To the stage of Ghibli's "Princess Mononoke
Mononoke Forest Trekking Tour

白谷雲水峡〜もののけの森まで！トレッキング

Princess Mononoke" is a masterpiece by Studio Ghibli. Did you know that the mysterious forest landscape is said to be modeled after the real place, Yakushima Island?

To fully enjoy the mysterious Mononoke no Mori (Mononoke Forest/Taikoiwa) forest on beautiful Yakushima Island, which has been registered as a World Natural Heritage site, we recommend joining a tour!

For those who...

◆Those who are interested in Mononoke Forest in Yakushima
◆Those looking for a tour to enjoy the Mononoke Forest
◆Those who want to know why Yakushima Island was the setting of Princess Mononoke and the scenes

In this issue, we will introduce tours to enjoy the Mononoke Forest of Yakushima and the reason why it is said to be the model for the movie "Princess Mononoke!

Why was Yakushima Island the model for Princess Mononoke?

屋久島がもののけ姫のモデルになった理由とは？

Hayao Miyazaki and the production staff of "Princess Mononoke",Untouched Nature of YakushimaIt is said that he drew his inspiration for the movie scene from

For this reason, Yakushima has the following characteristics.

Fantastic forest of mossy rocks and fallen trees

屋久島がもののけ姫のモデルになった理由とは？

Walking through the forests of Yakushima, you will see a carpet of green with moss growing thickly on the ground and on fallen trees.

The "moss forest" in Shiratani-unsui Gorge is, as the name implies, aFantastic place with mossy rocks and fallen treesand invites visitors to enter the world of the film.

Giant trees over 1,000 years old produce
Solemn atmosphere

屋久島がもののけ姫のモデルになった理由とは？

On Yakushima Island,Yakusugi cedar trees over 1,000 years oldThe famous Jomon cedars, in particular, are said to be 7,200 years old. In particular, the famous Jomon cedars are said to be 7,200 years old, and their overwhelming presence creates an atmosphere as if they were inhabited by gods!

These majestic giant trees are reminiscent of the ancient nature and the presence of the Deer God depicted in "Princess Mononoke.

↓Learn more about Jomon Cedars

Yakushima Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour One of the largest and most representative giant trees of Yakushima Jomon Cedar Trekking Tour Jomon Cedar is the symbol of Yakushima. It is said to be the oldest plant in the world, and is one of the largest and oldest Yakusugi cedar trees, being thick and large. The trunk of the giant tree, which has lived for 7200 years, is very uneven and its [...]. (5 in total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

Lush greenery due to overwhelming rainfall

屋久島がもののけ姫のモデルになった理由とは？

Yakushima Island is a region with so much rainfall that it is described as "raining 35 days a month. This abundant rainfall produces mossy forests and lush greenery. After the rain, the trees and mosses in the forests look as beautiful as they do in the movies.The very atmosphere of a forest shrouded in fog.It is.

By visiting, you will experience firsthand the preciousness of nature and the strength of life depicted in the film!

See the list of Mononoke Forest Trekking Plans

What is KODAMA?

こだまって何？

The "Kodama" in the film is,The Spirit in the TreesThe character is depicted as This character symbolizes the very life force that resides in the forests of Yakushima.

Walking on Yakushima Island, there are moments of silence and breath of life that make you feel the presence of Kodama. During the actual trekking, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and trees, you will feel like you are about to meet Kodama in a movie♪.

↓Click here for trekking tours around the world of the movie

Yakushima/Half-day charter] Even 75-year-olds can participate! Trekking tour to enjoy the Mononoke Forest of "Shiratani-unsui Gorge," which was the setting of a movie (No.39)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours10,000 yen

Comparison of scenes with Princess Mononoke

View from Taikoiwa

もののけ姫とのシーン比較

Taikoiwa, located at the far end of Shiratani-unsui Gorge, is a spectacular spot that evokes the magnificent natural scene of the view from Moro no Iwaya.

From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast forests of Yakushima and feel as if you have entered the world of movies.

grotto

もののけ姫とのシーン比較

Further on through the mossy forest, this rockery is said to resemble the place depicted in the movie as the home of the mountain dog Moro.

