What Is the “Kuguri-sugi,” a Must-See Attraction on Yakushima? How to Tour the Yakusugi, Yayoi-sugi, and Kigen-sugi Trees
Let's go see the "Kuguri Sugi" on Yakushima!
On Yakushima, there is a rare Yakusugi cedar tree called “hedge cedar (Cedrus deodara)"..." is available.
In this article, we’ll provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the Kuguri-sugi’s characteristics, where it can be found, and how it differs from other famous cedar trees in the area.
If you're planning a trip to Yakushima, please be sure to use this as a reference.
◆For those who want to start preparing for a trek on Yakushima
◆For those who want to know the differences between Yakusugi, Yayoi-sugi, and Kigen-sugi
◆For those considering a visit to Yakusugi Land and Shiratani Unsuikyo
Yakushima Island
Click here for recommended tour ranking
Basic Information on Yakushima’s “Kuguri-sugi”
A "kuguri-sugi" is a cedar tree that has developed a hollow at the base of its trunk,A Yakusugi tree that people can walk throughof the
It is not a proper noun referring to a specific tree, but rather a term used to refer to all Yakusugi trees that have that shape.
When you walk through the forests of Yakushima, you see these all over the placeA cedar tree with a unique shapeYou can meet them there.
What Is a "Kuguri-sugi"?
As Yakusugi trees grow over many years, they may be affected by wind and snow, fallen trees, and decay.
As a result, part of the trunk...Natural CavitiesWhen this happens, the tree grows large enough for people to walk through, and such a tree is called a “Kuguri-sugi.”
There are several of these "crawl-through cedars" scattered throughout the forests of Yakushima.
Each one varies in size and shape, andEach one has its own unique characterThat's one of its charms!
Differences from Yakusugi
Yakusugi refers to the cedars that grow naturally on Yakushima1,000 years oldIt is a general term for cedar trees that exceed a certain height.
The term “Kuguri-sugi” refers to Yakusugi trees whose trunks are shaped in such a way that a person can walk through them.
In other words, “Yakusugi” is a broad category, and “Kuguri-sugi” is a subset of it.One distinctive typeSo that's how it is.
For this reason, the term “Kuguri-sugi” appears in multiple locations on Yakushima’s guide maps and information signs.
Natural Conditions for the Formation of "Kuguri-sugi" Trees
The background behind the formation of the "Kuguri-sugi" is specific to Yakushima,A climate with heavy rainfall and lush forestsThere are
It is said that high-humidity environments promote the growth of moss and fungi, making the tree trunk more prone to hollowing out.
In addition, fallen trees caused by typhoons or heavy snowfall, as well as damage to the bark caused by animals, can also lead to the formation of hollows.
The shapes created by nature over the course of many years are,One of the unique attractions of YakushimaIt is.
You can see the "Kuguri Sugi" tree
Major Locations and Features
You can see the "Kuguri-sugi" trees in several areas on Yakushima.
Here.Two particularly popular spotsto the following.
Yakusugiland
Yakusugi Land is located on Yakushima,Places Where You Can Easily Enjoy the Yakusugi ForestsIt is.
There are several walking trails throughout the park, and even the short trails for beginners are dotted with underpass cedar trees.
Course.30 minutes, 50 minutes, 80 minutes, 150 minutes, 210 minutesWith five different options to choose from, you can plan your walk to suit your stamina and schedule.
The path lined with cedar trees ranging in age from several hundred to over a thousand years is popular because it allows visitors to easily experience the atmosphere of an ancient forest.
There are many sections with boardwalks, which makes it easy to walk even with small children—that’s a nice bonus.
Access: 45 minutes by car from Yakushima Airport
Yakusugiland Trekking Tour
Click here to see the ranking
Yakusugiland Trekking Tour
▼Check out our recommendations here▼
Shiratani Unsui Gorge (Shiratani Unsui Gorge)
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is,A Deep, Moss-Covered ForestIt is a magical area that stretches out before you.
It is said to have served as the inspiration for the forest in *Princess Mononoke*, and attracts many tourists.
In addition to the "Crawl-Through Cedar," the trail offers plenty of other highlights, such as Taiko Rock and a moss-covered stream.
After the rain, the moss glows even more vividly, andA magical atmosphereYou can enjoy it.
Since the time required varies significantly depending on the course you choose, we recommend planning ahead.
◆Directions: About a 35-minute drive from Yakushima Airport
Hakutani Unsui Gorge Trekking Tour
Click here to see the ranking
▼Click here for our recommended Shiraya-Unsui Gorge tour▼
In comparison with Yakusugi, Yayoi-sugi, and Kigen-sugi
Explaining the Differences
In addition to the “Kuguri-sugi,” there are many other famous Yakusugi trees on Yakushima that have their own names.
Here.Differences from Common CedarLet's take a look!
What Is Yakusugi?
"Yakusugi" is a general term for Japanese cedar trees that grow naturally at elevations of 500 meters or higher and are over 1,000 years old.
Cedar trees younger than that are called “Kosugi” and are distinguished from Yakusugi.
The Forests of YakushimaSymbolic presenceIt can be said that
Some of the most famous Yakusugi trees have been given their own names and are popular tourist attractions.
Characteristics of the Yayoi Cedar
The Yayoi cedar is,Over 3,000 years oldIt is also known as the Yakusugi cedar.
