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Sacred Sites
Sacred SitesKyushu / Kagoshima

Jomon Sugi (Yakushima)

鹿児島県熊毛郡屋久島町(屋久島山中)View on map

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The Jomon Sugi cedar, estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old, is the oldest and most massive tree on Yakushima—with a trunk circumference of 16.1 meters. The symbol of the UNESCO World Heritage island, it is revered as a living deity drawing pilgrims from around the world.

Sacred Site Info

Type
神木・聖木
Legend
屋久島最大の屋久杉で、幹周16.4メートルを誇ります。推定樹齢については諸説あります。1966年の発見以降、屋久島を代表するシンボルとなりました。
Element
木・時間・生命

History & Origins

Yakushima's primeval forests were inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1993. The Jomon Sugi was discovered in 1966 and has since become the island's greatest attraction. To protect the trail ecosystem, the final viewing section was converted to a raised deck platform.

Highlights

The overwhelming presence of the Jomon Sugi itself, the ancient Yakusugi cedars encountered along the approach, the massive Wilson Stump, and the primeval forest of the Okabu Trail are all extraordinary.

Visitor Guide

A challenging round trip of approximately 10 hours for experienced trekkers. Departure at 4–5 a.m. is essential. A certified guide is strongly recommended. Bring rain gear, a boxed lunch, and plenty of water.

Best Season

March–May and September–November. The rainy season (June) sees heavy rainfall but the moss is exquisitely vibrant.

Attributes

Five Elements
Deity / Principal Image
山の神
Spiritual
再生