Departure from the hotel. Gradually I started to feel excited, even though I was sleepy. Our guide took us to the destination.

Arrival at Shiratani Hiroba located 620 meters above sea level, the entrance to Shiratani Unsui Kyou (Gorge) and the starting point of the hike.
“Are you Okay? It might be tough if you are not used to hiking. (Smile）.”
What the guide said made me regret my lack of exercise.
Would I be able to get to the destination?
After a short warm-up, we set off!

We keep walking as we listen to the guide telling us about the area. Crystal-clear water flows under Satsuki Suspension Bridge. The name, Unsuikyou which means a gorge of clouds and water, explains the clarity and cool atmosphere in the place.
Moreover, there are many cedars which have funny shapes and names.

You can walk through the root of Kuguri Sugi. This tree took root over a fallen tree. However, the fallen tree withered. This is the way how Kuguri Sugi had shaped. It’s the first time for me to walk through Kuguri Sugi.

After taking a short break at Shiratani Goya (Lodge), we head for “Kokemusu mori (the forest covered with moss)”. I was very impressed by the magnificent and mysterious atmosphere.
Yakushima is known as the island of moss due to its great variety of moss.

Now, we are crossing the final hurdle; the long and steep slope continues for a while. Can I get to the summit!?
When we get through the dense and dark forest, we climb up a steep trail.

After feeling recharged, we began our descent. On the way back, I passed through large layered rocks, a steep gorge, and a fresh stream from Shiratani-gawa (Shiratani river) in the primeval forest. This scenery also rejuvenated me.
The return route felt a bit easier♪ However, it was still hard! More accidents happen due to fatigue, so more attention is required on the return hike, which is a fundamental rule in hiking.

It’s time for our long-awaited lunch at Unsuikyou Entrance. Hunger is the best seasoning. What a delicious lunchbox！

After listening to the guide’s detailed talk, we ride on the kayak downstream from Anbo river. The river flows gently. It’s easy, even for beginners to paddle.

Paddling in the crystal-clear waters of Anbo River is a special experience! I felt at one with nature, listening to the sounds of paddling in the water and the birds singing.

The river becomes narrower, faster, and more dangerous. The beginners need to return downstream. In summertime, you can jump into the river from the rocks on the riverside.