Located on the way to Taikoiwa, this spot offers a mysterious atmosphere of nature.

mossy forest

もののけ姫とのシーン比較

Located in the middle of the Taikoiwa Course in Shiratani-unsui Gorge, this forest is covered in moss, creating a fantastic landscape reminiscent of a scene from a movie.

It is said that Hayao Miyazaki visited this place and got inspiration for his works!

See the list of Mononoke Forest Trekking Plans

How to get to Mononoke no Mori (Shiratani Unsui Gorge) & Required Time

もののけの森（白谷雲水峡）への行き方＆所要時間

Shiratani-unsuikyo is located in the Miyanoura district in the northern part of Yakushima,Shiratani Plaza is the starting pointwill be.

Access to Shiratani Plaza

The trip from Miyanoura Port or Yakushima Airport takes about 30 to 40 minutes by car or bus.

◆If you go by bus
Take the Yakushima Kotsu bus and get off at the Shiratani Unsuikyo Iriguchi bus stop. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the trailhead.

◆Parking information
There is a private parking lot near the entrance to Shiratani-unsui Gorge, but the number of cars is limited, so the lot may be full early in the morning during peak season.

It is especially crowded during the peak season,Early morning tours are recommended.It is!

↓Click here for recommended early morning tours.

Yakushima】Trekking tour to visit the mysterious forest "Shiratani Unsui Gorge - Mononoke no Mori - Taikoiwa" to avoid crowds by starting early in the morning! Recommended for those who take a flight in the afternoon 《with pickup and drop-off》（No.72）.開始時間5:30 - 2:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 7 hours14,300 yen

Yakushima】Early morning start to avoid crowds☆You can join before departure on the last day!開始時間5:30-11:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours9,350 yen

もののけの森（白谷雲水峡）への行き方＆所要時間

The time required for trekking in Shiratani-unsui Gorge varies depending on the course you choose.

If you want to have fun in a short time,Approximately 3 hours one-way course to the moss forest courseis the best choice. It can be enjoyed in half a day and is recommended for beginners.

If you want to enjoy a solid trekking experience,Course to "Taikoiwa" beyond the moss forestis a good choice. This is a full-scale trekking course for intermediate level trekkers that takes about 5 hours one way and offers a full taste of the charm of Yakushima!

Shiratani-unsui Gorge Point

Shiratani Plaza
↓arrow (mark or symbol)
Moss Forest (~3 hours one way)
↓arrow (mark or symbol)
Taikoiwa (~5 hours one way)

↓Click here to read the article.

Tour of the setting of "Princess Mononoke" at Shiratani-unsuikyo, Yakushima! Recommended tours and Ghibli spotsContents1 Ghibli fans will be moved! A trip to Yakushima Island to visit the world of "Princess Mononoke"☆2 What is Shiratani-unsuikyo in Yakushima Island? The reason why Princess Mononoke was set in Yakushima☆3 Where is the Mononoke Forest? The time required to visit the Mononoke Forest and the details of the course3.1 Shirotani [...].

Mononoke no Mori (Shiratani Unsui Gorge) Course Introduction and Highlights

Moss Forest Course (for beginners)

もののけの森（白谷雲水峡）コース紹介・見どころ

It takes about 3 hours one way to reach the moss forest, so even beginners can easily experience the fantastic scenery.

There are two routes,Route through Kusu River Trailis a relatively flat path and is recommended for older people and those with children.

on the other handWilderness Trail RouteThe "Yakusugi" cedar trees, including the giant "Bongyo-sugi" (Japanese cedar), can be seen in the forest. It is a little difficult to walk through the forest because of the many roots, but the deeper you go into the forest, the quieter and more mysterious it becomes, and you will experience the charm of the virgin forest, especially in Shiratani Unsui Gorge.

↓Click here for recommended Shiratani-unsui Gorge tours.

Yakushima/Half Day] Beginners are welcome! Shiratani-unsuikyo" standard trekking tour to the Mononoke Forest 《Participation OK up to 70 years old, pick-up and drop-off included》（No.71）.開始時間7:45-12:30 / 12:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 4 hours8,250 yen

↓Click here to read the article.

