What Is Yakushima’s “Kigen-sugi”? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Age, Differences from the Jomon-sugi, and How to Get There
The Charm of the Ancient Cedar and How to Get There
The Ultimate Guide!
Kigen cedars are,One of the iconic Yakusugi cedars of YakushimaIt is.
In this column, we’ll provide an easy-to-understand guide covering everything from basic information about the Kigen Cedar to how to get there and nearby tourist attractions.
It covers everything from how to read the signs to the trees’ ages and parking information, so please be sure to use it to help plan your trip to Yakushima.
◆For those who want to know the difference between the Jomon Sugi and the Kigen Sugi
◆For those who are wondering whether to visit the Kigen Cedar while sightseeing on Yakushima
◆For those who want to visit nearby tourist attractions along with the Ancient Cedar
Yakushima Island
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What is the "Era Cedar"?
Check the Basic Information
First, let’s start by covering the basics—such as how to read the name “Kigen-sugi,” its age, and its highlights.
There are many giant trees on Yakushima, but the Kigen Cedar stands out even among themA rare gem you can easily stop by by carIt is.
How to Read "Kigen-sugi"
The Kigen Cedar is “Way too cheerful"It is read as..."
Yakushima is home to numerous cedar trees, including the Jomon Sugi, that bear names reflecting their great age.
The name “Kigen-sugi” really evokes a sense of its long history, doesn’t it?
◆Directions: About 1 hour by car from Yakushima Airport
Age of the "Kigen" Cedar
The age of the "Kigen" cedar isApproximately 3,000 yearsIt is also said that
There are various theories regarding the tree's exact age, and no specific number of years has been definitively determined.
Even so, it is beloved by many tourists as one of the most impressive giant trees among the Yakusugi cedars.
When I see before me a being that has survived for so many years,Strength of NatureYou'll really feel it!
Features and Highlights of the "Kigen" Cedar
The "Epoch Cedar" starts from partway up the trunkJapanese white pine and hemlockIt is also known for being home to several different plants that grow on it.
Even though it's just a single tree, it looks just like a little forest.
Another attraction is that there’s a viewing deck set up, allowing visitors to observe the animals up close and at their leisure.
Nurtured by the rainy climate of Yakushima,A unique appearance you won't find anywhere elseBe sure to take a picture of it!
Kigen Cedar Trekking Tour
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▼Click here for our recommended Ancient Cedar Tour▼
The Difference Between the Kigen Cedar and the Jomon Cedar
Although the Kigen-sugi and the Jomon-sugi are both known as Yakusugi, in fact,Some DifferencesThere are
If you're not sure which one to visit, try using the following points as a guide.
Differences in Age and Size
The Kigen-sugi and the Jomon-sugi are,Age and SizeThere is a difference.
One of the Largest Trees on Yakushima
◆Ancient Cedar: Approximately 3,000 years old
As thick as the Jomon Sugi
You could say that both are iconic symbols of Yakushima.
Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour
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▼Click here for our recommended Jomon Sugi tours▼
Differences in accessibility
Ease of AccessThere are differences here as well.
◆Kigen Cedar: Located along the roadside; you can drive right up to it.
If you're worried about trekking, we recommend the Kigen Cedar!
Traveling with young childrenand ... andElderly peopleBut another great thing is that you can tour the place at your own pace.
Seniors and children welcome!
For Beginners] Yakushima Trekking Tour
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How to Get to the Ancient Cedar Tree
To the Ancient CedarAccessible by both bus and carIt is.
Let's take a look at each method.
Access by bus
To get to the Ancient Cedar,Yakushima TransportationYou can get there by taking the local bus operated by [Company Name].
If you board the bus from the Miyanoura or Awa areas and get off at the Kigen-sugi bus stop, you'll arrive at the sightseeing spot right away.
The number of trips is limitedTherefore, it's a good idea to check the schedule in advance.
Especially during the hiking season, there are early-morning services for hikers, so the number of passengers varies significantly depending on the time of day.
How to access by car
In the case of a car,Prefectural Road 77You can reach it by following the (commonly known as the Yakushima Park Anbo Line).
It takes about an hour from the Miyanoura and Awa areas.
A mountain road with many curvesTherefore, please drive with caution.
If you're renting a car, please make sure to drive with plenty of room to spare in case you need to pass oncoming traffic.
