An ancient cedar tree on Yakushima Island in southwestern Japan has been knocked down, most likely due to strong winds from Typhoon Shanshan, according to local tour guides. The cedar, known as “Yayoisugi,” stood at a height of 26 meters and had a trunk circumference of approximately 8 meters. It was a prominent attraction at the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine tourist site. The guides discovered the fallen tree on Saturday.
Typhoon Shanshan approached Yakushima Island between August 27th and 29th, bringing wind speeds of up to 168.48 kilometers per hour around 8 p.m. last Wednesday, as reported by the local weather observatory.
Yakushima Island is renowned for its ancient cedars called “Yakusugi,” some of which are over a thousand years old. In recognition of its natural beauty and significance, the island was designated as a World Natural Heritage site by the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1993.
The loss of this iconic cedar tree is undoubtedly significant for both locals and tourists who visit Yakushima Island to admire its natural wonders. However, it serves as a reminder of the power that typhoons can unleash on vulnerable landscapes.
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