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Yakushima, an island is the inspiration for the setting of the movie “Princess Mononoke”, one of the best known works of studio Ghibli. The island, designated as the World Heritage site is abundant with untarnished natural landscape. The island is popular as a 'power spot' believed to emit strong ethereal powers. Some of the charms offered by the island are;
Jomon-sugi
Photo:http://www2u.biglobe.ne.jp
Jomon-sugi, an old growth cryptomeria tree, tops the list of must-watch locations on Yakushima Island. The shortest access route to this renowned tree is Arakawa trail with a round trip of about 10 hours. The 10 long hours is made worthwhile by exquisite scenes. Reaching Jomon-sugi is said to bring tears of joy states a common word-of-mouth.
Route with splendid view – Shirotani Unsuikyo
Photo:http://sunshinetour.co.jp
Shirotani Unsuikyo is 'THE' area that inspired the forest depicted in the movie Princess Mononoke. The river flowing from the moss-covered rocks is stupendous.
Taikoiwa Rock
Photo:http://biyakublog.blogspot.jp
The panoramic-view of the forest in Yakushima from Taikoiwa Rock is amazing. One can have an extraordinary lunch here!
Kubiore Saba (Broken-necked Mackerel)
Photo:http://find-travel.jp
Kubiore Saba is a must-eat once you are in Yakushima Island. The dish is prepared after draining the blood of mackerel as soon as they are caught from the sea surrounding Yakushima Island. Soon after the necl of the mackerel is broken to retain freshness. The flesh of Kubiore Saba is firm and chewy. The sashimi prepared will be retained by your taste-buds long after you have returned from the island.
Kame-no-te (Japanese goose barnacle)
Photo:http://find-travel.jp
Their shapes may be surprising for some. But it is a type of shellfish resembling the hands (forelimbs) of a turtle. Kame-no-te can be eaten boiled or can be used as the base of the broth for soup. The flavor of this strange shellfish resembles rich shrimp and you will get hooked to it once you have tasted it.
Nagata Inaka-hama Beach
Photo:http://travel.rakuten.co.jp
Nagata Inaka-hama Beach is one of most beautiful beaches in Yakushima Island. The beach is home to sea turtles and is famous as the biggest breeding ground for sea turtles. You may be able to witness the real-time breeding of sea turtles.
Kigen-sugi
Photo:http://livedoor.blogimg.jp
This Yaku-sugi said to be 3,000 years old and is visible from the road-side. It is the one of the oldest existing Yaku-sugi, at a 20-minute drive from Yaku-sugi Land.
Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen
Photo:http://yakushimapain.up.n.seesaa.net
A secret Onsen of hot spring, where the bathtubs appear from the sea especially, for about 2 hours, on and after a low tide. The vast expanse of sea is visible in front of you, making the Onsen unique in comparison to ordinary outdoor baths. Beware since, this one is a Co-ed Onsen.
Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima
Photo:http://www.beautynewstokyo.jp
“Sankara Hotel & Spa, Yakushima” is an auberge-style resort hotel on Yakushima Island. It is recommended to stay at this resort hotel having tropical atmosphere in abundance to pamper you after a close excursion with Mother Nature. This being the only resort hotel on the island will provide you with an invaluable experience for a lifetime.
Yokko-keikoku Valley
Photo:http://nobusuke-ohki.sakura.ne.jp
At Yokko-keikoku Valley, you can enjoy outdoor activities including shower climbing and canyoning in the clear emerald waters of the river. Enjoy the thrilling natural experience along the beautiful river flowing through the island also designated as a World Heritage site.
Visit Yakushima Island and experience a memorable encounter with Nature, at its best!
