Getting Started
Yakushima, a remote island in Kagoshima Prefecture, was designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 1993. There is an enchanting jungle on this island said to have served as the inspiration for the primeval forest depicted in Hayao Miyazaki's animated film, "Princess Mononoke."
The trailhead is known as Shiratani Unsuikyo. You can reach there by taking buses, driving to the trailhead, or opting for a taxi. If you visit during the rainy season, there is a possibility that the river might be flooded and impassable. I suggest checking the Yakushima Official Twitter page, where they have daily updates on trail closures.
Here are a few important points to keep in mind: there is a 500 yen entrance fee, you will find several washrooms along the trail as well as at the entrance, there is ample free parking available, and it is essential to take your trash with you when you leave.
The Trail
First, you can watch my YouTube guide.
On the map, the Taikoiwa Rock Trail is marked as a deep green route. At the entrance, you will find a map that is available in English, Chinese, and Korean languages. There will be a person who collects a 500 yen entrance fee and provides you with a pamphlet guide.
12:00 The hike typically takes half a day, so I recommend starting your hike around noon. The initial 15 minutes of the trail takes you alongside the river until you reach a bridge.
After crossing the bridge, you will enter the mossy jungle where you'll notice abundant moss growth covering practically everything.
13:00 You'll find Shiratani Hut, equipped with washroom facilities, a picnic table for lunch, and even a simple camping area for those planning to stay overnight. If you're looking to have a meal, this is the last designated area where you can do so comfortably, as eating food is not permitted beyond this point.
Keep walking for another 15 minutes until you reach Kokemusu Forest, the central part of the Princess Mononoke jungle that served as the inspiration.
You will arrive at a rest area marked by a sign indicating a steep climb towards Taikoiwa Rock. It usually takes around 15 minutes to ascend to the rock.
14:00 From the rock, you'll be greeted by a magnificent panoramic view of the island and its verdant, dense jungle. Notably, this is the very rock where Ashitaka stood, gazing over the jungle in a famous scene from the movie.
16:00 Retrace your way back to Shiratani Unsuikyo.
My Recommendation
Many hikers opt to hire guides who can provide information about various spots along the trail that inspired the movie. If you're interested in such details and a guided experience, you can choose to book with them. However, it's important to note that hiring a guide for the trail itself is not necessary. The path is straightforward, easy to follow, and there's little risk of getting lost.
If you're seeking a local Japanese guide, Teruya is the ideal choice. He possesses excellent communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and extensive knowledge of the best photo spots along the trail. With Teruya as your guide, you can expect an exceptional experience.
It's worth nothing that the island experiences frequent harsh weather, including severe rainfall, and is known for having the highest rainfall in all of Japan, particularly during the typhoon season. The peak rainfall seasons occur between April and October. It is highly recommended to come prepared for rain and choose your visit to the island accordingly. Speaking from my own experience, I had two expeditions, one of which was scheduled in September but had to be cut short due to a typhoon.