Ancient Forests of Yakushima Island – The Inspiration Behind “Princess Mononoke” and the Last of Their Kind
Ancient Forest
Just looking at photos of Japan's Yakushima Island makes one whisper to themselves, "It can't be possible for this to be a real place." Being there in person is a mystical experience. It's hard to find such forests anywhere else in the world as those preserved on the absolutely majestic Yakushima.
It was here, in the deep cedar forests shrouded in eternal mist and covered in moss, that the inspiration for "Princess Mononoke" – one of the most important animations by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli – was born. Do you remember the somewhat clumsy Ashitaka (compared to San), who, while following her, makes his way through the primeval, dark forest, surrounded by trees that truly seem to remember the beginning of the world? Every frame here is inspired by a real forest that still exists in our times – the unique, ancient forest of Yakushima Island.
On Yakushima, there is a tree that seems to be the guardian of time – Jōmon Sugi, a cedar reaching back thousands of years. It's not just a tree; it's a living witness to history, surviving unchanged as countries and empires rose and fell. Standing before Jōmon Sugi, you can feel the ground beneath your feet pulsate with the life of ancient nature, as if it whispers stories of old times, lost worlds, and the people who once lived here. This place is not just an ordinary travel destination – it's a gateway to a world where time flows differently. Or perhaps a reminder of what we have lost over the millennia with the development of civilization.
Let's explore how a place like Yakushima still exists today.
Where is Yakushima?
Yakushima is a mountainous island located at the southern tip of Japan, belonging to Kagoshima Prefecture. It lies approximately 135 kilometers south of Kagoshima City, at the very southern end of the Ōsumi archipelago. Yakushima covers an area of about 504.88 km², and its landscape is characterized by dramatic elevation changes, ranging from sea level to the highest peak, Miyanouradake, which rises 1,935 meters above sea level. The island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, giving it a unique climate and distinctive natural conditions.
There are several ways to reach Yakushima. The most popular mode of transport is by ferry, with regular services running from Kagoshima Port to the island's main harbors: Miyanoura and Anbo. Travelers can choose between high-speed ferries, which take about two and a half hours, and slower, but cheaper, car ferries, which reach the island after about four hours. Alternatively, Yakushima can be reached by air, with regional flights landing at Yakushima Airport, located in the center of the island. Direct flights are available from Kagoshima, Fukuoka, and Osaka, with flight times ranging from 40 minutes to an hour.
What Does the Name "Yakushima" Mean?
The name "Yakushima" (屋久島) can be interpreted from the meanings of the kanji used. The first character, 屋 (ya), means "house" or "building," symbolizing solidity and stability, and may also refer to the sense of shelter the island provides to its residents and visitors. The second character, 久 (ku), translates to "long time" or "eternity," alluding to the ancient cedar forests that have covered the island for millennia and the longevity attributed to its natural resources. The final character, 島 (shima), simply means "island."
Thus, we can understand the name "Yakushima" as "the ancient island – a sanctuary."
The Appearance of the Island
Geography of Yakushima
Yakushima is an island with highly varied and rugged terrain, which is one of its most defining features. The island is almost circular, covering an area of 505 km². The central part of Yakushima is dominated by mountains, the highest being Miyanouradake (1,935 meters above sea level) and Nagatadake (1,886 meters above sea level). These impressive peaks are surrounded by dense, ancient cedar forests that cover much of the island and are home to many trees that are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old.
The island is also famous for its numerous rivers and waterfalls, a result of the abundant rainfall – Yakushima is one of the wettest places in Japan, with an annual precipitation ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 mm. Among the most famous waterfalls on the island are Ooko-no-taki and Senpiro-no-taki, both impressive in height and natural surroundings. Yakushima's climate is subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters, which supports lush vegetation. The island is home to many endemic species of plants and animals, including yakusugi cedars, yakushika deer, and Yakushima macaques, all of which live in the island's pristine forests.
