Wilson's Stump Travel Guide

Wilson's Stump is a captivating historical site nestled within the ancient forests of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This giant stump is the remains of a Yakusugi cedar, estimated to have been over 3,000 years old with a trunk circumference of 13.8 meters before it was cut down around 400 years ago. The tree was reportedly felled in 1586 on the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, a powerful feudal lord, to construct the Great Buddha Hall of Hokoji Temple in Kyoto.Named after the English botanist Ernest Henry Wilson, who documented it in 1914, the stump is a testament to the island's rich natural history and the impact of human activity. The interior of the stump is surprisingly spacious, measuring about 16 square meters, and can comfortably accommodate several people. A clear spring flows from within, creating a small stream. Looking up from inside, visitors can see a heart-shaped opening to the sky, a popular photo spot.Three younger cedars, believed to be descendants of the original tree, grow near the stump, demonstrating the forest's regenerative power. The site is located along the Okabu Trail, offering a serene walk through Yakushima's lush greenery. Wilson's Stump is more than just a remnant of a tree; it's a symbol of the island's resilience, natural beauty, and a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human impact.