What other travelers are saying about Shiratani Unsuikyo
Stunning hiking trail and National Park. As at January 2025, still only a single route available to walk due to trail damage. The 3 hour time frame was accurate for our group at a medium pace and stopping to take photos regularly. The track is lovingly maintained, but is gravel/rocks/river crossings so proper shoes are necessity. Borrow a walking stick at the entry. Even on a day with no rain forecast, it rained and hailed 3 times - wet weather gear essential. For those with limited mobility, the first section of the current route (approx 30mins walking) is a combination of paved path and wooden steps leading to two bridges crossing beautiful waterfalls and cascades. This section alone is worth the trip. Access with a car was very easy.
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.
