Solo Adventure in Yakushima: Exploring Japan's Natural Wonder

Yakushima's Wild Embrace

Another day, another adventure on this enchanting island! Today was all about embracing Yakushima's wild side, from its stunning coastal roads to its playful inhabitants and, of course, the delightful flavors that make this island so unique. It’s amazing how quickly one can fall in love with a place, and Yakushima has certainly captured my heart.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Smiley in Anbo. This cozy little cafe, overlooking the harbor, was the perfect spot to fuel up for the day's adventures. I opted for their set breakfast, a delightful ensemble of freshly baked muffins, homemade soup, and a strong cup of coffee. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the friendly staff made me feel right at home. It's these small, local experiences that truly enrich a journey, offering a glimpse into the heart of a community.

With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I set off to explore the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife. This narrow, winding road on the west side of the island promised an encounter with Yakushima's famous wildlife, and it certainly delivered. As I drove along, the lush green forests framed the rocky coastline, creating a breathtaking panorama. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of the sea and the forest. It was a sensory feast, a reminder of nature's incredible power and beauty.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima's World Heritage Coastal Road, a scenic journey through nature's wonders and diverse wildlife.

It wasn't long before I encountered the island's playful residents: the Yakushima macaques and Yaku deer. They were everywhere! Monkeys scampered across the road, while deer grazed peacefully in the undergrowth. I even spotted a mother monkey carrying her baby, a heartwarming sight that brought a smile to my face. I made sure to keep a respectful distance, remembering the importance of not interfering with their natural behavior. It was a privilege to witness these creatures in their natural habitat, a reminder of the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

The beauty of Yakushima lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the unique encounters it offers with its wild inhabitants.

For lunch, I stopped at the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. This restaurant is known for blending local flavors with traditional techniques. The gallery aspect was interesting, blending art with cuisine. It gave me a moment to pause and reflect on the beauty I'd witnessed so far. The meal was delicious, featuring fresh, local ingredients that showcased the island's culinary heritage. It was a delightful culinary experience, a perfect complement to the day's adventures.


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

As the afternoon wore on, I continued my drive along the coastal road, soaking in the stunning scenery. The western area of Yakushima is home to some of Japan's most extensive laurel forests. The road, also known as the Seibu Rindo Western Forest Path, cuts through rich vegetation and is known as the Green Tunnel. I stopped at several observation points, taking in the panoramic views of the coastline and the distant islands. The sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a day filled with natural beauty.

For dinner, I decided to try Subarashi Indian Restaurant. After days of Japanese cuisine, I was in the mood for something different, and this place came highly recommended. I wasn't disappointed! The restaurant offered a wide range of Indian and Nepalese dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options. I ordered a vegetable curry, specifying no dairy to keep it vegan, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and authentic, a testament to the chef's skill. It was a surprising find on this remote island, a reminder that culinary adventures can be found in the most unexpected places.


Discover authentic Indian flavors at Subarashi Indian Restaurant in Yakushima, where tradition meets local charm.

To cap off the evening, I ventured out to Catch the Beer, Yakushima's very own craft brewery. Finding the shop proved to be a bit of a challenge, as it was quite tiny. They are committed to making beer that maximizes the blessings of Yakushima's nature since they opened in July 2017. They use the aroma of Yakusugi cedar to make an amber ale called YAKUSHIMA CEDAR. There was also a saison called SENJU which used natural yeast from Yakushima. It was a cozy spot, and I enjoyed sampling some of their unique brews, including beers made with local cedar and citrus. Chatting with the locals, I learned more about the island's history and culture. It was a perfect way to end the day, connecting with the community and savoring the flavors of Yakushima.


Explore Catch the Beer in Yakushima for an authentic taste of Japan's craft brewery culture amidst stunning landscapes.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Yakushima's wild side. From the playful monkeys and deer to the stunning coastal scenery and the delicious food, it's been a day of unforgettable moments. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to visit the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse and the Meoto Sugi [Tomorrow's itinerary]. Who knows what wonders await?

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse and Meoto Sugi. I'll start with breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant, followed by lunch at Wakadaisho and dinner at SamPotei. I might also stop by Tomari Book Store to pick up a new read. It sounds like another exciting day of exploration and discovery!

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to charge my portable phone charger. I nearly forgot it today, and I don't want to be caught without power tomorrow! Good night from Yakushima. I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all!

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Until tomorrow!