Solo Adventure in Yakushima: Exploring Japan's Natural Wonder

Reaching for the Sky and Touching History

Today was a day of immense physical challenge and profound natural beauty. I set out to conquer Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, and to stand in the presence of the ancient Sandaisugi Cedar. The sheer scale of the island's landscapes, from its towering peaks to its ancient forests, left me breathless, both literally and figuratively. It was a day of pushing my limits and connecting with nature on a deeply personal level.

My day began, as many do here, with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It's conveniently located and offers a comforting, familiar start to the day. I grabbed a quick bite—nothing fancy, just fuel for the day's adventure. The old-school vibe of the place was a pleasant reminder of simpler times. I chuckled to myself, remembering Marie's insistence on packing a portable phone charger; of course, I'd forgotten it.

The first major stop was the Sandaisugi Cedar. The trail to it was an experience in itself, a path winding through a forest that felt ancient and timeless. The Sandaisugi, a fusion of three generations of cedar, is a testament to resilience and time. The first generation lived for 1,200 years before falling, the second grew on its stump for 1,000 years, and the third has been growing for 350 years. Standing before it, I felt a humbling sense of insignificance in the face of such enduring life. It’s a relatively flat walk along what used to be a rail car track. The walk was a good warm up for what was to come.


Explore the ancient beauty of Sandaisugi Cedar, a serene nature preserve in Yakushima, renowned for its majestic cedar trees and rich biodiversity.

The journey is the destination; every step, every breath, a part of the story.

After the Sandaisugi, I had lunch at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. It's a bustling place, a hub for both food and souvenirs. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal, refueling for the ascent ahead. I picked up a few local snacks for the trail, thinking Thomas would enjoy them.

Then came the big one: Mt. Miyanoura. As the highest peak in Kyushu, it presented a serious challenge. The climb was strenuous, a relentless uphill battle that tested my endurance. The trail wound through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to subarctic vegetation near the summit. The air grew thin, and the weather turned unpredictable. I had to be prepared for cold weather.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and ancient cedar forests of Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, a treasure for nature enthusiasts.

The views from the summit were simply breathtaking. The entire island stretched out before me, a tapestry of green and blue, with the vast ocean as a backdrop. I could see the coastline, the forests, and even the distant specks of other islands. It was a moment of triumph, a reward for the grueling climb. I could see why Yakushima is called the Alps on the Sea.

I took a moment to reflect on the journey, the challenges overcome, and the beauty witnessed. It was a reminder of the power and resilience of nature, and of my own capacity for perseverance. The descent was tough on the knees, but the satisfaction of reaching the summit carried me through.

For dinner, I treated myself to a well-deserved Italian meal at Il Mare. Located conveniently near the airport, it offered a delightful change of pace. I savored the flavors of fresh, local ingredients expertly crafted into classic Italian dishes. It was the perfect way to end a day of such intense physical exertion.


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

As I sit here, writing this, my body aches, but my spirit soars. Today was a testament to the transformative power of travel, the ability of nature to inspire and challenge, and the simple joy of pushing oneself beyond perceived limits.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife. I’m looking forward to a more relaxed pace, a chance to observe the island’s unique fauna and flora at sea level. I’ll start the day with breakfast at Smiley, and perhaps end it with a beer at Catch the Beer. For now, though, I need a good night’s sleep. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am reminded of something Marie once told me, “The best views come after the hardest climbs.” Today, I lived that truth.

Until tomorrow,
Jef