Shiratani Unsuikyo is a beautiful area where you can fully experience the great nature of Yakushima, and its mysterious atmosphere attracts many climbers and tourists. This is a trekking area with particularly beautiful moss in Yakushima, with a fantastic view of the moss-covered forest, also known as ``Princess Mononoke's Forest,'' and a highly transparent mountain stream, making you feel as if you have stepped into another world. You can.
The Shiratani Unsuikyo trekking course is suitable for beginners to intermediates, and is relatively short compared to the Jomonsugi Climb, and can be enjoyed in about 2 to 3 hours one way. There are three types of routes that allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of nature, and each has its own unique charm. Another major attraction of this course is that it is close to Miyanoura Port and has convenient access from the area where the hotel is located.
Currently, due to the effects of the typhoon that occurred in 2024, two routes, the Yayoisugi Course and the Bugyosugi Course, are closed to traffic. Therefore, this time we will introduce the representative Taikoiwa course.
The Taiko-iwa course is a round trip hike of approximately 4-5 hours, covering a total distance of about 5.6 km, allowing you to fully enjoy the rich natural beauty of Yakushima. Its
moderate difficulty level makes it enjoyable for beginners to intermediate hikers, and it's very popular with those new to mountaineering. From Taiko-iwa, located at the end of this course, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains in central Yakushima, including Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu.
Along the way, you will pass various famous spots as you walk along the Taikoiwa Course.
On the way to the moss-covered forest, there is a point where you cross a stream. Be especially careful during rainy days, as rising water may make it impossible to cross. Even if you can cross on the way out, the water level in the stream may rise on the way back and make it impossible to cross. Overconfidence is extremely dangerous, as water accidents have occurred in the past. When the water rises, it is not only impossible to cross the stream, but it can also be life-threatening. Therefore, please climb at a comfortable pace and prioritize safety according to the situation.
Yakushima is a rainy region, so layered clothing is recommended for hiking, as it allows you to adjust your attire according to the temperature and your activity level.The Yakushima Tourism Association's official website provides detailed information on recommended clothing and items to bring. Please check it in advance.
THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMArents mountaineering equipment. Even if you come to the island empty-handed, we will show you the best clothing for mountain climbing, so please feel free to come. When it rains, the roads become muddy and slippery in many places. Therefore, it is better to have waterproof trekking shoes.THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMAalso has rental shoes available, so please feel free to use them if you need them.
Since it will be a long trek, you will need to have lunch while climbing. Lunch boxes can be arranged at the hotel. Please let us know the number of items you need at check-in. The lunch fee will be settled at the time of check-out. There is also a supermarket near the hotel, so there is no problem if you arrange your own packed lunch.
Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge can be accessed by rental car or bus.
You can catch a Yakushima Kotsu bus from the Miyanoura Port bus stop (the first stop) near the hotel.There are four buses a day, but if you're heading to the Taiko-iwa course, we recommend taking the 8:10 AM bus there and the 4:10 PM bus back. The bus stop is about a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
[To]
【return】
If you head to Shiratani Unsuikyo in a rental car from your hotel, you can enjoy climbing freely without having to worry about bus schedules. It takes about 30 minutes by car from the hotel to Shiratani Unsuikyo. The parking lot is free and can accommodate up to 50 cars, but it is often full during peak seasons, so we recommend leaving early.
The following fares are required for the bus to Shiratani Unsuikyo. Buses in Yakushima only accept cash and IC cards cannot be used, so please be sure to have 1000 yen bills (old bills only) ready. In addition, a mountain entry fee is required for climbing the mountain, and this fee must be paid at the entrance to Shiratani Unsuikyo.
THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMAoffers guided tours led by Yakushima-certified veteran guides. The guide will guide you along the way and explain the highlights in detail, so you can enjoy the mountain with peace of mind. Transportation from the hotel is also included, making it convenient to access.
Particularly in Shiratani Unsuikyo, there are multiple streams to cross, and in rough weather it can be difficult for beginners to make decisions. For a safe and enjoyable experience, we recommend using a guided tour.
In addition, there are two ``Mountain God Days'' every year, once on the New Year's Day according to the lunar calendar. On this day, people who work in the mountains do not climb the mountains, but instead pray for safety and give thanks to the mountains in their villages. Therefore, guided tours will be suspended.
"Yakushima Official Guide" is a guide recognized by Yakushima Town who has passed a special examination. Yakushima's weather is very changeable and it has a rich natural environment, so some places are dangerous to enter. That's why Yakushima's certified guides are insured in case of an accident or injury, and have first aid skills. Furthermore, since he actually lives in Yakushima Town, he is able to guide you not only to famous places such as Jomon Cedar and Shiratani Unsuikyo, but also to unknown and attractive places.
Tour information is posted on the activities page.
Please check the tour booking page for details.
| Implementation period | Runs all year round |
| Application deadline | Until the day before your stay |
| Time required | 8:00-15:30 (Currently departing around 7:00 due to detour course) |
| itinerary | 08:00 Departure from hotel |
| Capacity | From 1 person (this will be a shared tour with other customers) |
| Fee | From 9,000 yen |
| What's included in the price | Insurance, transportation expenses |
| Payment method | Pay at checkout |
| remarks |
ReservationsTHE HOTEL YAKUSHIMAcan be made at the tour desk at
Please feel free to contact us by email or phone.
Contact Person: Hirata
TEL: 0997-42-0175
reserve@hotel-yakushima.com
THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMA
1208-9
Miyanoura, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima 891-4205
Copyright © 2025 THE HOTEL YAKUSHIMA