A Solo Adventure into the Heart of Yakushima

Coastal Calm and Cultural Discoveries

Today was a day for soaking in the quieter side of Yakushima, trading the dense forests for the calming embrace of the coast and a deeper dive into the island's cultural heart. It's amazing how much variety this island holds, and I was eager to experience it all.

My day began, as many do here, with a delightful breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. The market bustled with early morning energy, locals and tourists alike drawn to the promise of fresh, local fare. I opted for the grilled flying fish, a Yakushima specialty. It was flaky, flavorful, and the perfect start to a day of exploration. I also browsed the souvenir shop, picking up a few small trinkets to remind me of this magical place. It’s always nice to find something unique that captures the essence of a destination.


Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off for Inakahama Beach. The drive itself was a treat, winding along the coastal roads with glimpses of the turquoise sea. As I arrived, the beach stretched out before me, a wide expanse of golden sand framed by lush greenery. The sky was a soft, hazy blue, typical of July in Yakushima, promising warmth without the harsh glare of direct sunlight.


Experience the tranquility of Inakahama Beach in Yakushima, where breathtaking sunsets and crystal-clear waters await every traveler.

Inakahama Beach is known as a prime nesting ground for loggerhead turtles, and while the nesting season is winding down, there was still a palpable sense of reverence for these incredible creatures. I took a long walk along the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and scanning the sand for any signs of turtle activity. The beach was relatively quiet, save for a few families enjoying the morning sun and the occasional fisherman casting a line into the surf.

I spent a blissful couple of hours simply relaxing on the beach, feeling the warm sand between my toes and letting the sound of the ocean wash over me. It's moments like these, when I can disconnect from the world and immerse myself in the present, that I truly appreciate the freedom of solo travel. I remembered something Liam, my husband, once told me about the beaches back in Ireland. He said:

The sea is always there, Astrid. It doesn't judge, it doesn't rush you. It just is.

After my tranquil beach interlude, I decided to delve into Yakushima's cultural side with a visit to the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center. Located near Miyanoura Port, the center offered a comprehensive overview of the island's unique ecosystem and the traditions of its people. The exhibits were well-curated, showcasing everything from the island's diverse flora and fauna to its history of forestry and agriculture.


Explore the vibrant ecosystem and rich culture of Yakushima at the Environmental and Cultural Village Center, your gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The center's highlight was undoubtedly the large-screen theater, where I watched a captivating film about Yakushima's natural environment. The film, titled Yakushima, Symphony of Forest and Water, was a visual feast, showcasing the island's stunning landscapes in all their glory. Although the commentary was in Japanese, the visuals were so compelling that I had no trouble following along. It really drove home the importance of preserving this incredible place.

Leaving the Cultural Village Center, I felt a deeper connection to Yakushima and a greater appreciation for its natural and cultural treasures. It was time for lunch, and I headed to Matsutake, a soba noodle house tucked away in a quiet corner of the island. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, as it's located behind another house up a small road, but the effort was well worth it.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.

Matsutake is a charming, authentic Japanese restaurant with a traditional atmosphere. I removed my shoes at the entrance and settled into a cozy tatami-mat room with a view of an interior garden. The owners were incredibly welcoming, and although there was no English menu, I managed to communicate my order with a combination of gestures and my phrasebook. I opted for the cold soba noodles with tempura, a local favorite, and it was absolutely delicious. The noodles were handmade and incredibly fresh, and the tempura was light and crispy. It was the perfect meal to refuel after a day of exploring.

In the late afternoon, with a satisfied stomach, I made my way to Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, a gelato shop located above the village of Nakama. I had heard rave reviews about their unique flavors made with local ingredients, and I was eager to try them for myself. The shop was charming, with a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating areas. I sampled a few flavors before settling on ocean salt and purple sweet potato – a surprisingly delicious combination! The gelato was creamy, flavorful, and the perfect way to cool down on a warm day.


Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.

As I savored my gelato, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the tranquility of Inakahama Beach to the cultural insights at the Village Center and the culinary delights at Matsutake and Sora-Umi, it had been a day of discovery and connection. Yakushima has a way of slowing you down, inviting you to appreciate the simple things in life.

For dinner, I decided to try Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. The gallery aspect intrigued me, and I was curious to see what local crafts and artwork they had on display. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered the flying fish ramen, another Yakushima specialty, and it was a flavorful and satisfying end to a wonderful day. The ramen was rich and savory, with tender pieces of flying fish adding a unique local touch. I also took some time to browse the gallery, admiring the intricate Yakusugi wooden chopsticks and other local crafts.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, where local flavors meet traditional techniques in an unforgettable dining experience.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, I made my way back to my accommodation, feeling grateful for the experiences of the day. Yakushima has a way of captivating the soul, and I was already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. I plan on visiting the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse and the Sunset Hill Observation Deck. Perhaps I'll even stop by Seirios for a drink in the evening. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but think how lucky I am to be here, experiencing the magic of Yakushima.

“The best journey in life is the journey inward.” It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me as I explore the depths of Yakushima, both its natural wonders and my own inner landscape.

Goodnight from Yakushima!