Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima: A Solo Journey

A Day of Discovery and Reflection

Today was a day of diving deeper into the heart of Yakushima, a journey through its history, culture, and the flavors that define this enchanting island. From exploring ancient forests to savoring local delicacies and unwinding with a nightcap, it was a day filled with enriching experiences that resonated with my soul.

My day began with a short walk from my guesthouse to Michikusa for breakfast. I went with the traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly steamed rice. It's funny, I never used to be a big fan of fish for breakfast back in Berlin, but here, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the fresh morning air, it just feels right. Fuelled up and ready to go, I set off for my first destination: the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center.


Explore the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of Yakushima at the World Heritage Conservation Center, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

The Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center was a great starting point to truly understand the island. The center offered a comprehensive overview of the island's ecosystem. I learned about the unique flora and fauna, and the conservation efforts in place to protect this precious environment. The exhibits were incredibly informative, detailing the island's ecological significance and the importance of preserving its natural treasures. It's amazing how much detail they go into, explaining everything from the altitude's effect on plant life to the specific initiatives designed to minimize environmental impact while hiking. As someone passionate about sustainable living, seeing these efforts firsthand was truly inspiring. Admission was free, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Next on my list was the Yakusugi Museum, a place dedicated to the ancient cedar trees that Yakushima is famous for. Situated above Anbo, the museum offered a comprehensive insight into the island's history, culture, and natural environment. The museum itself is beautiful, with an interior crafted almost entirely from cedar tiling, creating a lovely, immersive atmosphere. I spent a good couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, learning about the history of Yakushima's wood and the logging industry that once thrived here. There were interactive displays, videos, and even a temporary photography exhibition showcasing the island's beauty through the eyes of locals and visitors. One of the highlights was a preserved section of the Jomon Sugi, offering a tangible connection to one of the island's most iconic trees. The museum provided audio guides in multiple languages, including English, which was incredibly helpful. I even picked up a few wooden postcards from the gift shop as souvenirs.


Explore Yakusugi Museum: a gateway to Yakushima's ancient cedars and unique ecosystem, nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    

To truly appreciate the present, one must understand the past.

After immersing myself in the island's history and natural wonders, it was time to indulge in some local flavors. For lunch, I headed to 和食 海舟 (Washoku Kaishu), a restaurant recommended for its authentic Japanese cuisine. Located near the A-Coop supermarket in Miyanoura, the restaurant is known for its Yakushima favorites, including flying fish, broken-neck mackerel, and venison. I decided to try the flying fish teishoku set meal, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh and perfectly prepared, and the set included a variety of side dishes that showcased the local ingredients. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals who were also dining there. It was a truly authentic culinary experience that gave me a taste of Yakushima's unique flavors.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at 和食 海舟 in Yakushima - where culinary artistry meets local ingredients.

With a full stomach and a happy heart, I spent the afternoon wandering through the town of Anbo, soaking in the local atmosphere and browsing the shops. I stumbled upon a small craft store where I purchased a beautiful hand-painted fan, a perfect reminder of my time on the island. As the sun began to set, I made my way to Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan for dinner. This bustling market offers a variety of local produce, seafood, and traditional dishes. I decided to try the deep-fried flying fish combo, a Yakushima specialty. The fish was crispy and flavorful, and the meal came with miso soup and rice. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself drawn to Ambar, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and extensive drink menu. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I ordered a local craft beer and settled into a comfortable seat, watching as the locals and fellow travelers mingled and chatted. The bar had a lively yet laid-back vibe, and I felt right at home. As I sipped my beer, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had had throughout the day. Yakushima had truly captured my heart, and I knew that I would carry its beauty and spirit with me long after I left.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to explore more of Yakushima's coastal wonders. My itinerary includes a visit to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, where I hope to learn more about these fascinating creatures, followed by some time relaxing on Inakahama Beach. I'm also looking forward to trying some local cuisine at Panorama for breakfast, Kamogawa Restaurant for lunch and 味徳 Ajitoku for dinner. And who knows, maybe I'll find another hidden gem along the way. Before heading back to my guesthouse, I made a mental note to grab insect repellent and a travel pillow tomorrow from Gallery KIANU, remembering my forgotten essentials.

Back at my guesthouse, I sat on the porch, gazing up at the stars and listening to the gentle sounds of the forest. It's moments like these that make traveling so special, the chance to connect with nature, to immerse myself in a new culture, and to discover new parts of myself along the way. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow would bring even more adventures in this magical place called Yakushima.

The memories of today are already etched in my mind and soul. This solo journey has truly allowed me to reflect on what is important to me, and how I can bring the peace and serenity of Yakushima back with me to Berlin.