Exploring the Mystical Forests of Yakushima

A Day of Discovery and Responsibility

Today was a day of connecting with nature and contributing to its preservation. Yakushima continues to amaze me with its raw beauty and the dedication of its people to protect it. From exploring the island's national park to learning about sea turtle conservation, it was a day filled with awe and a sense of responsibility.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at hiyoriya. I'd heard great things about this small vegan restaurant that offers macrobiotic options, and I was eager to try it out. Finding the place was a bit of a challenge. It’s located about 2km north of the Yakushima Airport and the restaurant is set back from the main road. The signboard is small and difficult to spot, and the restaurant looks like a regular domestic building. However, once inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere made me feel right at home. I enjoyed a delicious and nutritious meal, fueling up for the day's adventures. As someone who appreciates sustainable living, I was thrilled to find a place that sources everything locally and makes it in-house. It’s inspiring to see such commitment to organic and vegetarian cuisine.

With a full stomach and a sense of purpose, I set out to explore Yakushima National Park. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, I knew I was in for a treat, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder. The park is an extensive cedar forest that contains some of Japan's oldest living trees, some trees being over 1000 years old. The Yakusugi, a combination of Yakushima and sugi (the Japanese word for cedar), are ancient trees over 1000 years old. The island's cedar forests were logged extensively in the past, particularly during the late feudal age for the production of cedar shingles. Today the forests have well recovered from past logging and are a national park. I spent hours wandering through the trails, marveling at the ancient cedar trees and the lush, green landscape. The air was fresh and clean, and the sounds of nature filled my ears. It was a truly immersive experience, and I felt a deep connection to the natural world.


Explore the ancient forests and breathtaking landscapes of Yakushima National Park, a jewel of Japan's natural heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

After immersing myself in the ancient forests, I decided to visit the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. Having read about the island being a crucial nesting site for sea turtles, I was keen to learn more about these magnificent creatures and the conservation efforts in place. The hall is located about a 10-15 minute walk from the main Miyanoura area. The Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall is a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. The hall offers an educational experience about sea turtles, with a knowledgeable manager providing clear and engaging explanations. During nesting and hatching seasons, visitors can join tours to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The admission fee supports conservation efforts for the turtles and their eggs. It was fascinating to learn about the biology, behavior, and habitats of sea turtles, as well as the challenges they face due to human activities and environmental changes. I was particularly moved by the dedication of the local community to protect these endangered species. Seeing the adorable two-month-old baby turtles hatched on the local beach was definitely a highlight. The experience reinforced my commitment to responsible travel and supporting conservation initiatives.


Experience the beauty and conservation of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, a must-visit museum for nature lovers.
Before dinner, I took some time to explore Moriizumi, a charming souvenir shop in Yakushima. I wanted to find a special keepsake to remind me of my time on the island, and Moriizumi did not disappoint. The shop was filled with local crafts, traditional gifts, and beautiful keepsakes reflecting Japan's vibrant culture. I picked up a few small items, including a handcrafted wooden carving of a sea turtle, as a reminder of the important conservation work being done on the island.


Explore Moriizumi in Yakushima: A charming souvenir store filled with local crafts, traditional gifts, and beautiful keepsakes reflecting Japan's vibrant culture.
For dinner, I chose SamPotei, a restaurant known for its local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is located by the riverside in the Anbo area. The restaurant boasts a lovely wooden decor and spacious two-floor layout, making it ideal for larger groups. The reviews I'd read praised their seafood dishes, so I decided to try the grilled fish set meal. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the set meal came with a variety of delicious side dishes. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals at the next table. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.
As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Yakushima and to learn about the importance of conservation. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share my experiences with others. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include a visit to Ryujin Falls and Drum rock (Taiko-iwa). I'm also planning to check out BAR しらはま in the evening. For breakfast I will visit Michikusa, and for lunch I will try Iso no Kaori. For dinner I will be visiting Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. I can't wait to see what other wonders this magical island has in store.

Yakushima has truly captured my heart, and I hope that my blog posts will inspire others to visit this incredible destination and to support the efforts to protect its natural heritage. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, learn about conservation, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community. I highly recommend a visit to anyone who loves nature and photography.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Yakushima's natural wonders, including Ryujin Falls and Drum Rock. I'm also excited to try some local cuisine and experience the island's nightlife. Stay tuned for more updates from my solo adventure in Yakushima!

As I head back to my guesthouse, I'm already excited about what tomorrow will bring. The prospect of witnessing the Ryujin Falls and the panoramic views from Drum Rock fills me with anticipation. I also plan to indulge in some local delicacies at the restaurants I've earmarked. I am particularly looking forward to a restful evening, perhaps with a visit to BAR しらはま, a local bar. It's these small moments of relaxation and reflection that make solo travel so rewarding. Good night from Yakushima!