Exploring the Mystical Forests of Yakushima

Whispers of the Ancients

Today was a day of profound connection with nature. Yakushima continues to reveal its secrets, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be here, experiencing its magic. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, I sought solace and inspiration in the heart of Japan, and this island is delivering in ways I couldn't have imagined.

My day began with a simple breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It wasn't anything fancy, but it was a convenient spot to grab a quick bite before heading out for the day's adventures. Fuelled up, I set off to explore the Kurio River View. The drive itself was a treat, winding through lush landscapes, with glimpses of the sea sparkling in the distance. I was hoping for a peaceful morning by the river, and Yakushima did not disappoint.

The Kurio River View is a serene spot. The gentle sound of the water flowing over the rocks created a calming atmosphere. It was the perfect place to pause and reflect. I spent some time simply sitting by the riverbank, listening to the water and observing the surrounding nature. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of the forest. The sunlight filtered through the trees, creating a dance of light and shadow on the water's surface. I tried to capture the essence of this tranquil place with my camera, hoping to convey its peaceful beauty to those following my blog.


Explore the tranquil Kurio River View in Yakushima, a natural paradise offering breathtaking scenery and serene experiences for every tourist.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After soaking in the tranquility of the Kurio River, I decided to head towards the Kigensugi Cedar. This ancient tree is one of Yakushima's most iconic landmarks, and I was eager to see it for myself. The drive to Kigensugi took me further into the mountains. The roads became narrower and more winding, but the scenery was breathtaking. As I ascended, the vegetation changed, and I found myself surrounded by towering cedar trees, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky.

Reaching Kigensugi was an experience in itself. Unlike some of the other ancient cedars on the island, Kigensugi is easily accessible, located right beside the road. This made it possible to appreciate its grandeur without undertaking a strenuous hike. Standing before this majestic tree, I felt a sense of awe and humility. The Kigensugi is estimated to be around 3,000 years old, a living testament to the passage of time. Its massive trunk, with a circumference of over eight meters, was covered in moss and epiphytes, creating a miniature ecosystem of its own. I spent a long time simply gazing at the tree, trying to absorb its ancient wisdom.


Explore the iconic Kigensugi Cedar in Yakushima, a 1,000-year-old natural marvel surrounded by stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity.

The top of the Kigensugi is dead, but even in its decay, the tree exudes a powerful sense of vitality. It's a reminder that life and death are intertwined, and that even in decline, there is beauty and resilience. I took several photographs, trying to capture the tree's unique character and its place within the surrounding landscape. I wanted to share the feeling of wonder that I experienced in its presence.

For lunch, I decided to try DINING CAFE BAR SLOW. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of Italian dishes made with local ingredients. I opted for the handmade pasta, which came highly recommended. The pasta was delicious, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. It was a delightful change of pace from the traditional Japanese food I had been eating, and it was clear that the chef took pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. As someone who appreciates good food and enjoys trying new things, this was a definite highlight of the day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dining Cafe Bar Slow in Yakushima – where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Matsutake for dinner. This restaurant is known for its soba noodles, and I was eager to try them. Matsutake is a bit off the beaten path, located in a quiet residential area. It felt like a hidden gem, a place known only to locals and those who were willing to seek it out. The restaurant itself was small and intimate, with a traditional Japanese interior. I sat at a low table, surrounded by the warm glow of lanterns. The atmosphere was peaceful and inviting.

The soba noodles at Matsutake were exceptional. They were thin, delicate, and perfectly cooked. The broth was flavorful and aromatic, and the accompanying tempura was light and crispy. It was a simple meal, but it was executed with precision and care. I savored each bite, appreciating the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Yakushima's natural wonders.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.

After dinner, I decided to check out Ambar, a local bar. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a lively atmosphere. I ordered a local beer and struck up a conversation with the bartender. He was friendly and knowledgeable, and he shared some insights about the island's culture and history. It was a great way to unwind and connect with the local community. As someone who enjoys meeting new people and learning about different cultures, this was a welcome experience.


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

Tonight, I find myself reflecting on the day's adventures. Yakushima has a way of slowing things down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. The beauty of the natural world, the taste of good food, the warmth of human connection – these are the things that truly matter. As I prepare for tomorrow's exploration of Yakushima National Park and the Sea Turtle Hall, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and gratitude. I am eager to see what other wonders this magical island has in store.

Tomorrow promises more exploration, with plans to visit Yakushima National Park and the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. I'm particularly excited about the Sea Turtle Hall, as I've always been fascinated by these gentle creatures. Before that, I’ll grab breakfast at hiyoriya, which I've heard offers a delightful start to the day. It’s supposed to be great, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it myself. Afterwards, lunch will be at Shiosai, and dinner at SamPotei. I'm also planning a stop at Moriizumi, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs. I’m hoping to find something unique to remind me of this incredible journey.

As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Yakushima is a place that nourishes the soul, a place where you can reconnect with nature and discover a deeper sense of yourself. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here, to experience its magic, and to share it with you all.

I am also reminded of Lena back in Berlin. I know she would absolutely love this place. Perhaps one day, we can return together and explore Yakushima's wonders hand in hand. For now, I will continue to soak in its beauty and share its stories with the world. I miss her dearly, but I know that this solo journey is an important part of my own personal growth. I hope that my experiences here will inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the unknown.