Shiratani-unsui Gorge in Yakushima｜Investigation of travel time and course detailsContents1 What is Shiratani-unsui Gorge? 2 Attractions of Shiratani-unsui Gorge 2.1 "Moss Forest," a Yakushima World Natural Heritage site 2.2 Full-scale trekking! The spectacular view from Taikoiwa Rock3 The best season to visit Shirotani Unsui Gorge4 Shirotani Unsui Gorge [...].

Can I visit Shiratani-unsui Gorge without a guide?Contents1 Can you visit Shiratani-unsui Gorge without a guide2 How to get to Shiratani-unsui Gorge Notes on visiting Shiratani-unsui Gorge and parking information3 Major trails in Shiratani-unsui Gorge explained3.1 Recommended route for beginners3.2 How to get to Taiko-iwa and its spectacular view3.3 [...].

Taikoiwa Course (for intermediate level)

もののけの森（白谷雲水峡）コース紹介・見どころ

It takes about 5 hours one way to reach "Taiko Iwa," a spectacular spot that appears when you continue beyond the mossy forest. From Taikoiwa, you can see the mountains of Yakushima and the vast nature!

The Taikoiwa course is a steep and challenging trek, though,The spectacular view from Taikoiwa is so beautiful that it makes you forget all the hard work.It is.

↓Click here for recommended Shiratani-unsui Gorge tours.

Yakushima/One-day charter] 75-year-olds can also join this tour! You can choose the route ☆ "Shiratani-unsui Gorge" of mossy forest & "Taikoiwa" of 1,050m high "Trekking tour with spectacular view (No.40)開始時間9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 6 hours12,000 yen

Yakushima Island / 1 day] Beginners are welcome! Trekking tour to the mysterious forest "Shiratani-unsui Gorge - Mononoke Forest - Taikoiwa" to heal your mind and body (No.70)開始時間7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,200 yen

Selected] Trekking tour of the stage of Ghibli's "Princess Mononoke

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

While taking time to enjoy the nature of Yakushima,Trekking tour to experience the setting of Princess Mononokewere carefully selected.

From beginners to experienced travelers, choose the tour that best suits you according to your objectives and fitness level!

See the list of Mononoke Forest Trekking Plans

[Enjoy in a short time
Half-day tour of Shiratani-Unsui Gorge for beginners

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

This is a short tour for those who are new to Yakushima or have little time to spare. This plan focuses on the iconic spots of the "Mononoke Forest" such as the moss forest.

The course from near the entrance of Shiratani-unsui Gorge to the moss forest has many gentle paths,Safe for children and elderly people.Â

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

The serenity and vitality you will feel in the mossy forest will be enough to satisfy you even in a short time. This tour is also recommended for those who wish to visit other sightseeing spots in the afternoon!

Recommendations

◆Required time: approx. 4 hours

Since it's a half-daySightseeing on Yakushima Island is also enjoyable enough.
○Consider carefully observing the stream flowing through the forest and moss-covered fallen trees.
After it rains, moss shines in the forest, creating an even more fantastic atmosphere.
○You can also listen to behind-the-scenes stories of "Princess Mononoke" told by local guides!

Enjoying a relaxing time.
Full-day tour of Shiratani-unsui Gorge for all generations

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

This is a full-day tour to enjoy the nature of Yakushima. The route from moss forest to Taikoiwa,proceed at a reasonable paceTherefore, it is popular among those who are not confident in their physical strength and the elderly.

Walking while listening to the guide's commentary, you will deepen your understanding of not only the beauty but also the nature and history of Yakushima♪ Even if it is your first time trekking, you can participate with peace of mind because of the excellent support provided.

Recommendations

◆Time required: approx. 3-6 hours

symbol used as a placeholder (either because a number of other words could be used in that position or because of censorship)According to the level ofChoice of courses
Enjoy the varied nature from moss forest to taikoiwa (drum rocks)
Along the course, visitors can observe hundreds of year-old Yakusugi cedar trees and a wide variety of plants.
Taikoiwa offers a spectacular 360° view, and on a clear day, you can even see the ocean in the distance.

[Exclusive quiet forest
Early morning departure☆Shirotani Unsui Gorge tour to avoid crowds

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

This plan aims to start in the early morning hours when there are fewer tourists. Even in popular Shiratani-unsuikyo where crowds are expected,You can fully enjoy the sounds and atmosphere of nature during the quiet hours☆.

