Exploring the Mystical Forests of Yakushima

Finding My Feet in Yakushima's Embrace

After a long journey, touching down in Yakushima felt like stepping into another world. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth, a welcome change from the sterile environment of airports. Today was all about immersing myself in the island’s natural beauty and sampling its local flavors. It was a day to remember, filled with serene landscapes and the promise of more adventures to come.

The journey here was quite the adventure in itself. From the moment I left Banff, I was filled with anticipation, the kind that only a solo trip to a place as magical as Yakushima can inspire. The flights were smooth, thankfully, and the ferry from Kagoshima offered a tantalizing glimpse of the island's dramatic coastline. I couldn't wait to set foot on this UNESCO World Heritage site and begin my exploration. My first order of business after arriving was, of course, food! I grabbed breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It wasn't anything fancy, but it was hearty and satisfying, just what I needed to fuel up for the day ahead.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine at Yakushima Airport Restaurant - where flavor meets nature's beauty.

My first stop was the enchanting Shiratani Unsui Gorge. As I navigated the winding mountain roads, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The views overlooking the valley were simply breathtaking, the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean stretching out before me. I even spotted a family of macaques lounging on the warm road – a truly unforgettable sight. I was so glad I remembered to pack my camera; Liam would have loved to see this. The one thing I did forget, which I am kicking myself over, is insect repellent. I made a mental note to pick some up at the Yakushima Market later.


Explore the lush beauty of Shiratani Unsui Gorge, a scenic gem in Yakushima, featuring ancient cedar forests and stunning hiking trails.

The Shiratani Unsui Gorge is everything I imagined and more. The moss-covered rocks and ancient cedar trees create an ethereal atmosphere, almost like stepping into a scene from a fairytale. It’s easy to see why this place is said to have inspired Studio Ghibli's *Princess Mononoke*. The air was so clean and crisp, and the sound of the flowing water was incredibly soothing. I spent hours wandering along the trails, completely lost in the beauty of it all. I even managed to find a quiet spot to sketch some of the unique flora, trying to capture the essence of this magical forest in my travel journal.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After my forest adventure, it was time to chase some waterfalls. I headed towards Senpiro Falls, another of Yakushima's natural wonders. The falls are easily accessible from the main road, which was a relief after all that hiking. As I approached, the roar of the water grew louder, and then, suddenly, there it was – a magnificent cascade of water plunging down a massive granite rock face. The sheer power and beauty of the falls were mesmerizing. I took a few photos, but no picture could truly capture the feeling of standing in its presence. Apparently the walkway to get closer to the falls is closed due to a landslide, but the view from the viewing platform was still incredible.


Explore the enchanting beauty of Senpiro Falls in Yakushima, where nature's splendor meets serene tranquility amidst lush greenery.

By this point, I was starting to feel a bit peckish, so I decided to head to Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant for lunch. I'd heard great things about their local cuisine, and I was eager to try some of Yakushima's specialties. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I opted for the flying fish set meal, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the accompanying dishes were equally delightful. It was the perfect way to refuel after a long day of exploring. They were even able to cater to some dietary restrictions, which was amazing. I was so full after that meal!


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

Before dinner, I decided to check out the Yakushima Market. I wanted to pick up some local souvenirs and, of course, that all-important insect repellent. The market was bustling with activity, filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. I managed to find some beautiful Yakusugi wooden chopsticks as a gift for Liam, and I stocked up on some local snacks for the rest of my trip. I also made sure to grab that insect repellent – lesson learned!


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

As evening approached, I made my way to the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant for dinner. This place is known for its unique atmosphere and its exquisite specialties. The restaurant doubles as a gallery, showcasing local art and crafts, which added to the overall ambiance. I decided to try the deer tataki, a local delicacy, and it was surprisingly delicious. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the presentation was beautiful. I also treated myself to some mango ice cream made locally on the island – a perfect way to end the day.


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

Reflecting on today’s adventures, I feel an incredible sense of peace and gratitude. Yakushima has already captivated me with its natural beauty and its warm, welcoming people. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit Jōmon Sugi and Yakusugi Land. I’ve heard the hike to Jōmon Sugi is quite challenging, so I’m mentally preparing myself for a long day of trekking. I might need to grab an extra pastry from Il Mare for breakfast before I head out. And perhaps a celebratory drink at Cafe & Bar RainTree in the evening!

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploring this magical island. I can already tell that this solo adventure is going to be one for the books. The fresh air, the stunning scenery, and the sense of solitude are exactly what I needed to reconnect with myself and with nature. And who knows what other wonders await me in the days to come?

I'm so grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, and I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all. Goodnight from Yakushima!