Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima: A Solo Journey

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed spirit of Yakushima. It was a journey that took me from the winding coastal roads, where the island's wildlife roams free, to the cozy shops filled with the scent of ancient cedar. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a backpack and a one-way ticket.

The day began, as many have here, with a hearty breakfast at Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter. The name alone sets the tone, doesn't it? It's a reminder to savor every moment, every flavor, because who knows if you'll ever have this exact experience again? I fueled up with a traditional Japanese breakfast, the kind that makes you feel both satisfied and ready for anything. The weather forecast predicted a mix of sunshine and showers, typical for Yakushima in July, so I layered up and headed out, camera in hand, ready to capture whatever the day might bring.

My main objective for the day was to explore the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife. This stretch of road, also known as Seiburindo, is famous for its frequent sightings of Yakushima deer and macaques. I'd heard stories of these creatures casually strolling along the road, seemingly unfazed by human presence. As I drove, the anticipation bubbled inside me. I've always felt a deep connection to animals, and the thought of seeing them in their natural habitat, living freely on this incredible island, filled me with excitement.


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

It didn't take long before I spotted my first group of Yakushima deer. They were grazing peacefully in a meadow beside the road, their brown coats blending seamlessly with the surrounding foliage. I pulled over, turned off the engine, and watched them for a while, mesmerized by their gentle movements. They seemed curious about me, but not afraid, and I felt a sense of mutual respect between us.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about conquering mountains or crossing oceans, but about simply observing the beauty that already exists around us.

The coastal road itself was a treat to drive. The narrow, winding road snaked along the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding forests. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the crashing of the waves and the calls of the birds. It was a truly immersive experience, and I felt grateful to be able to witness such natural beauty.

For lunch, I stopped at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It might seem like an odd choice, but I'd heard they served delicious local cuisine. Plus, I figured it would be a good place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere. I ordered a set meal featuring fresh seafood and local vegetables, and it was absolutely delicious. The restaurant was bustling with travelers and locals alike, and I enjoyed listening to their conversations and observing their interactions.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine at Yakushima Airport Restaurant - where flavor meets nature's beauty.

After lunch, I decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. I headed to やくすぎ屋 (Yakusugi-ya), a shop specializing in Yakusugi (cedar) products. Yakusugi is a type of cedar that grows only on Yakushima, and it's prized for its durability, fragrance, and beautiful grain. I wanted to find a souvenir that would remind me of my time on this magical island, and I figured a Yakusugi product would be perfect.


Explore Yakusugi-ya, the charming novelty store in Yakushima, where unique treasures and local crafts await every visitor.

The shop was filled with the rich, earthy scent of cedar. There were all sorts of products on display, from small trinkets to large furniture pieces. I spent a long time browsing, admiring the craftsmanship and trying to decide what to buy. Eventually, I settled on a small wooden box, intricately carved with a scene of the Yakushima forest. It was simple, elegant, and perfectly captured the essence of the island.

As I paid for my purchase, I chatted with the shop owner, an elderly woman with a warm smile and kind eyes. She told me about the history of Yakusugi and the importance of preserving the island's natural resources. Her words resonated with me, and I felt a renewed sense of responsibility to protect this incredible place.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I decided to take a detour to Yakushima Experience. I had read online that they offer personalized tours of the island, focusing on the Yakusugi cedar trees and the local wildlife. I figured it would be a great way to learn more about the island's ecosystem and see some of the more remote areas.


Discover Yakushima's breathtaking landscapes with guided tours from Yakushima Experience, showcasing nature's wonders and rich biodiversity.

I met with Cameron, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, who tailored a half-day tour to my interests. We ventured deep into the cedar forest, where I saw trees that were thousands of years old. Cameron shared fascinating insights about the trees' growth, their role in the ecosystem, and the history of logging on the island. It was an enriching experience that deepened my appreciation for Yakushima's natural wonders.

For dinner, I decided to try hiyoriya, a local restaurant known for its innovative cuisine. I ordered a tasting menu featuring a variety of local ingredients, and each dish was a work of art. The chef clearly had a passion for food and a deep understanding of the island's culinary traditions. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiyoriya in Yakushima, where fresh local ingredients meet traditional flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.

As I walked back to my guesthouse under the starlit sky, I reflected on the day's experiences. I'd seen incredible wildlife, explored a stunning coastal road, learned about the island's unique ecosystem, and indulged in delicious local cuisine. It was a day that touched all my senses and left me feeling deeply connected to Yakushima. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, where I plan to visit the Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a natural hot spring located right on the coast, and the Isso Lighthouse. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today and drift off to sleep, dreaming of ancient cedars and mischievous macaques.

I'm also thinking about how vastly different this is from my life back in Berlin. While I miss my friends and the city's vibrant culture, I can't deny the sense of peace and fulfillment I've found here on Yakushima. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about climbing the corporate ladder or accumulating possessions, but about immersing yourself in nature and connecting with the world around you. And, perhaps, finding a really cool wooden box.

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, and Fisherman's Bar NINA, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today and drift off to sleep, dreaming of ancient cedars and mischievous macaques.