Yakushima is a subtropical island and national park, with about 20 % of it designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The interior is covered in dense, mossy forest and ancient cedar trees, known locally as “yakusugi.” Many of these cedars are over 1,000 years old.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity create a lush ecosystem where hundreds of moss varieties thrive, giving forest floors and tree trunks a rich carpet of green that almost seems magical.
Trails & Spots Ideal for a Warm Beverage with a View
f you head to Yakushima, these are some of the top trails and sites where the forest + a warm drink combo shines. This ravine is world‑renowned for its enchanting moss‑covered forest — part of what inspired the forest in the film Princess Mononoke. Trails vary in duration, from short strolls to longer hikes, giving you flexibility depending on how much time or energy you have. Imagine finishing a mossy forest loop and then pulling out a thermos of hot tea or cocoa for a quiet moment surrounded by ancient cedars and soft green carpet — pure magic.
Yakusugi Land spans a huge forest area at 1,000–1,300 m altitude, filled with ancient cedar trees, moss, ferns, and clear streams.
There are multiple hiking courses — from a gentle 30‑minute boardwalk to a 210‑minute trek — so it’s accessible even if you don’t want a strenuous hike
Jōmon Sugi Trail (for experienced hikers)
Jōmon Sugi, one of the oldest and largest cryptomeria trees in the world, is estimated to be anywhere from 2,000 to 7,200 years old, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Reaching this ancient giant is no small feat, the round trip from the Arakawa trailhead takes roughly 10 to 11 hours on foot, demanding stamina and careful planning.
Yet, the effort is richly rewarded: pausing for your first warm drink amidst the mossy forest, surrounded by millennia-old cedars, transforms the hike into a deeply memorable and almost spiritual experience, where nature’s timeless beauty and the simple pleasure of a hot beverage combine perfectly.
What Warm Drinks to Pack
Matcha or Green Tea: Light, quick to prepare, and perfect if you want something energizing and easy to carry.
Coffee (thermos or portable brew): Great after a challenging hike like Jōmon Sugi — gives warmth and a hit of energy.
Herbal Tea / Hot Cocoa: Lovely for a tranquil break in mossy forests or after a cooler-weather hike.
Because Yakushima is humid and forest‑dense, a thermos will keep drinks warm longer — which is ideal if you want to relax and take in the view without rushing. The moss, ancient trees and forest moisture add to the atmosphere, making a simple hot drink feel extraordinary.
Smooth & Respectful Yakushima Experience
Choose your trail wisely: If you want a relaxed hike + a drink, go for Shiratani Unsuikyo or Yakusugi Land. For a big adventure (and a serious reward), consider Jōmon Sugi — but only if you’re prepared. Wear proper footwear: Trails beyond the easy boardwalks can be rough — hiking boots recommended over sandals or casual shoes.
Leave no trace: Bring reusable cup or thermos, avoid litter — these forests are ancient, precious and fragile. Check weather & rainfall: Yakushima gets a lot of rain and high humidity, which helps the moss, but can make trails slippery and unpredictable.