Navian / Public domain

Kinsakubaru Virgin Forest

金作原原生林

Kagoshima · Kyushu

Kinsakubaru is a subtropical primeval forest deep in the mountains of Amami Ōshima, dense with giant hego tree ferns, tangled vines and ancient broadleaf trees. It shelters endemic wildlife such as the Amami rabbit and the Ruddy kingfisher. To protect the fragile ecosystem, entry is by certified eco-guide only, with a cap on the number of vehicles allowed in.

Best season: Year-round
Crowd level: Hidden gem
Rating: 4.4· 134 reviews
Nearest station: No rail access — Amami Airport + rental car / certified eco-guide tour from Naze (~1 hr drive); vehicle numbers capped
Phone: 0997-52-1111