Guida
The Great Cedar of Shiranuta is a Japanese Cedar designated as a natural monument of Shizuoka Prefecture, located at an altitude of approximately 700m in the Mt. Amagi mountain range, Higashi-Izu. With a height of about 40m, a circumference of 10.5m, and a diameter of 8.55m, this tree stands with immense strength within the rich natural environment of Mt. Amagi. This site is not merely a display of a giant tree; it is part of a highly precious ecosystem that includes the nearby 'Shiranuta Pond.' The area is surrounded by a primeval forest of cedar, fir, and zelkova trees, preserving the unique and untouched scenery of Japan's original landscapes.
The geological structure of this region is characterized by its proximity to the old crater of the Amagi volcano, resulting in a unique terrain shaped by natural forces. The Great Cedar of Shiranuta is historically revered as one of the representative giant trees of the Izu Peninsula, often mentioned alongside the 'Amagi Taro Sugi' and 'Amagi Jiro Sugi.' Additionally, the adjacent Shiranuta Pond is a dammed lake formed by debris flows, which has been a vital element in shaping the local environment since ancient times. Due to this significant historical and geological background, the area is managed as a protected forest for academic study, ensuring its natural state remains preserved.
The greatest highlight is the overwhelming presence of the Great Cedar of Shiranuta itself. Its straight, upward-reaching form stands out even among the surrounding dense forest. Nearby, you will find the Shiranuta Pond, a calm body of water with a depth of about 40cm, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. The area is home to plants such as Japanese maple and Alnus japonica, which offer different colors depending on the season. Furthermore, this area is a treasure trove of biodiversity, providing a rare opportunity to observe various birds, insects, and even rare species like the forest tree frog (Odorrana ?) in their natural habitat.
The vegetation changes dramatically with the seasons. From spring to summer, you can enjoy vibrant fresh greenery and high biological activity around the pond. In autumn, the deciduous trees like Japanese maple turn brilliant colors, creating a stunning landscape. Winter offers a serene, quiet scenery of leafless trees. For the best experience, visit in the morning when sunlight filters through the gaps in the primeval forest, highlighting the textures of the plants and the clarity of the pond. However, please be aware that fog can easily form in this mountainous area due to weather changes.
This area focuses on nature observation. As it is a precious academic-protected forest, there are no high-energy activities; instead, visitors can enjoy 'forest bathing' (shinrin-yoku) in a quiet environment and observing rare flora and fauna. Observing the plants around the pond and the seasonal wildlife is a deeply rewarding experience for nature lovers. Please maintain silence during your visit to respect the natural environment.
The Mt. Amagi area surrounding the Great Cedar of Shiranuta offers many other natural spots. For instance, the nearby Hoso Wetland is also a natural monument, allowing you to plan a route that showcases the best of Shizuoka's natural landscapes. Additionally, the Higashi-Izu area is famous for its many hot spring (onsen) resorts, making it a perfect way to relax in a hot spring after your nature walk.
The Great Cedar of Shiran-uta is located within a national forest, and prior permission is required to enter. Please apply to the Izu Forest Management Bureau in advance. For clothing, we strongly recommend sturdy, non-slip footwear such as trekking shoes, as you may encounter unpaved paths, steep slopes, or damp areas. Additionally, prepare rainwear, warm clothing, and insect repellent to deal with the mountain weather and environment.