Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

A Day of Discovery and Delight

Today was a day dedicated to delving deeper into the essence of Yakushima, not just through its breathtaking landscapes, but also through its rich cultural heritage and local flavors. It’s fascinating how much you can learn about a place by immersing yourself in its history and traditions, and by tasting its unique culinary offerings.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. The cafe was conveniently located near the airport, and its stylish interior was a pleasant surprise. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. The meal was delicious, providing the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. I must admit, the stylish decor made me feel right at home, a bit like the cafes Klaus and I frequent in Heidelberg. It’s funny how a familiar aesthetic can make you feel connected, even in a place as remote as Yakushima.


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

After breakfast, I made my way to the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. The center provided a comprehensive overview of the island's unique ecosystem and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The exhibits detailed the diverse flora and fauna of Yakushima, highlighting the importance of preserving this natural treasure. I was particularly impressed by the displays showcasing the island's efforts to balance conservation with sustainable living, something that resonates deeply with my own interest in sustainable practices. It reminded me of some of the initiatives we've been exploring in Heidelberg to promote eco-friendly living.


Explore the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of Yakushima at the World Heritage Conservation Center, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

To truly appreciate a place, you must understand its past and embrace its present.

Next on my itinerary was the Yakusugi Museum, a short drive from the Conservation Center. As a horticultural consultant, I was particularly excited about this stop. The museum is dedicated to the Yakusugi cedar trees, some of which are over a thousand years old. The exhibits showcased the history of the Yakusugi and the logging industry on Yakushima. One of the highlights was a branch from the Jomon-sugi, the oldest and largest Yakusugi tree on the island. The sheer size and age of these trees are awe-inspiring, a testament to the power and resilience of nature. The museum also had a display of tools used to cut down the trees during the Edo period, offering a glimpse into the island's past.


Explore Yakusugi Museum: a gateway to Yakushima's ancient cedars and unique ecosystem, nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For lunch, I decided to try a heavenly kitchen, a small plant-based restaurant known for its innovative vegetarian dishes. The restaurant only has one table and is located in the owner's house, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. I opted for the sushi set, which featured a variety of local fruits and vegetables prepared in a creative and delicious way. The meal was accompanied by lyre music, adding to the overall ambiance. It was a truly unique dining experience, one that I won't soon forget. It reminded me of the cozy, family-run restaurants Klaus and I often seek out during our travels.


Experience the essence of Yakushima with innovative vegetarian dishes at A Heavenly Kitchen – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

In the afternoon, I visited Pukaridō, a charming shop offering a variety of local souvenirs and products. I browsed through the selection of Yakusugi handicrafts, sweets, and local liquors, eventually settling on a small wooden carving of a Yakushima deer as a memento of my trip. I also picked up a bottle of local sake to share with Klaus back in Heidelberg. The shop had a lovely atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and sharing stories about the island.


Explore Pukaridō in Yakushima for unique souvenirs and local liquors, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

For dinner, I ventured to Subarashi Indian Restaurant, a popular spot known for its authentic Indian cuisine. I ordered a vegetarian curry, specifying that I wanted it made vegan. The curry was flavorful and satisfying, a welcome change of pace after several days of Japanese cuisine. It was interesting to find such a diverse culinary offering in a place as remote as Yakushima. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere.


Discover authentic Indian flavors at Subarashi Indian Restaurant in Yakushima, where tradition meets local charm.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on all that I had experienced. From the informative exhibits at the Conservation Center and Yakusugi Museum to the delicious meals at Aqua Cafe, a heavenly kitchen and Subarashi Indian Restaurant, and the charming souvenirs at Pukaridō, it had been a day of discovery and delight. I felt like I had gained a deeper understanding of Yakushima, not just as a place of natural beauty, but also as a place of rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a unique hot spring located right on the rocky seashore, and Ohko Waterfall, another one of Yakushima's natural wonders. I'm also hoping to find some time to relax and soak in the island's serene atmosphere. I’m particularly excited about the onsen, as I’ve heard it’s only accessible during low tide, making it a truly special experience. Klaus would have loved this, he always appreciates a good hot spring!

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience this magical island. Yakushima has a way of captivating the senses and nourishing the soul, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings. I am also making a mental note to bring a portable phone charger and a Japanese phrasebook, as I realized today that I had forgotten them. It’s always the little things that can make a big difference when traveling.

Gute Nacht from Yakushima! Tomorrow, more adventures await!