Solo Adventure: Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Yakushima

A Blend of Ancient Giants and Tropical Flavors

Today was all about experiencing the diverse offerings of Yakushima, from its ancient forests to its vibrant fruit gardens. I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to immerse myself in the island's natural beauty and local culture. I was looking forward to a day of exploration, and Yakushima certainly didn't disappoint.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at a heavenly kitchen. It's a cozy little place, and I managed to snag the only table in the house. The food was heavenly indeed, with a focus on local fruits and vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I savored every bite, appreciating the simple, fresh flavors that Yakushima had to offer. It reminded me of Olivia's cooking back home in Hawthorne – always fresh, always delicious. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes for her and Ethan when I got back.

With a full stomach, I headed towards my first destination: Yakushima Fruit Garden, also known as “Papaya no Sato”. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering glimpses of the island's stunning landscapes. When I arrived, I was greeted by a local man who seemed to be the owner of the garden. He took me on a quick tour, pointing out various tropical fruits and plants. The garden was filled with species from all over the world, creating a unique tropical ambiance. It felt a bit rushed, but I appreciated the chance to see so many different kinds of plants. I learned about fruits I had never even heard of before, and the air was filled with sweet, exotic scents.


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

The essence of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, embracing the unexpected, and finding joy in the simple moments.

At the end of the tour, I was presented with a small fruit platter. The fruits were incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the garden's dedication to quality. It was a delightful experience, and I would recommend it to anyone visiting Yakushima. It reminded me a bit of the community gardens back in Show Low, where I grew up. There's something special about seeing where your food comes from and appreciating the hard work that goes into growing it.

Next on my itinerary was the Kigensugi Cedar. This ancient tree is one of the largest and most accessible Yakusugi cedars on the island. The drive to Kigensugi was beautiful, taking me further into Yakushima's mountainous interior. When I arrived, I was immediately struck by the tree's massive size and presence. It's estimated to be over 3,000 years old, and you could feel the weight of history as you stood in its shadow. The upper part of the tree is withered, but the lower part is full of life, covered in moss and other plants. It was an inspiring sight, a symbol of resilience and endurance. It was easily accessible by car, which was a welcome change after some of the more challenging hikes I’ve been on this trip. I took some time to simply sit and admire the tree, reflecting on the long history it has witnessed.


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

For lunch, I stopped at Kotobuki. This restaurant is known for its regional and seasonal cooking, and I was eager to try some local specialties. I decided on a flying fish set menu, which was delicious. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the set came with a variety of side dishes that were equally tasty. The owner was friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. It was a great opportunity to immerse myself in Yakushima's culinary scene. I even managed to pick up a few Japanese phrases from the friendly staff, adding another layer to my cultural experience.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and delightful sweets at Kotobuki in Yakushima—where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

As the day wound down, I decided to check out Gaspoint, a local bar. It was a laid-back spot, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. I ordered a local beer and struck up a conversation with some of the other patrons. They were friendly and welcoming, eager to share their stories and recommendations for things to see and do on the island. It was a great way to connect with the local community and get a sense of Yakushima's unique culture. I learned about some hidden gems that weren't in my guidebook, which I added to my list for future explorations. It reminded me of the pubs back in Hawthorne, where you could always find a friendly face and a good conversation.


Experience the cozy charm of Gaspoint, Yakushima's beloved café and bar, offering homemade curry and an extensive beverage selection.

For dinner, I headed to Smiley, a cozy little cafe overlooking the harbor of Anbo. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal while watching the sunset over the water. The atmosphere was relaxed and peaceful, the perfect way to end a busy day. It was a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had had throughout the day. Yakushima had exceeded my expectations, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture.


Discover the cozy Smiley Café in Yakushima – where exceptional coffee meets delicious cakes and sandwiches in a warm atmosphere.

Tomorrow is my last day on Yakushima, and I plan to make the most of it. I'm going to visit Ohko Waterfall and Yakushima National Park. I also plan to visit Tomari Book Store to grab a book before heading back to Hawthorne. I’m looking forward to seeing more of the island's stunning landscapes and soaking up its peaceful atmosphere.

As I reflect on my time here, I realize that Yakushima is more than just a beautiful island. It's a place where you can connect with nature, immerse yourself in local culture, and find a sense of peace and tranquility. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left. I know I’ll be back someday, perhaps with Olivia and Ethan in tow, to share this incredible experience with them. Until then, I’ll carry the memories of Yakushima with me, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.