Solo Expedition to Yakushima: Embracing Nature's Serenity

A Fond Farewell

As my eleven-day journey through Yakushima draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences and profound connections I've made with this enchanting island. Today was about soaking in the last moments, immersing myself in the local culture, and mentally preparing for the flight back to Toronto. It's amazing how a place can feel like home in such a short time.

My final day began with a delightful breakfast at Aqua Cafe in Miyanoura. The café was cozy, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. I opted for the hamburg steak and karaage combo, a recommendation I had seen online. The hamburg steak was incredibly fluffy, and the karaage was perfectly seasoned and crispy. It was a hearty and satisfying way to start the day. It reminded me of Isabella’s cooking – she always manages to make even the simplest meals feel special.


Discover Aqua Cafe in Yakushima - where exquisite local cuisine meets breathtaking nature in a cozy dining experience.
With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed to my first destination: the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. Located a short walk from Miyanoura Port, the museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich past. The exhibits showcased artifacts from daily life, tools used for logging the massive Yakusugi cedar trees, and fishing boats used to catch flying fish. It was captivating to learn about the ingenuity and resilience of the islanders who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Seeing the exhibits on how the islanders harvested the cedar trees gave me a deeper appreciation for the respect they had for the environment.

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

After immersing myself in history, I ventured into the Kokemusu Forest, also known as the Mossy Forest. This enchanting woodland is part of the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, and it felt like stepping into another world. The forest floor, rocks, and ancient trees were covered in a thick carpet of vibrant green moss. The sunlight filtering through the canopy created an ethereal glow, highlighting the intricate details of the moss-covered landscape. I spent hours wandering through the forest, taking photos and simply enjoying the tranquility. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds.


Hike through an enchanted forest of ancient cedars and vibrant moss in Yakushima's Kokemusu Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Kokemusu Forest is said to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki's film, Princess Mononoke, and it's easy to see why. The mystical atmosphere and lush greenery create a sense of wonder and magic. As I walked deeper into the forest, I imagined the Kodama spirits peeking out from behind the mossy rocks. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

Before heading to the airport, I made a stop at The North Face store in the Yakushima Environmental Cultural Village Center. I wanted to pick up a souvenir to remember my trip, and the store had a great selection of outdoor gear and Yakushima-exclusive merchandise. I ended up buying a limited-edition Yakushima t-shirt and a water bottle. I know Sofia will love the t-shirt; she’s always asking me about my adventures.


Explore the great outdoors with premium sportswear from The North Face, your premier gear destination in Yakushima's stunning landscapes.
For lunch, I decided to try Wakadaisho in Miyanoura. This popular izakaya is known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a sashimi platter, which featured a variety of local fish. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the chef even gave me a few extra goodies to try. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and I enjoyed chatting with them about the island and its culture. It felt like a true local experience.


Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.
With a mix of contentment and melancholy, I made my way to the Yakushima Airport for my flight back to Kagoshima. Before boarding, I had a simple dinner at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. As I ate, I reflected on the incredible journey I had just completed. Yakushima had exceeded all my expectations. The island's natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality had left an indelible mark on my soul.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine at Yakushima Airport Restaurant - where flavor meets nature's beauty.
This solo trip to Yakushima was exactly what I needed. It allowed me to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, reconnect with nature, and discover a new sense of inner peace. As a financial analyst in Toronto, I spend most of my days crunching numbers and analyzing data. This trip reminded me of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the unknown. It also made me appreciate the simple things in life: the beauty of nature, the kindness of strangers, and the joy of self-discovery.

I thought a lot about Isabella and Sofia during my trip. I missed them dearly, but I also knew that this solo adventure was something I needed to do for myself. I plan to bring them back here someday so they can experience the magic of Yakushima firsthand. I can already imagine Sofia’s eyes widening as she explores the Mossy Forest and Isabella’s smile as she savors the local cuisine.

As the plane took off, I gazed out the window at the receding coastline of Yakushima. I knew that a part of me would always remain on this enchanting island. I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the world around me. Yakushima, thank you for the memories. Until next time.

Now, it's time to head back to Toronto, back to Isabella and Sofia, and back to my life. But I know that I'm bringing a piece of Yakushima with me, a sense of serenity and a reminder to always seek out new adventures.