Solo Exploration of Yakushima's Natural Wonders

Beacon of Light and Ancient Giants

Today was a day of contrasts, from the bright, open expanse of the coast to the hushed, verdant depths of the ancient cedar forests. It’s amazing how much diversity this island holds, and I felt a deep sense of connection to both the land and the sea. It’s days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo adventure in the first place – to discover the hidden corners of our world and to find a bit of myself in the process.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It’s funny how airport food can sometimes be a hit or miss, but this was a delightful surprise. I enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables – the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Fuelled up, I set off to my first destination: the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse.


Explore the breathtaking Yakushima-todai Lighthouse, a stunning landmark surrounded by the natural beauty of Yakushima Island, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The drive to the lighthouse was beautiful, winding along the coast with glimpses of the turquoise sea. As I approached the lighthouse, I could hear the waves crashing against the rocky shore. The Yakushima-todai Lighthouse stands proudly on Cape Nagata, a beacon of maritime safety since 1897. Although the lighthouse itself is unmanned and not open to the public, the views from the surrounding area were simply breathtaking. To my right, I could vaguely make out the Mishima Islands and the Kyushu mainland, and to my left, the Tokara Islands. I spent some time simply breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in the panoramic views. It was a moment of pure serenity, a perfect reminder of the vastness and beauty of our planet.

Standing at the edge of the island, gazing out at the endless ocean, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a reminder that even in our fast-paced world, there are still places where nature reigns supreme.

Leaving the coast behind, I ventured inland towards the heart of Yakushima’s ancient cedar forests. My destination was the Sandaisugi Cedar, a remarkable example of nature's resilience and regeneration.


Explore the ancient beauty of Sandaisugi Cedar, a serene nature preserve in Yakushima, renowned for its majestic cedar trees and rich biodiversity.
The name 'Sandaisugi' means 'three generations of cedars,' and this particular tree is exactly that: a third-generation cedar growing from the stump of its ancestors.

The hike to Sandaisugi was an experience in itself. The trail wound through a lush, green forest, with sunlight filtering through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and moss, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. It felt like stepping into another world, a world where time moved at a different pace. I made sure to wear my hiking boots, as suggested in my pre-trip essentials, and I was grateful for the rain gear, as there was a light drizzle that added to the forest's mystical ambiance. Though I missed having bug spray, I didn't encounter too many insects, thankfully.

As I approached the Sandaisugi Cedar, I was struck by its sheer size and presence. This ancient tree has been passing on life for over 3,000 years, a testament to the enduring power of nature. The first generation of the cedar fell after an estimated 2,000 years, and the second generation, which sprouted on the fallen trunk, lived for another 1,000 years. The third generation, the one standing before me, is several hundred years old and still thriving. It was a humbling experience to stand in the presence of such an ancient being, feeling a connection to the generations of trees that came before.

After spending some time in quiet contemplation at the Sandaisugi Cedar, I made my way back down the trail, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by the forest's tranquility. It was time for lunch, and I was eager to sample some of Yakushima’s local cuisine. I headed to the Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan, a local market and restaurant.


Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.
This bustling spot is a treasure trove of local flavors and souvenirs. I decided on the deep-fried flying fish combo, a Yakushima specialty. The fish was perfectly crispy and flavorful, and the miso soup had a unique, savory taste. It was a delicious and satisfying meal, and I enjoyed browsing the market afterwards, picking up a few local snacks to take back to Berlin.

In the late afternoon, I indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Gallery KIANU.


Explore Gallery KIANU in Yakushima: A treasure trove of local pottery and unique artisanal crafts awaits you.
I was looking for a special memento of my trip, something that would remind me of Yakushima’s unique beauty and spirit. The gallery had a beautiful collection of local crafts, from pottery to woodwork to textiles. I finally settled on a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl depicting a scene from the cedar forest. It was the perfect reminder of my time on this magical island.

As evening approached, I made my way to At Pesca（アット ペスカ） for dinner.


Experience fast food like never before at At Pesca in Yakushima – where local flavors meet quick service in a delightful setting.
This restaurant, with its island beach decor, was a delightful surprise. I opted for one of their fresh bentos, filled with local delicacies. The tempura was light and crispy, and the momo chicken with teriyaki sauce was simply divine. The staff were incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home.

Tomorrow marks the last day of my solo adventure on Yakushima. It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown by. I’m planning to visit Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park, known for its unique banyan trees, and the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center, where I hope to learn more about the island's conservation efforts. For dinner, I'm thinking of trying Il Mare, a restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine with a local twist. And perhaps, if the mood strikes, I'll end the evening at Cafe＆Bar RainTree for a final taste of Yakushima nightlife. As my time here draws to a close, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences I’ve had and the connections I’ve made. Yakushima has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. I know I’ll be carrying a piece of this island with me, wherever I go.

Until tomorrow, farewell from this enchanting island!