Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima: A Solo Adventure

A Day of Coastal Charms

Today's adventure was all about embracing the coastal side of Yakushima. It was a day filled with fascinating marine life, exotic fruits, and the kind of laid-back island vibes that make you forget all about the hustle and bustle of city life. After six days of exploring Yakushima, I am starting to settle into island life, and I must admit, I am enjoying it.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at Panorama. I enjoyed the mix of local and Western options. It's always a treat to fuel up with a good meal before heading out for the day's explorations. The restaurant is located in the center of Miyanoura, and the atmosphere was inviting. I grabbed a window seat to enjoy the morning views before I set out for the day. I made sure to make a reservation for dinner there as well, as it seems to be a popular spot.

Meeting the Locals at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall

My first stop was the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. As someone deeply concerned about environmental issues, I was eager to learn more about these incredible creatures and the conservation efforts in place. The hall is dedicated to educating visitors about the life cycle and conservation of sea turtles, particularly the loggerhead and green turtles that frequent Yakushima's shores. I spent a couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, reading about the turtles' nesting habits, the threats they face, and the ongoing research to protect them.

Witnessing the dedication to preserving these ancient mariners was both humbling and inspiring.

The highlight was seeing the adorable baby turtles hatched on a local beach. It's incredible to think that these tiny creatures, barely bigger than my palm, will one day navigate the vast ocean. The experience left me with a renewed sense of responsibility to protect our planet's delicate ecosystems. I learned that nesting season had just begun for the loggerhead sea turtles. The beach was beautiful, but it was sad to see trash scattered along the shore.


Discover the enchanting world of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, where conservation meets education in a beautiful island setting.

A Tropical Escape at Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”

Next on the agenda was a visit to the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. After the enriching experience at the Sea Turtle Hall, a change of pace was welcome. The garden cultivates nearly 2,000 varieties of tropical plants and fruits. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped in a sweet, fragrant air, a mix of exotic blooms and ripening fruits. It was a feast for the senses, a vibrant contrast to the cedar forests I had been exploring.
I wandered through the garden, marveling at the sight of bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas growing in abundance. It was fascinating to see these fruits in their natural habitat, a far cry from the neatly arranged displays in the supermarkets of Leipzig. I sampled a few of the freshly picked fruits, each bite bursting with flavor. The tankan citrus juice was particularly refreshing, a perfect complement to the warm, humid air. I picked up a few jars of handmade jam, including a Japanese plum variety, as souvenirs for Hans and Kati. I know they'll appreciate a taste of Yakushima's tropical bounty.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of Yakushima Fruit Garden, a tropical paradise showcasing exotic fruits and lush botanical wonders.

Savoring Local Flavors

For lunch, I headed to Iso no Kaori, a well-regarded sushi and sashimi restaurant. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and I was eager to try some local specialties. Luckily, I had made a reservation, as it seems to be a popular spot. I opted for the local fish set, a colorful assortment of sashimi that showcased the island's diverse marine life. The staff was friendly and explained each type of fish, adding to the experience. The tuna was incredibly tender, and the flying fish was a delightful surprise.
After a satisfying lunch, I took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Anbo, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. I popped into a few local shops, admiring the intricate Yakushima cedar crafts. It's amazing how the islanders have found so many creative ways to utilize this precious resource. I resisted the urge to buy more souvenirs, reminding myself that I still have a few days left on the island.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Iso no Kaori in Yakushima - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.

Evening Reflections and Tomorrow's Plans

As evening approached, I made my way back to Miyanoura for dinner at Panorama. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and travelers alike. I ordered a few small plates, izakaya-style, to sample a variety of dishes. The food was delicious, and the local craft beer was a perfect accompaniment. I struck up a conversation with a couple from Tokyo, sharing stories of our travels and experiences on Yakushima. It's moments like these that make solo travel so rewarding, the chance to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
To cap off the evening, I ventured to Fisherman's Bar NINA. It was a cozy spot, and I enjoyed a nightcap while chatting with the friendly bartender. The bar had a unique charm, with nautical-themed decor and a relaxed vibe. I learned that the opening times often depend on the fishing conditions, adding to its authenticity.
Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a moment to reflect on the day's adventures. From the captivating sea turtles to the vibrant tropical fruits, Yakushima continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, and where the simple pleasures of life are celebrated. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to visit the Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a unique hot spring on the coast, and the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse.
As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Yakushima has a way of getting under your skin, of reminding you of the beauty and fragility of our world. It's a place I know I'll carry with me long after I've left its shores.