Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

Island Life: Turtles, Fruits, and Nightcaps

Today was a delightful mix of marine conservation, tropical indulgence, and a taste of Yakushima's nightlife. It's amazing how much this island has to offer, from its dedication to preserving endangered species to its unique culinary experiences. Each day here brings a new appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of this special place.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. I opted for their famous omurice, and it was absolutely divine! The fluffy eggs and savory sauce were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I made sure to arrive early, as I had read that it could get crowded, and I'm glad I did, because the cafe quickly filled up. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and I even tried a side of smoked flying fish, which was a local delicacy. It had a unique, smoky flavor that I really enjoyed.


Discover Aqua Cafe in Yakushima - where exquisite local cuisine meets breathtaking nature in a cozy dining experience.

After breakfast, I headed to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. As someone deeply passionate about wildlife conservation, I was eager to learn more about the sea turtles that call Yakushima home. The hall is dedicated to educating visitors about the biology, behavior, and habitats of these magnificent creatures. It was fascinating to discover that Yakushima is a major nesting site for loggerhead and green sea turtles in the North Pacific. The displays were thoughtfully curated, with interactive exhibits and stunning photographs that captured the beauty of the marine environment. It was mating season for the turtles, which spans from May to July, and I learned that the females lay their eggs on the sandy beaches of Yakushima during this time, typically at night to avoid predators. I was particularly moved by the museum's emphasis on conservation efforts and the challenges these endangered species face. The museum showcased the life of loggerhead and green turtles, featuring adorable two-month-old baby turtles hatched on the local beach. I found myself reflecting on the importance of protecting these gentle creatures and their habitats. It was a sobering reminder of the impact human activities can have on fragile ecosystems.


Experience the beauty and conservation of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, a must-visit museum for nature lovers.

The beauty of Yakushima lies not only in its landscapes but also in its commitment to preserving the delicate balance of nature.

Next on my itinerary was a visit to the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. I was excited to immerse myself in the vibrant world of tropical fruits and plants. As I wandered through the lush, jungle-like surroundings, I was greeted by a friendly elderly gentleman who offered a tour of the garden. Although there was a bit of a language barrier, his enthusiasm and knowledge were evident as he shared interesting information about the different fruit species. The garden boasts nearly 2000 varieties of tropical plants and fruits. It was fascinating to see bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas growing in their natural environment. At the end of the tour, I was treated to a delightful fruit platter prepared by the “fruit mother”. The flavors were so fresh and vibrant, a true taste of the tropics!


Explore the lush beauty of Yakushima Fruit Garden, a tropical paradise filled with diverse fruits and stunning landscapes perfect for all ages.

For lunch, I decided to try Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan, a local market known for its delicious grilled exocet (flying fish) and sashimi. I had heard great things about their grilled exocet, so I had to try it. The fish was perfectly grilled, with a crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. I also sampled some of their sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and delicious. The market itself was bustling with activity, and I enjoyed browsing the souvenir shop and picking up a few unique mementos. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and I appreciated the opportunity to try some of Yakushima's local specialties.


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

As the day wound down, I decided to experience a bit of Yakushima's nightlife. I ventured to Ganta, a local bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive drink menu. It was a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. The bar was open from noon until 1 AM, and it attracted a diverse crowd of locals and fellow travelers. I enjoyed a couple of local brews and chatted with some of the other patrons, sharing stories and travel tips. The interior was charming and inviting, and the staff was eager to share recommendations and create a personalized experience for each visitor.


Discover Ganta, a lively bar in Yakushima offering local spirits and a warm atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I grabbed dinner at Yakushima Airport Restaurant. I was curious to see what the airport restaurant had to offer, and I was pleasantly surprised. I opted for the Yakushima udon, which came with fried yam and flying fish. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, and it was fun to watch the airplanes taking off and landing while I ate. The restaurant was small but cozy, and the staff was friendly and efficient.


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

Tomorrow marks my last day on this enchanting island, and I plan to make the most of it. My itinerary includes visits to the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse and Yakushima National Park. I'm looking forward to capturing the scenic views from the lighthouse and exploring the natural beauty of the national park. I'm also planning to stop by Wood Shop Kikori to pick up a few handcrafted souvenirs before heading to the airport. For breakfast, I'm hoping to try Michikusa, a local eatery known for its traditional Japanese breakfast sets. Lunch will be at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, where I'm eager to sample their local specialties. And for my final dinner on the island, I've made a reservation at Il Mare, an Italian restaurant that specializes in seafood dishes and local venison pasta and pizza.

As I reflect on my time here, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural wonders and cultural richness of Yakushima. This island has truly captured my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore its hidden corners and reconnect with its serene beauty. The memories I've made here will stay with me long after I've left, a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's precious ecosystems and embracing the unique cultures that make our world so vibrant and diverse.

It's been a day of turtles, fruits, and nightcaps – a perfect representation of the diverse experiences Yakushima has to offer. As I prepare for my final day on this magical island, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead.

I'm definitely going to miss this place.

I'm already looking forward to sharing my final Yakushima reflections with you all tomorrow!

Until then, happy travels!