Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima with Friends

Beacon of Light and Gentle Giants

Today was all about embracing the coastal charm of Yakushima, a stark contrast to the dense forests we've been exploring. It was a day filled with lighthouses, sea turtles, and the simple joys of island life shared with good friends. I'm finding that even on a small island like this, the variety of experiences is astounding.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Smiley, a cozy cafe overlooking Anbo harbor. Emily had read about it, and it turned out to be a delightful start to the day. The coffee was strong, the muffins were fresh, and the view of the harbor was incredibly peaceful. I had a simple sandwich, while the others tried the local specialty, French toast with Yakushima honey. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our coastal adventures. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Halifax, where the locals gather to chat and start their day.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

Our first stop was the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse. The drive there was beautiful, winding along the coastal roads with glimpses of the East China Sea. The lighthouse itself, while unmanned and not open for tours, was a striking sight against the rugged coastline. I learned that it has been protecting maritime safety since 1897. The views from the lighthouse were stunning, with Kouerrabu Island visible in the distance. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to convey the vastness and beauty of the ocean. The fresh sea air and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks were invigorating.


Explore the breathtaking Yakushima-todai Lighthouse, a stunning landmark surrounded by the natural beauty of Yakushima Island, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. As a marine biologist, I was particularly excited about this visit. The hall is dedicated to educating visitors about the sea turtles that nest on Yakushima's beaches, particularly the loggerhead turtles. We learned about their life cycle, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts in place to protect them. The manager of the hall was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, providing clear and engaging explanations. We even got to see some adorable two-month-old baby turtles that had hatched on a local beach. It was heartwarming to see these tiny creatures, knowing they would eventually make their way back to these very shores to nest.


Experience the beauty and conservation of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, a must-visit museum for nature lovers.

After immersing ourselves in the world of sea turtles, it was time for lunch. We headed to At Pesca, a casual cafe known for its quick service and local flavors. I opted for a seafood pasta, while the others tried the flying fish burger, a local specialty. The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. It was a great place to recharge before our next adventure. Reminded me of the small family restaurants back home in Bendigo.


Experience fast food like never before at At Pesca in Yakushima – where local flavors meet quick service in a delightful setting.

In the evening, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its unique souvenirs and exquisite specialties, including flying fish ramen, deer tataki, and venison steak. The restaurant also offers mango ice cream made locally on the island. I tried the venison steak, which was cooked to perfection and incredibly flavorful. Emily had the flying fish ramen, which she thoroughly enjoyed. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of coastal exploration.


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

After dinner, we decided to check out Cafe & Bar RainTree for a nightcap. This place is known for its unique blend of cafe culture and karaoke fun. While karaoke isn't exactly my forte, it was a fun experience nonetheless. We enjoyed some local shochu and listened to some surprisingly good (and some not-so-good) karaoke performances. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Experience the vibrant blend of karaoke and cafe culture at Cafe & Bar RainTree in beautiful Yakushima, Japan.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Yakushima continues to surprise and delight me with its natural beauty and unique culture. Sharing these moments with friends makes it all the more special. I am looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore the Yokogawa Valley and visit the Yahazudake Shrine. I am also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at the Wood Shop Kikori. The island keeps on giving and I am happy to keep on taking.

Tomorrow, we're planning to delve deeper into the island's interior, with a visit to the Yokogawa Valley and the Yahazudake Shrine. I'm particularly looking forward to the valley, as I've heard it's a stunning example of Yakushima's lush landscapes. And of course, we'll need to fuel up for the day with breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. Should be another memorable day!

Until then, cheers from Yakushima!