other participants and the guide. There, I was able to try the famous "kubore saba" (saba fish).前日に縄文杉までトレッキングをしていて体力的に不安でしたが、ガイドさんと喋っていたらあっという間に目的地についていました。屋久島出身のガイドさんなので屋久島についてのお話が聞けてとても楽しかったです。
また、ツアー後に参加者さん、ガイドさんとオススメのお店に昼食に行きました。そこで、首折れサバも食べることができました。

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Reply from yakushimanowa

Dear Taisuke,

Thank you for participating in the trekking tour and for sharing your experience. I am glad to see your enjoyable feedback, as my guiding motto is to ensure safety, security, and fun. It was great that we could all enjoy local food for lunch together.

Please come back to visit us in a different season.

Sincerely,
Guide Tsugimuraたいすけ様

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ありがとうございました。
私のガイドモットーは安全・安心・楽しくにしてるので楽しいという体験談を見て嬉しく思います。
昼食も皆で地元の物を食べれて良かったですよね。

また違う季節に遊びに来て下さいね。

担当ガイド　津曲

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