History of Yakushima
The history of settlement on Yakushima dates back to prehistoric times when the island was inhabited during the Jōmon period (14,000–300 B.C.). The oldest traces of human presence on the island are linked to the Jōmon culture, whose influence can be seen in local artifacts and traditions. The first written mentions of Yakushima come from documents of the Chinese Sui dynasty from the 6th century, describing it as part of the so-called "Country of Liukiu." These documents noted that the people living on the island were small but fierce, and their language was incomprehensible to the Chinese.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), Yakushima was part of Ōsumi Province and was ruled by the Shimazu clan of Satsuma. The island served as a source of valuable cedar wood, which was exploited for construction purposes in Japan. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Yakushima, like the rest of Japan, underwent modernization, and its forests were placed under protection. In 1993, Yakushima was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, highlighting its unique natural and cultural significance. Today, Yakushima is a symbol of wild and ancient nature, and its extraordinary environment attracts tourists from all over the world.
What Makes Yakushima So Special?
Yakushima was formed by the uplifting of a granite mass, which distinguishes it from many other Japanese islands that have volcanic origins. As a result, Yakushima is primarily composed of granite, and the lack of volcanic activity gives it a stable and enduring character. The granite foundation of the island is not only a testament to its geological past but also shapes the present landscape, creating steep slopes, scenic gorges, and towering mountain peaks that dominate the island. Importantly, due to the complete lack of volcanic activity, for hundreds and thousands of years, there has been no force to destroy (or "reset") the island's vegetation. Hence, we can find such ancient formations here.
Yakushima is a true natural treasure, distinguished by its unique ecosystem. The island is known for its abundant rainfall, which is an inseparable part of its environment. It is even said that it rains "35 days a month" on Yakushima. This constant water cycle means that the entire island is well-watered, promoting the lush growth of vegetation. The high peaks of Yakushima trap moist air masses from the warm Kuroshio Current, causing intense rainfall that feeds the numerous rivers and waterfalls, and creates ideal conditions for the growth of ancient forests.
The cedar forest that covers much of the island is home to the legendary yakusugi cedars, some of which are thousands of years old. Yakushima's flora also includes many endemic species of plants that are found nowhere else in the world. The abundance of water and specific climate also support a diverse fauna, including unique species of deer and macaques. Yakushima, with its mystical forests, extraordinary trees, and unique ecosystem, is a place that captivates with its natural harmony and stands as living proof of the power of nature.
Yakushima – The Island of Ancient Cedar Forests – Let's Take a Closer Look
Yakushima is an island full of amazing places that offer both spiritual and natural experiences. It's impossible to name all of these magical places, many of which don't even have names, but we can highlight the most famous ones.
縄文杉 - Jōmon Sugi – The Cedar from the Jōmon Period
Jōmon Sugi is the oldest tree in Japan, estimated to be between 6,000 and 7,000 years old (to clarify, there is a dispute among scientists – different researchers estimate the tree's age differently, with estimates ranging from 2,170 to 7,200 years, and everything in between). This massive cedar tree, located deep in the mountainous forests of Yakushima, is a symbol of nature's resilience. Its enormous trunk, with a diameter of 5 meters, and its age make Jōmon Sugi not only a botanical wonder but also an object of spiritual worship. Locals and tourists alike treat it as a sacred site, where one can feel a connection to history and nature.
白谷雲水峡 - Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine – “The Ravine of the White Valley of Clouds and Water”
Shiratani Unsuikyo is a picturesque ravine that is a true paradise for nature lovers. Dense, evergreen forests, moss-covered boulders, and crystal-clear streams create a fairy-tale landscape. It was these forests that inspired Hayao Miyazaki during the creation of the film "Princess Mononoke." Walking through the ravine, one feels as if they have been transported to a world where time stopped centuries ago and nature has preserved its pristine purity.
千尋の滝, 大川の滝 - The Waterfalls Senpiro-no-taki and Ooko-no-taki
Yakushima is home to many spectacular waterfalls, the most famous of which are Senpiro-no-taki and Ooko-no-taki. Senpiro-no-taki is an impressive waterfall with a height of 60 meters, cascading down a steep granite slope, surrounded by dense forest. Ooko-no-taki, the largest waterfall on the island, stands at 88 meters and is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Both waterfalls offer stunning views and are ideal places for a moment of reflection on the power of nature.
