Daio Sugi: The Great King Cedar
Witness the grandeur of Daio Sugi, an ancient cedar on Yakushima Island, offering an up-close encounter with nature's giants.
Daio Sugi, a majestic Yakusugi cedar, stands as a testament to the ancient forests of Yakushima Island. Estimated to be over 3,000 years old, this giant, reaching a height of 24.7 meters with a trunk circumference of 11.1 meters, earns its title as the 'Great King'. Before the discovery of the monumental Jomon Sugi, Daio Sugi was considered the largest of its kind on the island. Though now showing its age with visible hollows, Daio Sugi provides visitors with a unique opportunity for an intimate viewing experience. Unlike Jomon Sugi, which is viewed from an observation deck, you can approach Daio Sugi and marvel at its size and presence up close. Located along the Okabu Trail, near Jomon Sugi, Daio Sugi is accessible via an extension of the Arakawa Trail. The journey to Daio Sugi takes you through Yakushima's stunning natural surroundings, where you might encounter local wildlife like Yaku monkeys and deer. The trek itself is an experience, immersing you in the serene atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trek to Daio Sugi, as the trails can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring water and snacks for the hike, as it can take several hours to reach Daio Sugi.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions on Yakushima can change rapidly.
- Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
- Be aware that from March to November, private cars are restricted from the Arakawa trailhead; use the shuttle bus from the Yakusugi Museum.
A brief summary to Daio Sugi
- Miyanoura, Yakushima, Miyanoura, Kumage District, Kagoshima, 891-4205, JP
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Daio Sugi, begin by taking a bus to the Yakusugi Museum from either Miyanoura or Anbo. From March to November, take the shuttle bus from Yakusugi Museum to the Arakawa Trailhead. From the Arakawa Trailhead, it's approximately a 4-5 hour hike to Daio Sugi along the Okabu Trail. Bus fares to the Yakusugi Museum range from ¥500-¥1000 depending on the origin. A one-day bus pass is available for ¥2,000. The shuttle bus from the Yakusugi Museum to Arakawa Trailhead costs ¥870 one way.
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Walking
From the Arakawa Trailhead (accessible by shuttle bus from Yakusugi Museum during peak season), follow the well-marked Okabu Trail for approximately 4-5 hours. The trail passes Wilson’s Stump and continues to Daio Sugi. Be prepared for a moderately challenging hike with some elevation gain. Note: There are no additional costs for walking beyond the shuttle bus fare (¥870 one way from Yakusugi Museum to Arakawa Trailhead, operating from March to November).
