Do

Visit Japan’s oldest forestYakushima Island, Japan

Come face to face with Japan’s oldest living trees. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed forests of Yakushima are inhabited by flourishing yakusugi (Japanese cedar), some which are believed to be more than 7000 years old. To ensure the natural growth of these magnificent trees remains undisturbed – they’re also the habitat of many animals including red-bottomed macaque monkeys and white sika deer – trails have been created to wind around the tangled roots and mossy stones.

With miles of terrain to cover, you have every chance of getting a glimpse of these local creatures in this magical place. For adventurous visitors who want more than a day trip, there are cabins available within the forest that can be used overnight by hikers and campers. 


get there

Multiple daily ferries sail from Kagoshima to two ports on Yakushima, Miyanoura and Anbo. JAC (Japan Commuter Airlines), part of Japan Airlines, operates flights from Kagoshima to Yakushima.
jal.co.jp

Japan National Tourism Organization
jnto.org.au

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Tags: ancient forests, japan, natural wonders, Yakushima

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