永田いなか浜 - Nagata Inaka-hama Beach
Nagata Inaka-hama is one of the most beautiful beaches on Yakushima, also known as one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles. Every year, from May to July, turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand, making this beach a unique place for nature lovers. People who have witnessed this phenomenon describe it as absolutely unforgettable for life.
平内海中温泉, 湯泊温泉 - Hirauchi Kaichu and Yudomari Onsen
Yakushima also offers unique hot spring experiences. These natural onsens are located right on the ocean's edge, allowing for a relaxing bath with views of the waves crashing against the rocks. Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is particularly remarkable as it can only be accessed for a few hours each day when the tide reveals natural pools (more about the onsen culture can be read here: Onsen).
Active Recreation
Yakushima is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The island offers many trekking routes that lead through ancient forests, along rivers, and to the tops of mountains like Miyanouradake. In addition to trekking, Yakushima is ideal for kayaking, diving, and snorkeling, especially in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. For those seeking greater challenges, mountain climbing on the island's steep slopes provides incredible views and a true adventure.
We’ve Seen This Forest on Screen
Yakushima in "Princess Mononoke"
Yakushima was the primary inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki in shaping the visual aesthetics of the film "Princess Mononoke." The director, known for his love of nature and advocacy for its protection, found in Yakushima the perfect backdrop for a mythical world full of spirits, gods, and ancient creatures. The forests of the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, with their ever-green trees covered in thick layers of moss, directly inspired the forest through which Ashitaka journeys.
This ravine, full of streams, giant tree roots, and mysterious mists, was faithfully recreated in the film, capturing the mystical atmosphere of the island. The scenes depicting the forest in "Princess Mononoke" present Yakushima as a place where nature is both beautiful and formidable, with its power and antiquity omnipresent. Admiring nature here becomes a mystical experience.
Battles in Tekken (Yoshimitsu Stage) in the Forests of Yakushima
Yakushima also appears in popular series like "Tekken," where the island is the place of origin for characters Jun and Jin Kazama. In the game's mythology, Yakushima is depicted as a peaceful, secluded place where Jun Kazama raised Jin, away from the chaos of the world and the conflicts related to the Mishima family. The island, with its natural harmony and wild nature, also symbolizes the spiritual peace that Jun tried to impart to Jin.
In "Tekken 8," Yakushima appears as a playable location, offering players the opportunity to fight against the picturesque landscapes of the island. The scenery inspired by Yakushima includes dense forests, majestic waterfalls, and tranquil beaches that capture the essence of the real place. This not only increases Yakushima's narrative significance but also makes it an important visual and atmospheric element in the game world.
In "Tekken 5," one of the stages where battles can take place is inspired by Yakushima, and it is a stage associated with the character Yoshimitsu. This stage is named "Yoshimitsu's Temple" and is set in a dense, mystical forest reminiscent of the ancient forests of Yakushima.
The scenery of this stage includes huge, ancient trees surrounded by mist and covered in moss, echoing the real cedar forests of Yakushima, such as the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine. The atmosphere of the stage is imbued with spirituality and mystery, perfectly capturing the mystical nature of Yakushima and fitting Yoshimitsu’s character, who is portrayed as a warrior with deep connections to nature and traditions.
Yakushima in Other Works of Pop Culture
In the game "Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater," the forests of Yakushima served as a model for the fictional Dremuchij forest, where part of the action takes place. The creators of the game drew from the island's rich flora to create dense, impenetrable forests full of mysteries and dangers that the player must overcome.
The unique atmosphere of Yakushima has also inspired literary and film creators. In David Mitchell's novel "number9dream," Yakushima plays an important role as the place of origin for the main character, with its landscapes and mystical aura permeating the narrative. The island also appears in the Japanese film "Rebirth of Mothra," where its eternal forests and waterfalls provide the perfect backdrop for mythological events.