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

If the flight is in the afternoon, you can join the tour on the last day! This is a great way to visit other tourist attractions with plenty of time to spare after the tour is over.

Recommendations

◆Time required: approx. 4-7 hours

If you are flying in the afternoonYou can participate even on the last day.
If you arrive at Taikoiwa before the crowds, you can enjoy the spectacular view at your leisure.
The mossy forest illuminated by the morning sun is a special view that changes its expression depending on the time of day.
A luxurious experience with the silence of the forest, the chirping of birds, and the murmuring of the river all to yourself.

Yakushima】Early morning start to avoid crowds☆You can join before departure on the last day!開始時間5:30-11:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours9,350 yen

Greedy One-Day Plan
Tour to Shiratani-unsui Gorge and the spectacular scenery of Yakushima

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

This luxury plan is recommended for those who want to enjoy not only Shiratani-unsui Gorge but also other places of interest on Yakushima together.

In this tour, after visiting moss forests and taikoiwa (drum rocks), you can enjoy the charm of the entire island by visiting other spectacular spots on Yakushima! Many people use this tour as a solo trip to seek the healing power of nature on Yakushima.

Recommendations

◆Required time: about 7 hours

symbol used as a placeholder (either because a number of other words could be used in that position or because of censorship)Lunch & photo service availableEasy to participate with
In addition to the nature of Shiratani-unsui Gorge,Chihiro Falls and Okawa Falls.Enjoy the spectacular view spots
○Experience the diversity of Yakushima by observing the different plants and animals depending on the season.

Shiratani-unsui Gorge Trekking] A private tour with a forest bathing female guide! One-day plan to visit the most suitable course for each customer in Shiratani-unsui Gorge 《Private tour with a difference according to your wishes》 (No.16)開始時間8:00-17:00所要時間6 to 7 hours12,100 yen

↓Click here for the Hakutani Unsui Gorge tour with sightseeing tour by car.

Yakushima Island】Trekking & Island Sightseeing Tour (No.54) Recommended for those who are not confident about their physical strength★Shirotani Unsui Gorge "Mononoke no Mori" Trekking & Island Sightseeing Tour (No.54)開始時間8:00 - 15:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours30,000 yen

【厳選】ジブリ作品『もののけ姫』の舞台トレッキングツアー

Also available are Shiratani-unsui Gorge tours that can be combined with Jomon Cedar trekking or river kayaking.

Immerse yourself in the world of Ghibli.Please enjoy the rich nature of Yakushima to the fullest!

↓Click here for Jomon Cedar set tour

Yakushima】This is a great deal for a 2-day set tour! Enjoy the tour of "Jomon Cedars" and "Shiratani-Unsui Gorge" trekking!開始時間: (Day 1) 4:00-5:00 p.m.
(Day 2) 7:45-16:00所要時間: (Day 1) approx. 10 hrs.
(Day 2) Approx. 7 hours28,600 yen

Yakushima Island] 2-day set tour! 1-day trekking tour of 7200-year-old "Jomon Cedars" + half-day trekking tour of "Shiratani Unsui Gorge" (Popular with 3-day/2-night travelers☆ (No.68)開始時間: (Day 1) 4:00-5:00 p.m.
(Day 2) 7:45-12:30所要時間: (Day 1) approx. 10 hrs.
(Day 2) Approx. 4 hours23,650 yen

↓Click here for Marine Activity Set Tour

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & SUP Tour (with packed lunch & pick-up) (No.10)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours17,050 yen

【屋久島】白谷雲水峡トレッキング＆体験ダイビング1日ツアー《お弁当付き・水中デジカメ無料貸出あり》（No.4）のアイキャッチ画像

Yakushima / 1 Day] Shiratani-unsui Gorge Trekking & Diving Tour Photo Present☆Enjoy both the sea and mountains of Yakushima♪ (No.4)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours19,250 yen

白谷雲水峡トレッキング＆シュノーケリング1日ツアー《お弁当付き・水中デジカメ無料貸出あり》（No.3）のアイキャッチ

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours14,850 yen

Yakushima / 1 Day] Shiratani-unsui Gorge (up to moss forest) Trekking & Awa River Kayak Tour (No.5)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours17,050 yen

What to wear and bring when going to Mononoke Forest

もののけの森へ行くときの服装・持ち物

To enjoy the Mononoke Forest safely and comfortably, dress appropriately and prepare your belongings!

