Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

Echoes of the Ancients

Today was a day of deep connection, a day where the whispers of ancient cedars filled my soul. Yakushima continues to amaze me with its raw, untamed beauty, and I feel incredibly privileged to be walking in the footsteps of giants. It's days like these that remind me why I picked up a camera in the first place – to capture and share the stories etched into the very fabric of our planet.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. The market was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day fueled by the island's fresh produce. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. It was the perfect way to energize myself for the day's adventures. I even grabbed a couple of onigiri for a snack later on, knowing that the trails ahead would demand sustenance. The market itself was a treasure trove of local crafts and produce, and I couldn't resist picking up a small, hand-carved Yakusugi cedar figurine as a memento. It's always nice to support local artisans and take a piece of the island's spirit home with me.


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

Fueled up and ready to go, I set off to visit the Kigensugi Cedar. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush forests and offering glimpses of the island's rugged coastline. The Kigensugi Cedar is unique because it's accessible by car, making it a must-see for those who may not be able to tackle the more strenuous hikes. As I approached the cedar, its sheer size took my breath away. Standing at an elevation of about 1200 meters, this ancient tree is estimated to be around 3000 years old. Its gnarled branches and moss-covered trunk tell a story of centuries weathered, a silent testament to the island's enduring spirit. It's incredible to think of all the seasons this tree has witnessed, all the changes it has endured. The top of the Kigensugi Cedar is dead, however it looks to be full of energy when seen from below. It coexists with many epiphytes, such as the Yakushima rhododendron and Japanese rowan, which bloom each season.


Explore the iconic Kigensugi Cedar in Yakushima, a 1,000-year-old natural marvel surrounded by stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity.

I spent a good hour simply sitting at its base, soaking in the tranquility and marveling at its resilience. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of cedar and damp earth. I closed my eyes, listening to the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant call of a bird. In that moment, I felt completely connected to the natural world, a sense of peace washing over me that I rarely experience in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I thought of Liam back home in Canmore, and how much he would have loved to share this moment with me. We often talk about the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things, and this was a perfect example of that.

From the Kigensugi Cedar, I continued my journey to Wilson's Stump. The hike to Wilson's Stump was moderately challenging, winding through dense forest and over rocky terrain. The air was thick with humidity, and the sound of rushing water echoed through the trees. As I hiked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, knowing that I was about to encounter one of Yakushima's most iconic landmarks. The path was well-maintained, but I was grateful for my hiking boots and trekking poles, which provided stability on the uneven ground.


Explore the breathtaking Wilson's Stump in Yakushima, a natural wonder showcasing the island's rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

Reaching Wilson's Stump was like stepping into another world. This massive, hollowed-out stump is the remains of a giant cedar tree that was felled centuries ago. It's named after Ernest Henry Wilson, a British botanist who documented the stump in the early 20th century. The stump is truly enormous, measuring 32 meters in circumference and 4.4 meters across at chest level. Inside, a natural spring provides fresh water, and a small shrine adds a touch of reverence to the space. If you look toward the sky at a certain angle, the stump appears to be heart shaped.

To stand inside Wilson's Stump is to stand within the heart of Yakushima, surrounded by the echoes of centuries past.

The story of Wilson's Stump is fascinating. It's believed that the tree was cut down in 1586, under the order of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, to be used in the construction of a temple in Kyoto. The fact that this ancient tree was sacrificed for such a purpose speaks to the importance of timber in Japanese history and culture. Despite its tragic past, Wilson's Stump has become a symbol of resilience and rebirth. Three small cedars are growing at the base of the stump, a phenomenon known as “stump renewal”, which refers to the growth of the next generation of cedars after a giant tree has been cut down. It's a reminder that even in the face of destruction, life finds a way to persist and flourish.

I spent a long time inside the stump, marveling at its scale and beauty. The heart-shaped view of the sky was indeed breathtaking, a perfect frame for the lush greenery surrounding it. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, but I knew that no image could truly do it justice. It's something that must be experienced firsthand, a visceral connection to nature that transcends words and pictures.

After a day of hiking and exploration, I was ready for a satisfying meal. For lunch, I stopped at Wakadaisho, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. I indulged in a sashimi platter, featuring a variety of locally caught fish. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the island's rich marine ecosystem. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I tried raw venison, fish sashimi platters, and tofu from Nagata factory. The chef even gave me extra goodies as he was creating orders. The fish was super fresh, and deer meat was good.


Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.

As evening approached, I decided to treat myself to dinner at SamPotei, a cozy restaurant known for its local cuisine. I opted for a set menu featuring Yakushima pork, a local specialty. The pork was tender and flavorful, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and vibrant. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff was attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end a long and rewarding day. I made sure to sample the smoked flying fish, a local specialty.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to Fisherman's Bar NINA for a nightcap. The bar had a laid-back vibe, with a mix of locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories. I ordered a local craft beer and chatted with the bartender about the island's fishing traditions. The bar was decorated with nautical artifacts and photographs, giving it a distinctly maritime feel. It was a great place to unwind and soak in the island's atmosphere. It is known for serving the freshest catch, this charming bar provides a unique dining experience that showcases the rich flavors of the surrounding ocean. Guests can expect dishes prepared with local ingredients, highlighting traditional Japanese cooking techniques that elevate the taste of each meal.


Experience the freshest seafood in Yakushima at Fisherman's Bar NINA, where culinary excellence meets stunning ocean views.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the echoes of the ancient cedars in my soul. Today was a day of deep connection, a day where I truly felt the spirit of Yakushima. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this magical island and to share its stories with you. Tomorrow, I plan to explore the island's waterfalls, including Ohko Waterfall and Senpiro Falls. I'm also looking forward to visiting Gallery KIANU, a local shop showcasing the island's unique art and crafts. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Yakushima!