Yakushima-Sarukawa Banyan Tree
Is this where the Kijimuna live?
Mysterious Spots on Yakushima That Appear Out of Nowhere
Sarukawa Banyan Tree (Sarukawa Gajumaru)is a vast grove of banyan trees that stands quietly in the forests of the Anbo and Hirano districts on Yakushima.
As you turn off the county road and head up into the mountains, the hanging aerial roots intertwine like ropes.Sarukawa Banyan Tree...suddenly appears.
With a mysterious atmosphere that makes you feel as if the Kijimuna fairies might live there, it’s one of the places on Yakushima where...Hidden Gem Tourist SpotsIt is known as the
The area covered by the branches extends to about 10 ares (1,000 square meters).
The sight of countless banyan trees standing in the forest, their twisted branches intertwined in every direction, is truly breathtaking.
The sight of the aerial roots slowly lifting even large rocks as they grow is,The Beauty of NatureandThe Power of Hidden EnergyIt shows the
The banyan tree isThe Tree Where Spirits DwellIt is also said that Yakushima is home to wild banyan trees.Northern LimitThis is a spot where you can experience the vibrant energy of the tropics up close.
| Spot Name | Sarukawa Banyan Tree(Sarukawa Banyan Tree) |
|---|---|
| Location | Anbo (Hirano District), Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture |
| Directions (by Car) | About 10 minutes from Awa Port (approx. 7.2 km along Prefectural Road 77) |
| Directions (Bus) | About a 10-minute walk from the "Nakahashi" bus stop (No. 81) on the Tanegashima-Yakushima Transportation line *Please check the schedule |
| parking lot | Available (free; limited number) |
| Fees | free |
| Restrooms and Dining Areas | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) |
| Tour Hours | Open to Visitors |
Highlights of the Sarukawa Banyan Tree
The main attraction is the countless aerial roots hanging down from the trunk.
The banyan tree is a tree that grows by twining around other trees and rocks, “The Strangling TreeIt is a type of [...], and the way its roots extend as if embracing the rock embodies the very energy of nature itself.
The quiet forest echoes with the murmur of the river and the songs of birds, and as you walk through the dense subtropical vegetation, you’ll feel as if you’ve wandered into a jungle.
In 2017,Filming Locations for Chinese MoviesIt’s a hidden gem known only to those in the know, and it was even selected as one of the top spots.
If you're taking a photo,The part where the trunk forms a V-shapeI recommend this. If you shoot from a slightly lower angle, looking up, you can capture the entire banyan tree in the frame.
◆Jungle exploration feeling
◆You can observe a spectacular group of banyan trees with their aerial roots intertwined
◆Parents and children can play on a natural jungle gym.
◆A hole-in-the-wall tourist attraction so we can enjoy ourselves to the fullest.
◆Admission is free, so feel free to stop by
How to enjoy Sarukawa Banyan Tree
The banyan tree, which has grown large in the warm climate of Yakushima, is a must-see for plant lovers.
The growth process of the pneumatic roots is a particular highlight, and the childrenNature's Jungle GymYou can play as
From climbing to swinging from the banyan trees, everyone—from kids to adults—can have a blast.
A hole-in-the-wall tourist attractionSo you can enjoy the great nature of Yakushima without worrying about being seen.
⬇︎Recommended tours around Sarukawa Banyan Tree are here: ⬇︎
How to Get to Sarukawa Banyan Tree
The Sarukawa Banyan Tree is located in the Hira region of Awa, just before Chihiro Falls.
If you're arriving by rental car, there is a parking area that can accommodate a few cars, located just off the road near the sign along Prefectural Route 77 (the loop road).
From there, after walking a few minutes along a trail that looks like a mountain animal path,Huge banyan treesA lush forest of
It's easy to stop by on a drive around the island in a clockwise direction, andWe recommend visiting this spot along with Chihiro Falls.It is.
Since the trail is a natural mountain path, the ground can get muddy on rainy days.Walking in the JunglePlease choose your shoes and clothes as if you were in the same situation.
◆The ground is muddy and slippery, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
◆There are no restrooms or vending machines here, so it’s a good idea to take care of those needs in the Awa area beforehand.
◆Since this is a natural area, please enjoy it responsibly so as not to damage the trees or roots.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sarukawa Banyan Tree
Other Banyan Tree Spots on Yakushima
Some of the most popular spots to see banyan trees on Yakushima are:Shidoko Banyan Tree Garden(Admission fee required; walking trails available),banyan tree in the middle of a bay (Ficus microcarpa or Ficus retusa)(a tree that serves as a symbol of the village), andSarukawa Banyan TreeThese are three locations (free and off-the-beaten-path spots with clusters of [...]).
If you’d like to take a leisurely stroll through well-maintained grounds, we recommend Shidoko; if you’d like to experience a sense of adventure amid unspoiled nature, we recommend Sarukawa.
