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Ōsumi Islands

Japan

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Forest walkway that goes under a giant cedar tree.

Forest walkway that goes under a giant cedar tree.

Overview

The Ōsumi Islands (大隈諸島) comprise the two main islands of Yakushima and Tanegashima and the seldom-visited triumvirate of islands known as Mishima-mura. The all-star attraction in the group is World Heritage–protected Yakushima, known in Japan as a 'power-spot' (パワースポット, paawaa supotto) for its ancient cedar trees. The island, most easily accessed from Kagoshima city, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, enticing large numbers of domestic and international visitors every year.

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  1. 1Savor Uji matcha from the source during a traditional tea ceremony
  2. 2Meander among peaceful bamboo groves and orange-hued torrii shrines in Kyoto
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