Yakushima, Kagoshima
Shirataniunsuikyo trail in Yakushima was one of the most surreal hiking experiences. The trees were so thick little direct sunlight hits the forest floor making the misty forest a haven for thick moss. The islanders believe spirits and giant gods which once roamed the earth still live in these untouched forests.
The densely forested island is home to the ancient Japanese yakusugi trees. One famous tree known as the Jomonsugi is said to be up to 7200 years old.
