Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima with Friends

Echoes of Ancient Giants

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Yakushima's ancient forests. It's hard to describe the feeling of being surrounded by trees that have stood for millennia, silent witnesses to the passage of time. It’s a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring power of nature and our own fleeting existence. This morning, after a hearty breakfast, my friends and I ventured into Yakusugi Land, a place where the spirits of ancient cedars whisper secrets to those who listen.



Explore Yakusugi Land: a UNESCO World Heritage nature preserve in Yakushima known for its ancient cedar trees and stunning hiking trails.

The day began with a visit to hiyoriya for breakfast. This vegan-friendly restaurant was a delightful surprise. I'm not strictly vegan myself, but I appreciate fresh, locally sourced food, and hiyoriya delivered on all fronts. The set meal was beautifully presented, featuring tofu, miso soup, brown rice, and organic vegetables. It was a nourishing start to a day of hiking, and it's always a pleasure to find such gems tucked away in unexpected places. The restaurant was small, and I'm glad we made a reservation, as it seemed to be quite popular.



Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiyoriya in Yakushima, where fresh local ingredients meet traditional flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.

The forest is not a place you enter; it's a state of mind you embrace.

After breakfast, we drove to Yakusugi Land, eager to explore the ancient cedar forests. The air was crisp and clean, with a hint of damp earth and the distinctive fragrance of cedar. The weather in Yakushima in April is generally pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 20°C, but it can also be quite rainy. Fortunately, today was mostly dry, with only a few light showers that added to the mystical atmosphere.


Yakusugi Land offers several trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Given our group's mixed fitness levels, we opted for the 150-minute course, which seemed like a good balance between immersion and accessibility. The trails are well-maintained, with boardwalks and stairs in steeper sections, making it manageable for most hikers. However, some sections were a bit more challenging, requiring some sure-footedness and stamina. It was a good thing I had my hiking boots with me; I would have been lost without them.


The highlight of Yakusugi Land, of course, is the ancient cedar trees, known as Yakusugi. These trees are over 1,000 years old, and some are estimated to be several thousand years old. Their gnarled trunks, draped in moss and ferns, tell stories of centuries of weathering storms and enduring hardships. One of the most impressive trees we saw was the Daio Sugi, also known as the Great King Cedar. Estimated to be around 3,000 years old, it's one of the largest trees on the island. Standing in its presence, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe and respect for the natural world.



Discover the ancient beauty of Daio Sugi, a remarkable nature preserve in Yakushima, showcasing towering cedar trees and rich biodiversity.

As a marine biologist, I'm accustomed to studying life beneath the waves, but there's something equally captivating about the ancient forests of Yakushima. The slow, steady growth of these trees, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their interconnectedness with the surrounding ecosystem offer valuable lessons about life and sustainability. It makes me think about the coastal ecosystems I study back in Halifax and the importance of preserving these delicate environments for future generations.


We continued our hike through Yakusugi Land, marveling at the Hige-choro (Bearded Old Man) Cedar and the Hahako-sugi Cedar. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle murmur of streams. It was a welcome respite from the noise and chaos of modern life. I couldn't help but think about Emily and Oliver back home. Emily would have loved the serenity of this place, and Oliver would have been fascinated by the intricate ecosystems within the forest. I made a mental note to bring them here someday.


For lunch, we stopped at Il Mare, an Italian restaurant near the airport. After a morning of hiking, we were all ravenous. Il Mare offers a variety of pasta, pizza, and risotto dishes, with a focus on local ingredients. I opted for a pasta dish with seafood, while my friends tried the local venison pizza. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It was a perfect way to refuel before our next adventure.



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

After lunch, we made our way to Daio Sugi. Daio Sugi, meaning Great King Cedar, was considered the largest Yakusugi before the discovery of Jomon Sugi. Seeing the Daio Sugi was truly awe-inspiring. The sheer size and age of the tree are difficult to comprehend. Its massive trunk, adorned with moss and ferns, tells a story of centuries of resilience and adaptation. Standing in its presence, I felt a profound sense of connection to the natural world and a deep appreciation for the enduring power of life.


As the day drew to a close, we gathered at Ambar for a drink. This bar had a good vibe and selection of drinks and was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. We shared stories, laughed, and reminisced about our adventures in Yakusugi Land. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.



Experience the lively dart bar culture at Ambar in Yakushima, where fun, friendship, and refreshing drinks await every night.

For dinner, we chose Wakadaisho, a popular dining spot in Miyanoura known for its fresh seafood. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including sashimi, grilled fish, and local tofu. The food was excellent, and the service was friendly and efficient. It was a satisfying conclusion to a day of hiking and exploration.



Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Senpiro Falls and the East China Sea Observatory. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Yakushima's natural beauty and learning more about its unique ecosystem. Hopefully, the weather will be kind to us, and we'll have another day of unforgettable experiences. Perhaps we'll even stop by The North Face shop; I've been meaning to get a new rain jacket.


As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Yakushima. The ancient forests, the delicious food, and the camaraderie of friends have created memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. It's a reminder that life is about more than just work and obligations; it's about exploring the world, connecting with nature, and sharing experiences with loved ones. And with that thought, I bid you goodnight from the enchanted island of Yakushima.