Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine

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.

While the original trail was closed post-Typhoon Shan Shan, the detour offered a unique and challenging adventure. The payoff was incredible: the enchanting Kokemusu Forest and the awe-inspiring view from Taiko-iwa.

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.

An incredible experience. This tranquil place is inspirational to walk through and leaves a lasting impression on your mind. This is the place that inspired the film 'Princess Mononoke'. There's so much to see. I saw monkeys on the way in, and the entrance has a beautiful waterfall that's worth the drive for that alone. There's lots of mossy rocks and trees, several Japanese trees whose age dates back to around the years of the Roman Republic, and lots of waterfalls and streams. Some of the paths have steep climbs, and it was physically challenging in parts, though I had no hiking gear bar the boots. Hiking poles would've made the return journey more enjoyable. Recommended times on the map are conservative. I did the longest walk which recommends 4 hrs, though even with many photo breaks and some rest it was still only about 3 hrs or less. Time the course you want to do depending on your fitness level, and climbing confidence. If you want to give yourself time and do multiple trails, go first thing in the morning and pack water and snacks. Though one water bottle is enough as the water from the streams are delicious.