Yakushima Island has a lot of rainfall.Be sure to bring rain gearLet's do it.

Also, the moss forest is at 860m above sea level, and if you go up to Taikoiwa, you will have to climb up to 1050m above sea level. There is a temperature difference from the foot of the mountain,Don't forget warm clothes that are easy to take off and put on.Take it with you.

Trekking Clothing

◆Tops: quick-drying long-sleeved shirts, rainwear or windproof jackets (for sudden rain and wind).

◆Bottoms: Long pants for trekking that are easy to move (to prevent grass and injury).

◆Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes, thick socks

◆Cold weather gear: fleece or light down jacket for early morning and evening chill

What to bring for trekking

◆Essentials: backpack, drinks (1L or more), snacks (packed lunch if it is a full-day tour)

◆Rain protection: waterproof backpack cover, raincoat

◆Safety equipment: headlights, first aid kit (plasters, etc.)

Others: Towel, hat, insect repellent, portable toilet, garbage bag, camera

Frequently asked questions about the stage trekking tour for the Ghibli film Princess Mononoke

Q. Which island was the model for Princess Mononoke?

Yakushima Island, located in the south of Kagoshima Prefecture, is known as the model for the setting of "Princess Mononoke" because of its rich nature and mossy forests. Shiratani-unsui Gorge and the Jomon cedars are reminiscent of the mystical scenery that appears in the film.

Q. Where is the sacred place of Princess Mononoke?

This is Shiratani-unsui Gorge on Yakushima Island. In particular, the area called "moss forest" is a popular spot visited by many fans for its fantastic scenery reminiscent of the "Mononoke Forest" in "Princess Mononoke.

Q. Why was Princess Mononoke set on Yakushima Island?

The reason was that the pristine natural landscape of Yakushima matched the film's worldview.

When the film's production staff visited Yakushima, they were impressed by the mossy forests, 1,000-year-old Yakusugi cedars, and lush greenery created by the abundant rainfall, which is said to have inspired the setting of "Princess Mononoke". It is believed that the serene and vital nature of Yakushima deeply resonated with the theme of the film.

New experiences of trekking tours to the setting of Ghibli's "Princess Mononoke

User_nuvk / 40s Posted on 2025-08

Since we were given a private tour, we were able to ask many questions without worrying about others. The female guide's unique perspective was sympathetic and friendly.

Yakushima / 1 Day] Shiratani-unsui Gorge (up to moss forest) Trekking & Awa River Kayak Tour (No.5)

User_plos / 30s Posted on 2025-08

The forest and river set was the right choice! The mysterious atmosphere of the mossy forest and the exhilarating experience of river kayaking made for a well-balanced activity. The lunch was also delicious.

User_qmbn / 40s Posted on 2025-08

The mossy forest and the spectacular view from Taikoiwa. Since we had the entire day to ourselves, we were able to enjoy it at our own pace, which was very satisfying.

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & Snorkeling Tour with Lunch Box & Pick-up Service (No.3)

k3 / 20s Posted on 2025-08

I joined the trekking and snorkeling with my family. I was a beginner in both activities, but the guides explained everything very carefully and clearly, and we were able to enjoy the nature of Yakushima very much. Thank you very much!

Shiratani Unsui Gorge Trekking & SUP Tour (with packed lunch & pick-up) (No.10)

k3 / 20s Posted on 2025-08

I joined the trekking and snorkeling with my family. I was a beginner in both activities, but the guide explained everything very carefully and clearly, and we were able to enjoy the nature of Yakushima to the fullest. Thank you very much!

Mr. Noh / 40s Posted on 2025-08

We only had about 5-6 hours to spend in Yakushima, but we were able to go to the moss forest, which was our goal, and we were able to enjoy our first time in Yakushima thanks to the wonderful guide who took pictures at each point and explained the plants to us. If we have another chance, we would definitely like to go back again.