In the game "Persona 3," Yakushima plays a significant role as a place the characters visit during their summer vacation. The island is depicted as a peaceful, idyllic place full of natural beauty, which contrasts with the urban environment where most of the game takes place. On Yakushima, the team can relax and momentarily forget the hardships of fighting shadows.
The scenery on Yakushima featured in the game is inspired by the island's real landscapes – from dense, green forests to picturesque beaches and crystal-clear ocean waters. The island is also where several important plotlines develop, deepening the relationships between the characters.
In many anime, you can also see this island, for example, in "Erased" (Boku dake ga Inai Machi): In one scene, the main character, Satoru, travels to Yakushima, where he spends time in a secluded place, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The island is depicted as a peaceful place full of greenery and silence, helping the character find peace and understanding in difficult moments of his life. Yakushima in "Erased" symbolizes an escape from everyday life and the possibility of contemplation in the natural surroundings.
People of Yakushima
Matsuri
Yakushima is not only a place of extraordinary nature but also a rich cultural tradition that has survived through the centuries. One of the most important events on the island is the Yakushima Goshinzan Festival, held on the banks of the Miyanoura River.
This festival is closely linked to the particular aspects of local religion, and its main purpose is to honor the mountain gods, who have always been considered the guardians of the island. During the ceremony, participants are washed with holy water, symbolizing the cleansing of the body and spirit, and they also pray for the health and safety of their families. During the festival, a large fire is lit to attract the mountain gods and pay them homage through traditional dances and rituals. This festival not only strengthens the bond between the island's inhabitants but also reminds them of their deep connection to nature and the spirits inhabiting the island.
Cuisine and Local Specialties
Yakushima is also famous for its unique cuisine, which, like the island itself, differs significantly from what is considered standard on the rest of Japan's islands.
One of the most well-known local delicacies is tobiuo – flying fish, which are caught in large quantities in the surrounding waters. Tobiuo is served in many ways, from sashimi to kara-age (deep-fried) to tsuke-age – deep-fried fish patties.
Another unique product of Yakushima is shōchū, a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink distilled from various ingredients such as rice, barley, sweet potatoes, or sugarcane. On the island, you can try the particularly popular brand of shōchū called Mitake, which is available in various strengths, from 25% to 39% alcohol.
In addition to fish and shōchū, Yakushima also offers a variety of citrus fruits, such as ponkan and tankan, which are used to make fresh juices, as well as local tea and beer that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the island's cuisine.
What is the Future for Yakushima?
Yakushima is a place that combines extraordinary nature, deep history, and unique cultural heritage. Its mystical forests, ancient trees, picturesque waterfalls, and rich fauna make the island one of Japan's most valuable natural treasures. However, like any such place, Yakushima faces challenges related to tourism pressure and environmental changes. The increasing number of visitors, while beneficial to the local economy, also poses a threat to the island's delicate ecosystems, which may not withstand excessive exploitation.
In the face of these challenges, it is crucial that the future of Yakushima is shaped sustainably. Local authorities and environmental organizations are already taking steps to minimize the impact of tourism on the island's natural resources. Educational programs are being implemented to raise awareness among tourists and residents about the need to protect this unique environment. In the future, it will also be important to monitor the effects of climate change, which may impact the island's flora, fauna, and water management.
One concrete action that can be taken is to introduce more advanced technologies for monitoring the state of the natural environment and to develop initiatives related to reforestation and the protection of existing cedar forests. Local communities, which have lived in harmony with nature for centuries, can play a key role in these efforts by sharing their knowledge and traditions of sustainable resource management.
If these steps are taken with appropriate determination, Yakushima could become a model for other regions also facing challenges related to environmental protection. However, without decisive action, there is a risk that the island may lose some of its unique character, which would have irreversible consequences not only for its inhabitants but for all of humanity – there are fewer and fewer places like Yakushima in the world.
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未開 ソビエライ
An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)
Personal motto:
"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)
Mike Soray
(aka Michał Sobieraj)
未開 ソビエライ
An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)
Personal motto:
"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)
Mike Soray
(aka Michał Sobieraj)
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