In the heart of Japan, far from the bustling cities and serene temples, lies a hidden world of untamed wilderness. This is the realm of Japan’s jungles, a place where nature reigns supreme and adventure awaits at every turn. Our journey begins in the lush, green forests of Yakushima, a remote island located off the southern coast of Kyushu.

Yakushima is a place of myth and legend, a land where ancient cedar trees tower above the forest floor, their gnarled roots stretching out like the tentacles of some ancient beast. The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, much of which can be found nowhere else on Earth. As we step off the ferry and into the dense jungle, we are immediately struck by the sense of isolation and the raw power of nature that surrounds us.

Our first stop is the Yakusugi Land forest, a protected area where some of the oldest and most majestic cedar trees in the world can be found. The trees here are ancient, some estimated to be over 1,000 years old, their massive trunks twisted and contorted by the elements. As we walk among these giants, we can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.

As we venture deeper into the jungle, the air grows thick and humid, the sounds of the forest growing louder and more insistent. The calls of exotic birds fill the air, their songs echoing through the dense canopy above. We spot a pair of Yakushima’s famous macaque monkeys, their fur a deep, rich brown, as they swing effortlessly from branch to branch.

Our guide, a local expert with a deep knowledge of the island’s flora and fauna, points out a variety of plants and trees, each with its own unique story and history. He tells us of the island’s rich cultural heritage, of the Shinto shrines hidden deep within the jungle, and of the ancient rituals and ceremonies that have been performed here for centuries.

As we continue our journey, we come across a crystal-clear stream, its waters sparkling in the dappled sunlight that filters through the canopy above. Our guide explains that this stream is home to a variety of aquatic life, including the rare and elusive Yakushima salamander. We spend some time by the stream, watching as the water flows over the smooth stones, the sound of its gentle murmur a soothing balm to the soul.

As the day wears on, we make our way to the island’s highest peak, Mount Miyanoura. The hike is challenging, the trail steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. From this vantage point, we can see the entire island spread out before us, a vast expanse of green and blue that stretches out to the horizon.

As the sun begins to set, we make our way back to our base camp, a small clearing deep within the jungle. Here, we set up our tents and prepare a simple meal, the smell of cooking food mingling with the earthy scent of the forest. As night falls, the sounds of the jungle grow louder, the calls of nocturnal animals echoing through the darkness.

The next day, レッドウッド国立公園 we set out to explore the island’s coastline, a rugged and wild stretch of land that is home to a variety of seabirds and marine life. We spot a pod of dolphins playing in the waves, their sleek bodies glinting in the sunlight as they leap and dive through the water.

As we continue our journey, we come across a small, secluded beach, its white sands pristine and untouched. We spend some time here, swimming in the crystal-clear waters and soaking up the sun. The beach is a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of the jungle, a place where we can relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.

Our final stop on the island is the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a stunning gorge that is home to a variety of waterfalls and natural pools. The ravine is a popular spot for hiking and swimming, and we spend the afternoon exploring its many trails and hidden coves. As we make our way back to the ferry, we can’t help but feel a sense of sadness, knowing that our time in this magical place is coming to an end.

But our journey through Japan’s jungles is far from over. Next, we head to the island of Okinawa, a tropical paradise located at the southern tip of the Japanese archipelago. Here, the jungles are lush and verdant, the air thick with the scent of exotic flowers and the calls of tropical birds.

Our first stop is the Yanbaru Forest, a vast expanse of wilderness that is home to a variety of rare and endangered species. We spend the day hiking through the forest, our guide pointing out the many plants and animals that call this place home. We spot a pair of Okinawa woodpeckers, their bright red plumage a stark contrast to the green of the forest, and a family of Okinawa rail, a rare and elusive bird that is found nowhere else on Earth.

As we continue our journey, we come across a small, secluded waterfall, its waters cascading down a rocky outcrop and into a natural pool below. We spend some time here, swimming in the cool, refreshing water and soaking up the sun. The waterfall is a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of the jungle, a place where we can relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.

Our final stop on the island is the Cape Manzamo, a stunning coastal cliff that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The cape is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing, and we spend the afternoon exploring its many trails and hidden coves. As we make our way back to our hotel, we can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and diversity of Japan’s jungles.

As our journey comes to an end, we reflect on the many experiences and adventures we have had, the many people we have met and the many lessons we have learned. Japan’s jungles are a place of mystery and magic, a world of untamed wilderness that is both beautiful and dangerous. But for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path and explore the unknown, the rewards are endless.

From the ancient cedar trees of Yakushima to the tropical forests of Okinawa, Japan’s jungles offer a glimpse into a world that is both ancient and modern, a place where nature and culture intertwine to create a unique and unforgettable experience. And as we say goodbye to this magical place, we know that we will carry the memories and lessons of our journey with us for the rest of our lives.