Yakushima is a subtropical island off the southern coast of Kyushu, famous for its ancient cedar forests and moss-covered landscapes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as the inspiration for the animated film Princess Mononoke. Some of the island's cedar trees, known as yakusugi, are thousands of years old, with the most famous being the Jomon Sugi, estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,000 years old. The island features rugged mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including unique species of deer and monkeys. Hiking through its mist-shrouded forests offers a mystical experience of untouched nature. Yakushima is a paradise for trekkers and those looking to immerse themselves in deep wilderness.
Location: Kagoshima, Japan
Coordinates: 30.3445, 130.5126
Learn more: Wikipedia