What other travelers are saying about Drum rock (Taiko-iwa)
I would say it is definitely worth it! We went with a guide, and although the trail to it is long and your knees will probably feel the strain by the end of your hike(we didn't take walking sticks). It was a very amazing surprise. We went when it was raining 🌧 and it was windy at the top but the view is absolutely amazing when you're there. It was a wow moment, and we saw some sakura trees at the top, so if you go late March, you will probably see a more colorful view. I'm definitely planning to be back, hopefully when it's sunny. Oh, and the rock, yeah, if you bang it with the palm of your hand, it kinda makes a drum sound. Try it if you go. It's a long hike, so if you wanna take your time, I'd probably head out early in the morning. We saw some monkeys on the drive to the trail and, on the trail, saw a deer. Apparently, the locals said only in yakushima do monkeys ride the 🦌 deer.
Well worth the hike. You can see a fare amount of the landscape. Overall the hike rakes about 3.5 hours round trip. The last km is quite steep and may have snow in the winter. You drive to the gorge entrance before starting the hike. Be prepared for slipper and muddy areas if it has rained recently.
Amazing view. Deffenetly recommended if you are in the area. We walked the green path and got to the rocks, the view from there is breathtaking.
On the top of the trail the road is a little tricky, if you don't like technical road consider the shorter path
After difficult climbing you will find this beautiful scenery but better be careful that you might slip around well thats gonna be really dangerous and enjoy the view ,might even have your lunch and return.