Jōmon Sugi is an ancient cedar tree located on the north face of Mount Miyanoura on Yakushima Island in Japan. Believed to be one of the oldest living trees on Earth, Jōmon Sugi is estimated to be between 2,170 and 7,200 years old. This specimen is a Cryptomeria japonica, commonly known as Japanese cedar and stands as a testament to the island‘s rich biodiversity and cultural history.
The tree‘s name is derived from the Jōmon period, an era in Japanese prehistory that stretched from around 14,000 to 300 BC. This choice of name symbolizes the incredible amount of time the tree has lived through. Since its discovery in 1968, Jōmon Sugi has become a symbol of conservation and reverence for nature, attracting tourists, explorers and nature lovers alike to experience its majestic presence. Access to Jōmon Sugi involves a challenging 10 hour hike through the lush forests of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse flora and fauna. High levels of rainfall create a humid and misty environment that has contributed to the preservation of the tree and its surrounding ecosystem. Visitors must navigate dense vegetation and steep terrain to reach Jōmon Sugi, adding to the sense of awe and adventure associated with it.
Jōmon Sugi serves as a living connection to Japan‘s ancient past, providing insight into the island‘s environmental history and the cultural significance of venerating nature. Its preservation has become a priority, highlighting the importance of safeguarding such ecological treasures for future generations to appreciate and study.