Ryujin Sugi, Yakushima Travel Guide

4.7 (14)

Discover Yakushima's hidden gem: Hike through ancient forests to the majestic Ryujin Sugi, the Dragon God Cedar.

Hike to Ryujin Sugi, a majestic 2,000-year-old cedar on Yakushima Island, offering a tranquil alternative to the popular Jomon Sugi. This challenging trail rewards experienced hikers with stunning forest scenery and a sense of serene isolation.

A brief summary to Ryujin Sugi

Miyanoura, Yakushima, Miyanoura, Kumage District, Kagoshima, 891-4205, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ryujin Sugi.

This is a challenging 13km hike, allow 8-9 hours for the round trip.
Wear appropriate hiking boots and clothing, and carry plenty of water and snacks.
Be prepared for stream crossings; the water level can rise in bad weather.
Consider calling ahead to reserve a spot at Yu no Kono Yu, a small public bath with heated spring water near the trailhead.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Senpiro Falls

Yokogawa Valley

Janokuchi Falls

Ryujin Falls

辻の岩屋

Explore Ryujin Sugi on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ryujin Sugi, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Miyanoura Port, drive towards the Yakusugi Museum. Continue past the museum towards the Comprehensive Nature Park (総合自然公園). From the parking lot, you can either drive 3.3km up the gravel road (if you're brave) or continue 1km by foot up the logging road to reach the official trailhead. Parking is free at the Nature Park.
Bus

From Miyanoura or Anbo, take a bus towards the Yakusugi Museum. From the museum, it's a 1km walk to the trailhead. Bus fares vary depending on the distance, check the local bus timetable for accurate pricing. Be aware that buses are infrequent, especially to the interior.

Discover more about Ryujin Sugi

Ryujin Sugi, or Dragon God Cedar, is a magnificent Yakusugi cedar located on Yakushima Island. Estimated to be around 2,000 years old, with a circumference of 11 meters, this ancient tree offers a rewarding destination for experienced hikers seeking a less crowded alternative to the famous Jomon Sugi.The hike to Ryujin Sugi takes you through a diverse landscape, from replanted cryptomeria forests to tranquil, old-growth woods. The trail follows a historic, moss-covered stone path, with a section along abandoned train tracks, climbing from 200 to 1260 meters in elevation. Along the way, you'll encounter Ryujin Sugi's companions: Fujin Sugi (Wind God) and Raijin Sugi (Thunder God).Unlike the well-trodden path to Jomon Sugi, the trail to Ryujin Sugi offers a sense of solitude and a more intimate connection with nature. The reward is a close encounter with the Dragon God Cedar, standing powerfully amidst the Yakushima forest.