Discover the enchanting forest that inspired one of the world’s most popular anime movies

With its misty forests filled with 1,000-year old Yakusugi cedar trees, moss-covered rocks, and pristine coastline, the remote island of Yakushima has long drawn nature-lovers in search of a travel adventure infused with a certain sense of magic. It’s no surprise to learn that these enchanting landscapes also inspired one of the world’s most popular anime movies, Princess Mononoke, from Hayao Miyazaki’s celebrated Studio Ghibli. One of Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Yakushima’s natural wonders span thundering waterfalls, nesting sea turtles, and lush forested mountains, with microclimates ranging from subtropical to subarctic. This is a place for adventurers and for those who don’t mind putting in the effort – and perhaps getting wet from the frequent rains – to experience something truly exceptional.

One of the biggest rewards for travellers, and reachable only on a four- to five-hour hike, is the chance to see the Jomon Sugi , a majestic cedar that was discovered in 1966, estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,000 years old. The much-loved tree has become a symbol of the importance of protecting the valuable and fragile forest ever since.

Located in the far south of Japan off the island of Kyushu, getting to Yakushima from Tokyo involves a flight to Kagoshima and a connecting flight to Yakushima, or a ferry from Kagoshima Port. This latter option is favourite of many travellers who like to take the time to slow down physically and mentally before embarking on what is set to be a life-changing journey into raw nature.

Head to the cradle of Japanese porcelain in Hizen and explore the fascinating history – and present – of the country’s pottery traditions

Pottery-lovers may be familiar with the names Arita-yaki and Imari-yaki, both of which experienced popularity in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries and influenced local pottery traditions across the continent. Both of these techniques come from the Hizen region of Japan, spanning parts of Nagasaki and Saga prefectures. The discovery of kaolin clay 400 years ago in the town of Arita was the catalyst for Japan’s porcelain boom, and Hizen became the heartland of the industry.

It’s still a centre of production today, its workshops – many of which span generations – producing exquisite porcelain in small towns which are protecting both their craft heritage and the charm of their traditional buildings. 30 ceramic manufacturers still call the once-secretive village of Okawachiyama home as they have for centuries, and in the town of Arita, traditional houses with walls made from reused kiln bricks, packed earth and pottery fragments still stand.

In the town of Ureshino, visitors can try their hand at making their own pottery at the Shida-yaki No Sato Museum, a preserved factory that began operations in 1914 and was converted into a museum in 1997. As well as learning about the history and techniques behind these Shida-yaki wares, workshops invite visitors to make their own pieces on a pottery wheel, which can be fired and shipped to their homes. If you’re looking for souvenirs and gift items, markets pop up around Hizen in spring and autumn, selling pottery, porcelain and ceramics, like bowls, plates and decorative pieces. And every time you use one of them, it will bring back memories of this wonderfully atmospheric part of the country.

Experience all-night celebrations of dancing, drumming and storytelling as Japan’s ancient gods, myths and legends come alive in Miyazaki Prefecture’s Takachiho Evening Kagura

The Takachiho Evening Kagura has been entertaining the residents of Miyazaki Prefecture for 800 years with masked dancers, rhythmic drumming and all-night storytelling. Taking place between November and February each year, the festival is an opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient folk traditions in a spectacular display that has changed little throughout the course of history. This region is also believed to be the cradle of Japanese civilisation, and the 33 dances performed throughout the festival have historical and spiritual significance, representing gods, myths and legends. The main festival takes place on November 22 and 23, but all-night dances are performed at different shrines throughout the area between November and February.

If another all-nighter is not on the cards but you still want to explore more of the region, head to the dramatic Takachiho Gorge, a narrow chasm flanked by sheer walls made of basalt columns, with a 17-metre cascading waterfall pouring into it. You can view the gorge from above by walking along the path which runs along its edge, or rent a rowing boat on the river to see the incredible setting from water level. Either way, it’s a startling and spectacular place, the perfect accompaniment to the drama of the Takachiho Evening Kagura.

A blissful resort set between sea and mountains on Yakushima

With its serene, green location between the sea and mountains on mystical Yakushima, The Sankara Hotel & Spa is a suitably luxurious setting for those who want to embark on island adventures, without sacrificing comfort. Suites and villas are scattered across a wooded hillside, immersed in the greenery that makes this island so special. For the ultimate in luxury, stay in the Sankara Suite with its own outdoor bath and in-suite spa treatment room. The hotel’s infinity pool provides the perfect perch for lounging and taking in breathtaking views over the pristine sea, and in the spa, holistic therapies are inspired by Yakushima’s bountiful nature.

In the two restaurants – Ayana, focusing on European dishes, and Okas, where fine French cuisine is on the menu – ingredients are sourced from local farmers. In spring, menus feature local tankan oranges and wild plants like bracken and bamboo shoots. In summer, the island’s warm climate brings bananas, mangoes, pineapples and dragon fruit. Autumn sees the sweet potato harvest, as well as plentiful spanner crab and spiny lobster. And in winter, the Kuroshio sea current brings rich seafood from the south, resulting in some of the best sashimi of the entire year.

Guests can also know they’re supporting sustainability efforts during their stay. The hotel has created its own “For Yakushima Declaration”, working with local communities on ecological activities, providing financial support for nature conservation, and promoting the consumption of locally produced and sourced ingredients.