Parking lot information
Right next to the Ancient Cedar isFree parkingis established.
Since the number of parking spaces is limited, the lot may fill up during peak seasons.
I recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
How to Check Road Closure Information
The road leading to the Ancient Cedar has been affected by heavy rain and typhoons,closure (of a road)may become a
Before your visit, be sure to check the latest information on the Yakushima Town official website or through road information services.
especiallyThe rainy season and typhoon seasonPlease be careful.
Since plans may change suddenly, it's a good idea to build some flexibility into your itinerary.
Places to Visit Along with the Ancient Cedar
Sightseeing Spots
After visiting the Kigen Cedar by car, be sure to check out the nearby attractions you can easily stop by on your way.
If things run smoothly,Enjoy Yakushima’s Nature to the Fullest in Just One DaySure, I can do that.
Western Forest Road
Western Forest RoadThis area, which is also listed as a World Natural Heritage Site, is home to vast expanses of pristine forest.
If you're lucky.Yakushima sika (Cervus nippon yakushimae)and ... andYakushima macaque (Macaca fuscata yakui)You might even run into one.
It’s also great that it’s just a short drive from Kigen Sugi!
Since you'll mainly be driving through the area, please drive slowly and be mindful of wildlife.
◆Directions: About a 55-minute drive from Yakushima Airport
Click here for Western Forest Road Tour Ranking
▼Click here for recommended western forest road tours.
abundant natural beauty
Chihiro Falls is,Solid as a RockThis waterfall is known for its dynamic scenery as the water cascades down.
You can enjoy a spectacular view of the waterfall from the observation deck, and since it's close to the parking lot, it's easy to stop by.
Sightseeing on YakushimaMust-See SpotsIt's also popular.
Since it's relatively close to the Kigen Cedar, it's an easy stop to make while out for a drive, which is another appealing feature.
◆Directions: About a 40-minute drive from Yakushima Airport (to the parking lot), then about a 3-minute walk from the parking lot
Click here for the ranking of waterfall tours on Yakushima
▼Click here for our recommended waterfall tours▼
Awa River (in Nara Prefecture)
The Awa River is one of Yakushima’s most iconic clear-flowing rivers, andThe beauty of the crystal-clear water is its main attractionIt is.
As you drive along the river, you'll be able to enjoy the natural scenery that is so characteristic of Yakushima.
If I have timeCanoeing ExperienceWe also recommend activities like these!
During the summer, many tourists come to enjoy playing in the river, making it a great spot to relax and cool off.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
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What You Should Know Before Visiting the Ancient Cedar
important point
Before visiting the Ancient Cedar, consider the weather, what to wear, and other factorsPoints to Check in AdvanceThe following is a summary of the following information.
Weather Characteristics Around the Kigen Cedar
The Ancient Cedar isAt a high elevationBecause it is located in this area, temperatures are lower than in the lowlands, and the weather tends to change frequently.
Even when it's sunny, fog can suddenly roll in or it can start to rain.
Be sure to check the latest weather forecast before your visit.
Yakushima Island is known for its "It rains 35 days a month"It is also known as an island with so much rain that people say..."
Preparing Your Clothing and Belongings
Before your visit,Clothing and BelongingsLet's make sure we're fully prepared!
・A jacket you can wear even in summer because of the high altitude
・Rain gear (rainwear)
・Comfortable walking shoes
◆Things to bring
・Insect repellent spray
・Rainwear you can carry with you no matter the season
Sudden Changes in the WeatherDon't forget to make the necessary preparations in advance so that you're ready for any situation.
About the "Kigen" Cedar
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is read as “Kigen-sugi.” It is a Yakusugi cedar—one of the giant trees native to Yakushima—said to be approximately 3,000 years old.
While reaching the Jomon Sugi requires a roughly 5-hour one-way hike, the Kigen Sugi is located right beside the road and can be reached by car. We recommend the Kigen Sugi for those who want to see the Yakusugi cedars without much effort.
Roads may be closed due to heavy rain or typhoons. Be sure to check the latest conditions on the Yakushima Town official website or through road information services before your visit.
summary
Kigen-sugi is easily accessible by car,One of Yakushima's most iconic giant treesIt is.
Learning how to read the tree’s age and understanding the differences between it and the Jomon Sugi will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Be sure to visit the nearby tourist attractions as well, andNature of YakushimaWhy not try enjoying it to the fullest?
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
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