Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima with Friends

Valley Views and Shrine Secrets

Today was all about diving deeper into Yakushima's soul. After several days of intense hiking, Emily and I, along with our friends, decided to explore some of the island's lesser-known, yet equally captivating, spots. It was a day of serene valley views and a journey back in time at an ancient shrine. It's amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into one small island.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It's funny, I usually don't expect much from airport food, but this place was a pleasant surprise. After a quick and satisfying meal, we fuelled up for the day. It was the perfect spot to grab a bite. It was conveniently located and surprisingly tasty. The plan was to head towards Yokogawa Valley. I was eager to see the emerald streams and dense vegetation I had read about. The restaurant's proximity to the airport made it a practical choice, and the food was good enough to set a positive tone for the adventures ahead.

The drive to Yokogawa Valley was stunning. The roads wound through lush forests, and every turn offered a new, breathtaking view. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of cedar and damp earth. It was a sensory overload in the best way possible. As a marine biologist, I'm naturally drawn to the ocean, but there's something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by ancient trees and the sounds of a thriving forest.

Yokogawa Valley itself was even more impressive than the photos I'd seen. The valley is nestled deep within Yakushima's interior. Towering granite rocks were scattered throughout the area. Clear streams cascaded over moss-covered stones. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. We spent hours exploring the valley, hopping from rock to rock, and simply soaking in the tranquility. I couldn't help but think about Emily Dickinson's words:

Nature is a haunted house—but Art—is a house that tries to be haunted.

The valley felt like a place where nature truly haunted, in the most beautiful way possible.


Explore the serene beauty of Yokogawa Valley in Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by lush forests and unique wildlife.

One of the highlights was discovering a hidden pool. The water was so clear that you could see every pebble on the bottom. It was tempting to take a dip, but we resisted, wanting to respect the delicate ecosystem. Instead, we sat by the water's edge, listening to the gentle sounds of the stream and the rustling of leaves. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple joys in life.

After our time in Yokogawa Valley, we decided to visit Yahazudake Shrine. It's located on the coast, near Isso, and is known for its picturesque setting. The drive there took us along winding coastal roads, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The contrast between the lush green forests and the deep blue sea was striking.

Finding the shrine was a bit of an adventure in itself. We parked the car and followed a small path that led through a grove of trees. The path opened up to reveal a bright red torii gate, standing majestically against the backdrop of the ocean. It was a truly breathtaking sight. The gate marked the entrance to the shrine, which is said to be home to the gods of fishing and marriage.

As we walked through the torii gate, we noticed a staircase descending into what appeared to be a cave. Curiosity piqued, we carefully made our way down the steps. The cave was damp and cool, with water dripping from the ceiling. It felt like stepping into another world. At the end of the cave, we found a small shrine, adorned with colorful ribbons and offerings. The atmosphere was both mysterious and peaceful.


Experience the spiritual serenity of Yahazudake Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by Yakushima's lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

We spent some time at the shrine, taking in the surroundings and reflecting on the history of the place. It was fascinating to think about all the people who had come to this spot over the centuries, seeking blessings and guidance. As a history buff, I always find it rewarding to connect with the past in such a tangible way.

Before leaving, we took a moment to appreciate the view from the shrine. The ocean stretched out before us, vast and endless. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was both soothing and invigorating. It was the perfect way to end our visit to Yahazudake Shrine.

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip towards the horizon, we decided to start heading back towards our campsite. Before that, we made a stop at Wood Shop Kikori, a local woodworking shop. I had read about it and was eager to see the craftsmanship firsthand. I wanted to find a unique souvenir to remind me of our time on the island.

The shop was located a short drive south of Anbo. It was a small, unassuming building, but as soon as we stepped inside, we were enveloped by the warm scent of cedar. The owner, a former Yakushima forester, greeted us with a smile and invited us to browse his creations.

The shop was filled with a variety of wooden crafts, from small trinkets to larger furniture pieces. Everything was made from local Yakusugi cedar, known for its durability and beautiful grain. I was particularly drawn to the small, intricately carved figurines of forest animals. They were so detailed and lifelike, it was hard to believe they were made by hand.


Explore the artistry of Yakushima at Wood Shop Kikori, a unique woodworking supply store showcasing beautiful handcrafted wooden items and tools.

I ended up purchasing a small wooden carving of a Yaku deer, a species unique to Yakushima. It was the perfect reminder of our time exploring the island's forests. Emily bought a set of coasters made from Yakusugi cedar, which she plans to use at home in Halifax. We chatted with the owner for a while, learning about the history of woodworking on Yakushima and the importance of sustainable forestry practices. It was fascinating to hear his perspective, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the local culture.

As the day drew to a close, we were all feeling a bit peckish. We decided to treat ourselves to a nice Italian dinner at Il Mare. I'd heard good things about their pizza and pasta, and Emily was craving something other than Japanese food. Il Mare is conveniently located near the airport, so it was an easy stop on our way back to the campsite.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic atmosphere. The menu featured a variety of Italian dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. We started with a Caprese salad, which was bursting with flavor. For our main courses, I ordered the seafood pasta, while Emily opted for the venison pizza. Both dishes were delicious. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the venison pizza had a unique, gamey flavor that I really enjoyed.


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

We paired our meal with a bottle of local wine, which was surprisingly good. The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall experience was top-notch. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Yakushima's hidden gems.

As we drove back to our campsite, the stars began to appear in the night sky. The air was cool and crisp, and the only sound was the gentle hum of the engine. I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Yakushima. It's a place that truly nourishes the soul.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Kigensugi Cedar and the Botanic Gardens. I'm excited to see more of Yakushima's ancient trees and learn about the island's unique flora. Perhaps we'll cap off the day with a visit to Ambar, a local bar I've heard good things about. Until then, I'm content to drift off to sleep under the stars, dreaming of emerald valleys and ancient shrines. It's hard to believe our trip is drawing to a close. Time really does fly when you're surrounded by such natural beauty and good company. I will need to remember to buy some Yakushima soy sauce at the airport before we leave.