Typhoon No. 10's Scars on Yakushima: Impact on World Heritage Nature and Tourism, and Hope for the Future

Typhoon No. 10, which struck Yakushima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture at the end of August 2024, caused significant damage to the nature of this island, which is also registered as a World Natural Heritage site. The damage to Yakushima cedar trees, including the collapse of the "Yayoi sugi" (弥生杉), estimated to be 3,000 years old, from its base, is particularly severe; these trees are considered symbolic of Yakushima Island.

According to reports from FNN Prime Online, popular tourist spots such as Shiratani Unsuikyo have been affected by rockfalls and landslides, disrupting hiking trails and forcing the closure of some courses. Michio Hidaka, the office manager of the Yakushima Recreation Forest Conservation and Management Council, expressed concern about the impact on tourism, stating, "The collapse of the Yayoi sugi is extremely sad. I think the number of tourists will decrease considerably."

However, there are also positive developments. On Yakushima guide Gardening❗'s blog, as of September 2nd, while Jomon sugi hiking is suspended, it's reported that some hiking courses, such as Yakusugi Land and Taichudake mountain climbing, are still accessible by circumventing fallen trees. Furthermore, the blog of the Sangaku Taro shop reported on September 6th that some tours, including Jomon sugi hiking, canoeing, and canyoning, are still operational.

The official website of the Yakushima Tourist Association actively promotes tourism by introducing the natural attractions, diverse activities, and access information of Yakushima. Additionally, the "People, Nature, and World Natural Heritage Yakushima" website regularly updates information on traffic restrictions on town roads and forest roads, providing information to tourists and islanders.

Although the damage caused by Typhoon No. 10 is extensive, Yakushima's nature is considered strong and resilient. The people of Yakushima are working hard on restoration work and information dissemination to ensure tourists can safely experience the island's attractions while coexisting with nature.

A New Perspective: Coexisting with the Threats of Nature

This typhoon damage has highlighted the vulnerability of Yakushima's nature, as well as the importance of coexisting with the threats of nature. It has been suggested that the impact of global warming may lead to more powerful typhoons in the future.

As a World Natural Heritage site, Yakushima needs to protect its precious natural environment while achieving sustainable tourism. The following initiatives are therefore crucial.

Strengthening Disaster Prevention Measures

It is necessary to strengthen preparedness for natural disasters such as typhoons and heavy rain through measures like creating hazard maps, improving evacuation routes, and enhancing disaster education.

Conservation of the Natural Environment

Efforts to protect and regenerate precious natural assets such as Yakushima cedar trees must be intensified. Reforestation activities and measures against invasive species are important.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

It is crucial to promote ecotourism that allows tourists to experience the charm of Yakushima while minimizing the burden on the natural environment.

Collaboration with Local Residents

Tourists and local residents need to work together to protect the natural environment and revitalize the local economy.

It is hoped that Yakushima will overcome the damage from Typhoon No. 10 and develop into an even more attractive tourist destination by coexisting with the threats of nature.