Family Adventure in the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

First Impressions of a Forest Isle

After a long journey from Munich, via Fukuoka, we finally arrived in Yakushima! The air here is different – cleaner, crisper, and carrying the scent of ancient trees and the sea. It's a world away from the familiar scents of my Munich neighborhood, and I am excited to immerse myself and my family in this unique environment. Today was all about setting the stage for our adventure, a gentle introduction to the island's rich natural and cultural tapestry.

Our day began, as most travel days do, with a hearty breakfast. We grabbed a quick bite at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It wasn't anything fancy, but it was fuel for the day ahead. Lila, ever the curious one, was already peppering us with questions about the island, the trees, and especially the monkeys she’s heard so much about. Hans-Peter, as always, was meticulously checking our itinerary, ensuring we didn't miss a beat.

Nature's beauty is a gift, and it is our duty to protect and preserve it for future generations.

Our first official stop was the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. This place is a treasure trove of information! The center beautifully illustrates the island's ecological significance, from its unique flora and fauna to the conservation efforts in place. Lila was particularly fascinated by the exhibits showcasing the island's diverse wildlife. I appreciated the detailed explanations of Yakushima's history as a World Heritage site and the importance of preserving its natural environment. It was a great way to get grounded in the context of where we were, understanding the significance of this special place.


Explore the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of Yakushima at the World Heritage Conservation Center, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Next, we ventured to the Yakusugi Museum. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the history of Yakusugi (ancient cedar) trees and the island's forestry industry. The sheer size of some of the Yakusugi specimens was awe-inspiring, including a massive branch from the Jomon-sugi Cedar. Lila was amazed by the enormous chainsaws used to cut down trees in the past, a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment. The museum also highlighted the coexistence between nature and humans in the area, a theme that resonated deeply with me. It was a poignant reminder of the need for balance and sustainability in our relationship with the natural world. The museum is near the bus stop for the Arakawa trail, which we plan to take tomorrow.


Explore Yakusugi Museum: a gateway to Yakushima's ancient cedars and unique ecosystem, nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a morning of exploration, our stomachs were rumbling. We headed to Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant for lunch. I was eager to try some local cuisine, and flying fish seemed like a Yakushima specialty worth sampling. The meal was delicious! The delicate flavor of the fish, combined with the freshness of the local ingredients, was a true delight. Lila, surprisingly, was also a fan, happily munching away on her portion. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the simple, unfussy atmosphere of the restaurant.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine with an Italian twist at Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant on beautiful Yakushima Island.

With renewed energy, we decided to explore the Yakushima Market. I always enjoy visiting local markets when I travel; it's a fantastic way to get a feel for the local culture and sample regional products. This market was a vibrant hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local crafts. I picked up some unique souvenirs, including a beautiful piece of Yakusugi woodwork and some locally made ponkan juice. Lila was thrilled with a small, hand-painted wooden monkey, a memento of her Yakushima adventure. It was nice to support the local economy and take home a piece of the island with us.


Discover the vibrant Yakushima Market, where local crafts and fresh produce come together for an authentic shopping experience.

For dinner, we chose Il Mare, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and promise of Italian-inspired cuisine. It was a pleasant change of pace after a day of Japanese flavors. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. Lila enjoyed her pasta, and Hans-Peter and I savored our seafood dishes. It was a relaxing end to a busy but fulfilling day.


Discover Il Mare in Yakushima for an unforgettable Italian dining experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

As I reflect on our first day in Yakushima, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. This island is truly a special place, a sanctuary of natural beauty and cultural richness. I am eager to continue our exploration tomorrow, venturing into the Shiratani Unsui Gorge and seeking out Wilson's Stump. I am sure that these places are as breathtaking as the ones we saw today. I am also looking forward to having breakfast at Aqua Cafe, lunch at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, and dinner at Wakadaisho. I am also hoping to relax at Cafe&Bar RainTree. I am especially happy to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am also glad that I remembered to pack my hiking boots and rain gear, but I wish I hadn't forgotten the sunscreen and insect repellent. I will have to buy some tomorrow. Yakushima, you have already captured my heart. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.