Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima with Friends

Island Echoes: A Final Day in Yakushima

As our Yakushima adventure draws to a close, the island has certainly left an indelible mark on my soul. Today was a bittersweet symphony of exploration and reflection, as we savored the last moments of this verdant paradise before our journey back to Halifax. With my friends by my side, we set out to embrace the unique experiences Yakushima had in store for us, from the tranquil embrace of ancient banyan trees to the vibrant flavors of tropical fruits and the captivating scents of the island's flora.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. The cafe was a cozy spot, and I savored every bite of my meal, knowing it would be one of the last tastes of Yakushima's local cuisine before heading back to Canadian fare. Emily would have loved this place, with its intimate atmosphere and focus on fresh, local ingredients. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes we've enjoyed here once I get back home. Maybe I'll even try brewing some Tankan juice. I think Oliver would appreciate that.


Discover Aqua Cafe in Yakushima - where exquisite local cuisine meets breathtaking nature in a cozy dining experience.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park. The park, nestled by the port in the small village of Shitoko, was a shady haven dominated by a multitude of banyan trees, known locally as 'gajumaru'. As a marine biologist, I'm naturally drawn to coastal ecosystems, but there's something equally captivating about these terrestrial giants. The air was thick with humidity, and the light filtering through the canopy created an ethereal glow, casting long shadows that danced across the forest floor.


Discover the tranquility of Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park in Yakushima, where ancient banyan trees and vibrant wildlife create a serene escape in nature.

The park wasn't large, but it offered a peaceful respite from the midday sun. We wandered along the short walking courses, marveling at the intricate network of aerial roots that cascaded from the branches, reaching down to the earth like grasping tendrils. Some of these trees were said to be over 500 years old, their gnarled trunks bearing witness to centuries of storms and seasons. I tried to imagine what these ancient beings had seen, the stories they could tell if only they could speak.

Nature's beauty is a symphony of interconnectedness, where every element plays a vital role in the delicate balance of life.

We spent a good hour simply wandering, lost in the tranquility of the park. My friends, equally captivated, snapped photos and shared their own reflections on the beauty of the natural world. It was a reminder of why we chose to come to Yakushima in the first place: to immerse ourselves in nature, to reconnect with the earth, and to find solace in its enduring presence. The park was located next to Shitoko Port, and I could spot sea turtles in the water, which was a delight.



Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. Located above the village of Nakama, the garden was an expansive collection of tropical plants and fruits from around the world. As we arrived, we were greeted by a friendly elderly gentleman who, despite the language barrier, was eager to share his knowledge of the garden's diverse flora. He led us through the lush, jungle-like surroundings, pointing out various species of bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas. It was fascinating to see these exotic fruits growing in their natural habitat, a world away from the sterile supermarket shelves back home.


Explore the lush beauty of Yakushima Fruit Garden, a tropical paradise filled with diverse fruits and stunning landscapes perfect for all ages.

At the end of the tour, we were treated to a delightful fruit platter prepared by the “fruit mother,” as our guide affectionately called her. The platter was a colorful assortment of freshly picked fruits, each bursting with its own unique flavor. There was the tangy sweetness of passionfruit, the creamy texture of papaya, and the refreshing juiciness of pineapple. It was a true taste of the tropics, a sensory experience that awakened our palates and left us feeling invigorated. It reminded me of the work Emily does in her garden back home, nurturing life and growth with her own two hands.



Before lunch, we decided to stop by YAWARACA “The Scent of Yakushima LAB”. I was intrigued by the idea of capturing the essence of Yakushima's forests in a bottle. The shop was located between Miyanoura and the airport, and as we stepped inside, we were greeted by a symphony of aromas – the earthy scent of cedarwood, the zesty fragrance of citrus, and the subtle spice of wild cinnamon. I learned that Yawaraca uses jisugi, young cryptomeria trees planted after World War II, instead of Yakusugi, ancient cryptomeria trees, for their essential oils.


Explore YAWARACA in Yakushima for exquisite home goods that celebrate local craftsmanship and the island's natural beauty.

The staff explained that Yawaraca was committed to sustainable practices, using only thinned trees from neglected reforestation areas. They also showed us the distillation process, explaining how they extracted the essential oils from the various plants and trees. It was fascinating to learn about the science behind the scents, the way in which these natural compounds could evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of place. The shop also had workshops, which I thought was a cool idea.



I ended up purchasing a small bottle of Yakushima cedarwood essential oil, hoping to bring a piece of the island's tranquility back home with me. I imagined using it in my study, creating a calming atmosphere that would transport me back to the ancient forests of Yakushima whenever I needed a moment of peace. I thought it would be a great gift for Emily as well, a reminder of my journey and a token of my love. I know she'll appreciate it.



For lunch, we headed to Kamogawa Restaurant. It was a no-frills establishment, but the food was authentic and delicious. I ordered a set meal featuring flying fish, a local specialty. The fish was grilled to perfection, its delicate flesh infused with a smoky flavor. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, a testament to the island's culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As we savored our lunch, we reminisced about our adventures over the past eleven days. We had hiked through ancient forests, climbed rugged mountains, and soaked in natural hot springs. We had encountered playful monkeys, graceful deer, and a myriad of bird species. We had tasted exotic fruits, sampled local delicacies, and learned about the island's rich culture and history. We had forged new friendships, strengthened old bonds, and created memories that would last a lifetime. Kamogawa also has a bento shop, and I noticed they offered bamboo-leaf wrapped bentos for hiking trips.



Our final dinner in Yakushima was at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. It was a fitting end to our journey, a celebration of the island's art, culture, and cuisine. The restaurant was adorned with local crafts and artwork, showcasing the talents of the island's residents. The menu featured a variety of exquisite specialties, including flying fish ramen, kamenote (goose barnacles), deer tataki, and venison steak. I opted for the venison steak, eager to savor one last taste of Yakushima's unique flavors. The service was great, and I enjoyed the food.


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

As I sit here now, reflecting on our Yakushima adventure, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. This island has exceeded all of my expectations, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual renewal. It has been a journey of discovery, a chance to reconnect with nature, and a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's precious ecosystems. As a marine biologist, I am committed to protecting our oceans, but I also recognize the interconnectedness of all life on Earth. Yakushima has reinforced this belief, reminding me that every ecosystem, no matter how small or remote, plays a vital role in the delicate balance of life.



Tomorrow, we'll be making our way back to Kagoshima and then Tokyo, before our long flight back to Halifax. While I'm eager to see Emily and Oliver again, a part of me will remain here, in the ancient forests of Yakushima, forever enchanted by its mystical allure. It's time to head back to Halifax now, and share my experiences with Emily and Oliver. And perhaps start planning our next adventure together.