It's easily accessible from the walking trail near the entrance to Yakusugi Land, and the tour takes about an hour round-trip.
Since there are many well-maintained roads,A Famous Cedar Tree You Can Easily Stop ByIt is popular as a [...].
With its thick trunk and majestic appearance, it's definitely worth seeing!
▼Click here for recommended tours featuring the Yayoi Cedar▼
▼Click here for more information about Yayoi Cedar▼
Characteristics of the Kigen Cedar
The "Kigen-sugi" is a Yakusugi cedar said to be 3,000 years old, andAlong the roadIt's a rare spot that you can visit.
It's located right next to the parking lot, so you can admire the giant trees up close without even having to go hiking.
It has become a popular, easily accessible tourist attraction on Yakushima.
We were also able to observe other epiphytes taking root on the trunk, andThe Ecosystem of YakushimaIt's a place where you can feel that.
Recommended even for those who aren't confident in their physical fitness!
Kigen Cedar Trekking Tour
Click here to see the ranking
▼Click here for our recommended Ancient Cedar Tour▼
Including the "Kuguri Sugi"
Model Itinerary for a Yakushima Cedar Tour
The Yakushima Cedar Tour is,Goals and Physical FitnessWe recommend choosing a course that fits your schedule.
Here, we’ll introduce two sample itineraries that include stops at the Yayoi Cedar and the Kigen Cedar.
A Half-Day Tour
Yakusugi Land · Yayoi Cedar Course
If you're short on time, we recommend the short course at Yakusugi Land!
From the entrance80 minutes round tripEven on a course of this length, you can enjoy sights such as the “Crawl-Through Cedar” and the “Great King Cedar.”
Since you can also stop by the Yayoi Cedar near the entrance to Yakusugi Land on your way back, it’s a good idea to set aside about two hours in total.
One of its appeals is that it’s easy to fit into your itinerary, since you can easily see everything in just half a day, even including travel time.
Yakusugiland Half Day Tour
▼Check out our recommendations here▼
A Day-Long Tour
Shiratani Unsui Gorge—Kigen-sugi Trail
For those who want to take their time and fully enjoy nature, we recommend the longer trail at Shiratani Unsuikyo.
On the trail that goes all the way to Taiko Rock,5 to 6 hours round-tripIt takes about
We also recommend planning a stop at the Kigen Cedar, which you can view from the roadside, either before or after your visit to Shiraya Unsuikyo.
Since the Kigen Cedar is located right next to the parking lot,Between TripsYou can easily visit it.
Shiratani Unsuikyo to Taiko-iwa Tour
▼Check out our recommendations here▼
Precautions for Visiting the "Kuguri-sugi" Tourist Attraction
To make your tour of the "Kuguri-sugi" cedars as enjoyable as possible,Key Points to Keep in Mind in AdvanceThere are
Impact of Weather and Season
Yakushima Island is known for its "35 days of rain in a month"It's an island known for its heavy rainfall."
Depending on the weather, the course may be closed, so we recommend checking for updates in advance.
It’s also a good idea to choose a time of year when the weather is generally sunny.
Since the forest’s appearance changes with the seasons, depending on when you visit,A Different Kind of CharmYou can enjoy the
▼Click here for more details on the weather in Yakushima▼
Clothing and Items to Bring
A Tour of the "Crawl-Through" CedarsTo ensure a comfortable experienceHere is a list of the clothing and items you'll want to prepare in advance.
・Rain gear (a must, since it rains a lot on Yakushima)
・Waterproof hiking shoes
・Layered outfits that can adapt to temperature changes
◆Things to bring
Drinks
・Light Meals
Insect repellent spray
If you prepare thoroughly, even in the forests of Yakushima, where the weather can change quickly,peace of mindYou can enjoy a stroll there.
What to Wear and What to Pack for a Trip to Yakushima
▼For more information, please click here.
About the "Kuguri Sugi"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
"Kuguri-sugi" is not a proper noun referring to a specific cedar tree, but rather a term used to describe all Yakusugi cedars that have naturally formed hollows at the base of their trunks, allowing people to crawl underneath and pass through. They can be seen at several locations on Yakushima.
Notable attractions include Yakusugi Land and Shiratani Unsuikyo. Yakusugi Land offers many trails that are easy even for beginners, while Shiratani Unsuikyo lets you encounter “crawling cedars” in a magical, moss-covered forest.
Since Yakushima is a region with a lot of rain, we recommend bringing rain gear and waterproof hiking shoes. It’s also a good idea to pack insect repellent, drinks, and light snacks for peace of mind.
summary
The "Kuguri-sugi" is a tree nurtured by the rich natural environment of Yakushima,A general term for Yakusugi trees whose trunks can be passed throughIt is.
In addition to seeing them at Yakusugi Land and Shiratani Unsuikyo, we also recommend exploring them alongside famous cedars such as the Yayoi Cedar and the Kigen Cedar!
If you dress appropriately and prepare for the weather, you'll be able to enjoy your walk in the woods even more.
Be sure to visit Yakushima and experience itsA Mysterious AppearanceBe sure to go check it out for yourself.
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
![[Yakushima · Private Tour] Led by a Female Guide! A Relaxing One-Day Forest Tour to Recharge Among Moss and Yakusugi Cedars](https://yakushima-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/a0e0857e7f1ee70e49fee427cac12402-825x510.jpg)
