雷神杉 Travel Guide

Raishin Sugi, or the Thunder God Cedar, is one of the notable Yakusugi (ancient cedar) trees found on the mystical island of Yakushima. This island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located off the southern coast of Kyushu, Japan, and is renowned for its old-growth cedar forests. Yakusugi are cedar trees over 1,000 years old, and Raishin Sugi is estimated to be around 2,000 years old.The name Raishin Sugi, meaning Thunder God Cedar, possibly derives from its straight form, like a thunderbolt. It is one of a trio of cedars, along with Ryujin Sugi (Dragon God Cedar) and Fujin Sugi (Wind God Cedar), found along the Yakusugi Pilgrimage Route. These trees are not as easily accessible as the famous Jomon Sugi, offering a more secluded and challenging hiking experience.The tree can be found along the old Yaku Sanndo pilgrimage route. The trail to Raishin Sugi involves a steep climb with an elevation change of 1,100 meters, making it suitable for physically fit and experienced hikers. The surrounding forest is known for its exceptional beauty, with moss-covered stones and lush greenery.