Shiratani Unsui Gorge, Forested ravine in Yakushima, Japan
Shiratani Unsui Gorge is a forested ravine on the island of Yakushima in southern Japan. Narrow trails follow a deep valley carved by streams, passing moss-covered rocks and ancient cedar trees that have stood for centuries.
The forests of Yakushima were logged during the Edo period, and some of the trails in the gorge follow routes that woodcutters once used. In 1993, the island was listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, which ended logging and protected the old-growth forest.
The forest is widely seen as one of the inspirations behind the animated film Princess Mononoke. Walking through it, visitors often notice how the gnarled roots, hanging ferns, and moss-draped cedar trunks match the look of scenes from that film.
Several trails are available, ranging from a one-hour loop to routes that take half a day or more. Sturdy shoes are a good idea since the paths can become muddy after rain, and the ground is often damp from the forest moisture.
The name 'Unsui' means 'cloud water' in Japanese, and on early mornings the mist can cover the trees so completely that the forest seems to disappear into the sky. The gorge directly inspired the animated film Princess Mononoke, and one trail leads to a small grove that served as a setting for scenes in the movie.
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