Amazing, beautiful experience. This place feels magical. There are 3 paths available: short (1h), medium (3h) and long (4h). We did the short hike and it took us just under 2 hours because we stopped a lot to take pictures. It was a nice and sunny day, so I don't know how slippery it gets when it's raining.

We hiked from Shiratani, through Kusugawa junction, till the Arakawa trail entrance. It took 5 hours, including numerous stops to take pictures and relax. I am a regular hiker, and it was the more serene hike ever for me. The forest is very natural. The layers of moss all over the trees, stones, bridges, give it a spectacular vibe. There are numerous streams flowing down the mountains. These streams are the reason for the moss. Also, these streams lead to many tiny water falls here and there. Also, they carry totally pristine and transparent water. Some people say that this water is even good for drinking. Very convenient and safe too. We spotted a few deers and monkeys though. The monkeys didn't get bothered from our presence, while the deers ran away afraid on seeing us. The trail from Shiratani to the Rock is a bit busy. It is quite lonely but very natural and serene from the rock till Kusugawa junction. This part is where we encountered the deers and monkeys. From Kusugawa junction till the Arakawa trail entrance, there is a old rail/trolly track. There also comes the ruins of an old settlement in this region. So, all three parts of the trek give different vibes. You also come across multiple mountain huts if you want to rest. These huts can mainly be seen from Shiratani till the rock though. Overall, it was great and beautiful day!

Loved it!! We did the 5 hour trail and climbed up to the Taikaiwa rock at the very top! So worth it. If you go to either Shiratani Unsui or Yakusugi Land, you get a discount coupon for the other. There are restrooms midway

The woods are beautiful, the atmosphere is incredible. Definitely worth visiting, even for a short walk.

An incredible experience. This tranquil place is inspirational to walk through and leaves a lasting impression on your mind. This is the place that inspired the film 'Princess Mononoke'. There's so much to see. I saw monkeys on the way in, and the entrance has a beautiful waterfall that's worth the drive for that alone. There's lots of mossy rocks and trees, several Japanese trees whose age dates back to around the years of the Roman Republic, and lots of waterfalls and streams. Some of the paths have steep climbs, and it was physically challenging in parts, though I had no hiking gear bar the boots. Hiking poles would've made the return journey more enjoyable. Recommended times on the map are conservative. I did the longest walk which recommends 4 hrs, though even with many photo breaks and some rest it was still only about 3 hrs or less. Time the course you want to do depending on your fitness level, and climbing confidence. If you want to give yourself time and do multiple trails, go first thing in the morning and pack water and snacks. Though one water bottle is enough as the water from the streams are delicious.

All green and easy to walk. Top of the trail where there is a big boulder with lookout towards the opposite mountains is said to be the highlight of the trail. I disagree. The detrail deep knot the green woods is the real gem.

Never thought I could be this amazed by nature. Very nice hike... Took the 1hr your only and easy to handle even for a beginner hiker. Make sure to bring food and drink.

Beautiful area for a hike. First part is easy, then it gets harder and hard further up the mountain.

Probably the most beautiful hike I did. The forest feels magical and it was a bright day, so you could see the moss so clearly and beautifully. I recommend to go all the way to the drum rock, it’s worth it! It also seems like you can do this hike in rainy days, maybe it’s a bit less comfortable but possible. There will be many muddy puddles so be careful.

Beautiful magical nature. We even got to see few Yakuzaru (Yakushima macaque). The hike is short but you should bring shoes that are waterproof.

Beautiful trail. Different routes for different level hikers. We only wore Nike sneakers and UGG boots and able to walk around 1/2 the trail. Very worthwhile and a must go.

Once in a lifetime hike. Ghibli fan or not, if you’re visiting Yakushima you must visit here and at least see the Taiko Iwa / Drum Rock. The path to the Rock is fairly straightforward and clearly marked. The descent from the rock down is steep so I would recommend bringing a hiking pole if you have one. If you fancy a longer, more challenging route, definitely consider heading to one of the other alternatives as well as fitting in the Drum Rock. On a good day, you’ll find deer running around the moss covered forests - truly magical. Purchasing tickets at Shiratani gives you ¥200 off the entry tickets to Yakusugi Land - so definitely consider taking advantage of that if you will be in Yakushima long enough. Piece of advice regarding food - you can’t eat/drink in the moss forest area or the Rock, so consider taking a break at the rest spot 20 minutes before Drum Rock to refresh.

Despite beautiful place, It's a hard trecking into the jungle. You hike the most of the time going up. Bathroom is available at the entrance of the treck and another 5 km ahead. There is no beverage machine. At the first bridge you need to choose between two trails, the one crossing the bridge you have more chance to see monkeys.

Spectacular place. 500 yen entrance fee, that leads to Taiko-Iwa (a bit steep but so worth the view), the the forest and cave from Ghibili film, Princess Mononoke, and so much more. A very peaceful and nature packed hike.

Amazing! The entire forest is dressed up by Moss it's really like being in a fairy tale. So serene. I don't drive but it's accessible via the island bus, around 30mins from Miyaunoura ferry terminal.

An incredibly beautiful forest path. We’ve never seen a more spectacular forest. Everyone visiting Yakushima should go on a walk here. But beware, depending on the weather some paths might get closed, since you‘ll sometimes need to cross rivers.

A must visit! There are different hiking paths for each physical condition and time available. The nature is gorgeous! You can reach it from Miyanoura port area by bus. Buses stop quite early though... Around 16h. So, plan accordingly. Entrance fee is 500 yen per adult. Flip flops are not allowed (fyi). Come prepare with good hiking shoes, longest individual route is about 4h.

Beautiful scenery, and a medium difficulty hike. 500Y entrance fee. The hiking trails start out as well maintained and easy but gradually become very difficult. Totally worth the visit.

It's amazing! The paths were rough n slippery, but u can b amazed with how strong will trees have to survive in such critical condition. The trees grow slow because of the huge rocks that lays on the surface disturbing the roots reaching out into the soil and less sun; Yakushima is famous for its rainy days, 350 days! The moss were doooo adorable, too.