Enchanting Yakushima: A Journey into Japan's Ancient Forests
Day 10: Ancient Cedars and Coastal Shrines: Discovering Yakushima's Hidden Gems
Explore Yakushima's majestic Daio Sugi and serene Yahazudake Shrine. A day of ancient wonders, cultural immersion, and delightful local flavors.
Whispers of the Ancients
Today was a day of profound connection with Yakushima's ancient soul. From the towering presence of the Daio Sugi to the tranquil shores of Yahazudake Shrine, every moment felt like stepping deeper into a world where nature and spirit intertwine. It was a day of quiet reflection and appreciation for the enduring beauty of this remarkable island.
Discover the ancient beauty of Daio Sugi, a remarkable nature preserve in Yakushima, showcasing towering cedar trees and rich biodiversity.
Our day began early, with a quick and convenient breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It's funny, I always find something charming about airport restaurants, perhaps it's the mix of anticipation and farewells hanging in the air. This one had a wonderfully old-school vibe, reminiscent of traditional soba shops, which I found quite comforting before a day of exploration. David enjoyed a hearty bowl of udon, while I opted for a simple but satisfying onigiri set. Fuelled up, we set off to find the majestic Daio Sugi.
The trail to Daio Sugi was an adventure in itself, winding through the lush, verdant forest that Yakushima is famous for. The air was thick with moisture, and the scent of cedar filled our lungs. As we walked, I couldn't help but think about Emily and how much she would have loved this. She always had a deep appreciation for nature, and I know she would have been in awe of the ancient trees surrounding us. I made a mental note to send her some photos and encourage her to visit Yakushima someday.
Finally, we arrived at the Daio Sugi, also known as the Great King Cedar. And what a sight it was! This ancient giant, estimated to be around 3,000 years old, stood tall and proud, its massive trunk a testament to the passage of time. Before the discovery of the Jomon Sugi, Daio Sugi was believed to be the largest Yakusugi on the island. Standing at the base of this magnificent tree, I felt a sense of humility and wonder. It was a humbling experience to be in the presence of something so old and so grand.
To walk among giants is to understand the true meaning of time and the enduring power of nature.
Unlike the Jomon Sugi, which can only be viewed from an observation deck, we were able to get up close to the Daio Sugi, which made the experience even more special. I ran my hand along its rough bark, feeling the deep grooves and ridges that told stories of centuries past. It was a truly unforgettable moment.
After spending some time with the Great King, we made our way back down the trail, our hearts full of awe and gratitude. It was time for lunch, and we were both looking forward to trying some local cuisine. We headed to Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan, a local market and restaurant that promised an authentic taste of Yakushima. The market was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike browsing the various stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and local crafts. We decided to have lunch at the restaurant, where we sampled some delicious grilled flying fish, a Yakushima specialty. David, ever the adventurous one, also tried some local sashimi, which he declared to be incredibly fresh and flavorful.
Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to our next destination: Yahazudake Shrine. This picturesque shrine is located right on the coast, and I had seen some photos of its iconic red torii gate that I was eager to see in person. The drive to the shrine was scenic, winding along the coastline with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. As we approached the shrine, I could feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. The air was fresh and clean, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was soothing.
The red torii gate of Yahazudake Shrine stands in front of a vast cave, which is believed to be home to the gods of fishing and marriage. The contrast between the bright red gate and the dark, mysterious cave was striking. We walked through the torii gate and down a set of stairs that led into the cave. Inside, the atmosphere was cool and damp, and the sound of dripping water echoed through the cavern. It felt like stepping into another world, a sacred space where the veil between the earthly and the divine was thin.
Experience the spiritual serenity of Yahazudake Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by Yakushima's lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
I read that some people find the entrance to this remote shrine to be one of the most beautiful spots on the island, and I must agree. The authentic red torii sits majestically against a backdrop where the blue of the Pacific Ocean meets the sky, blending with the autumn leaves of the mountains. It truly feels like stumbling into the lair of a nature deity. The shrine itself was small and simple, but it exuded a sense of peace and reverence. We took some time to offer our prayers and reflect on the beauty of the natural world surrounding us. I thought about my mother and the values she instilled in me, and I felt grateful for the opportunities I've had to experience such incredible places.
As we left the shrine, I couldn't resist taking a few more photos of the torii gate and the stunning coastal scenery. The combination of natural beauty and spiritual significance made this place truly special.
With the day drawing to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to some gelato at Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi. I had read about this place online, and it sounded like the perfect way to end our day of exploration. The gelato shop is located in Mugiio, and it offers a variety of flavors made from local ingredients. I opted for a scoop of guava gelato, while David chose the passionfruit flavor. Both were absolutely delicious, creamy and refreshing, with just the right amount of sweetness. I particularly enjoyed the unique texture of the gelato, and the flavors were bursting with tropical goodness. Sipping my coffee and enjoying the gelato, I felt a deep sense of contentment. It had been a day of incredible experiences, and I was grateful for the opportunity to share it with David.
Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.
As we savored our gelato, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow, our last day on Yakushima. We're planning to visit the Sunset Hill Observation Deck for a final panoramic view of the island, and then explore the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore to learn more about the island's rich cultural heritage. We'll have breakfast at Aqua Cafe, lunch at Kotobuki, and a farewell dinner at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. And, if we have time, we might even check out Fisherman's Bar NINA for a nightcap. It's hard to believe our trip is coming to an end. This island has captured my heart in a way I never expected. Its ancient forests, stunning coastline, and warm, welcoming people have left an indelible mark on my soul.
We drove back to our ryokan as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. I felt a pang of sadness knowing that our time in Yakushima was coming to an end, but I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the memories we had made. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, embracing new experiences, and cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. As I drifted off to sleep, I whispered a silent thank you to Yakushima, the island that had given us so much.
Tomorrow marks the end of our journey here, but I know that the spirit of Yakushima will stay with us long after we've left its shores. We plan to soak in every last moment, starting with breakfast at Aqua Cafe and a visit to the Sunset Hill Observation Deck for a final, breathtaking view. Then, we'll immerse ourselves in the local history at the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore, savor a farewell lunch at Kotobuki, and indulge in a final dinner at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. Perhaps we'll even raise a glass at Fisherman's Bar NINA to celebrate the incredible adventure we've shared. As we prepare to leave this enchanting island, I'm already dreaming of our return. I have a feeling that Yakushima will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Go to day 9
Discovering Yakushima's Hidden Gems: Waterfalls, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Go to day 11
Farewell, Yakushima: Reflecting on an Island Paradise
Enchanting Yakushima: A Journey into Japan's Ancient Forests
View full trip
Explore the mystical cedar forests of Yakushima, Japan, with Mei and David on an 11-day adventure into nature's beauty and cultural authenticity.
Meet this Featured Explorer
Mei Wong
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Occupation:
Freelance Cantonese Translator and Travel Blogger
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Country:
Canada
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Age:
50
你好 (Nǐ hǎo)! I'm Mei Wong, a translator by trade and a traveler at heart. Born in Hong Kong and now living in Canada, I've spent the last 25 years exploring the world, one culture at a time. My blog is a space where I share my adventures, offering insights into the places I visit, the people I meet, and the delicious food I discover along the way. I hope to inspire you to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and see the world with fresh eyes. Join me as I uncover the beauty and diversity of our planet!
Interests:
- Cultural Anthropology
- Linguistics
- Sustainable Tourism
- Photography
- Cantonese Opera
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