What other travelers are saying about Shiratani Unsuikyo
A beautiful piece of nature not far from the harbor town. There are several routes, some easy and well maintained, others more wild and challenging. You can walk all three or combine them as you like. I spent 5 hours here and still didn't see everything.
There are no vending machines and toilets only at the entrance. There is a hut halfway up the mountain with drinkable water, but be sure to bring enough supplies.
Only a single trail course is available as of October 2024 due to heavy rain, and lots of people were there for hiking including large groups.
ETA of a round trip to Taiko Iwa is about 3 hours if you are used to walking but depends on how you walk. Taking lots of pictures with taking time for posing would need more time.
Since the trail is well-maintained, easy to trace the course and there are lots of people, you wouldn't need to hire a guide(for distress prevention), and wouldn't need heavy-duty gear.
Easier hiking trails than some of the higher / full day experiences. Different length courses depending on your ability. Facilities available and a fee to enter.
We chose the green route to walk into the mossy 🌳 forest, blessing us with a fine day in the morning hike. Surroundings are stunning giant cedars and mossy plants on the trees and stones. The formed wooden stairs and the stone steps are well maintained, not a difficult climb all the way. We haven’t climb up to the Taiko Rock due to the knee pain. Indeed, it is a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Magical forest it took me around 5hrs, walking slowly taking it all in. It was lightly raining throughout, at 25+ degrees it added to the experience for me. Absolutely beautiful.
I chose to do the green route, then doing the little loop red route at the end. The orange was closed off due to the weather. I get the impression most people do the green route.
Notes about travel, I took the local bus from Miyanoura harbor to Shiratani Unsuikyo 500+ YEN, be careful they run once every 2hrs and finish after 4/5pm so plan ahead.
