Discovering the Enchanting Forests of Yakushima with Family

Whispers of the Ancient Forest

Today was a day of sheer natural beauty, a reminder of the incredible power and tranquility of the natural world. Yakushima continues to amaze me with its breathtaking landscapes. We embraced the island's serene atmosphere, creating memories that I know will last a lifetime. It's these moments, shared with Aishath and Ibrahim, that make our travels so special.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. As usual, I started with a strong cup of coffee, the aroma filling the air and waking me up for the adventures ahead. Aishath chose a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Ibrahim opted for some familiar pastries. It's fascinating how food can be such a great introduction to a new culture, and this market was a treasure trove of local delights. We stocked up on some snacks for our hikes, ensuring we had enough energy to explore the ancient forests and cascading waterfalls.


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

First on our itinerary was the Kigensugi Cedar. Driving through the winding mountain roads, the air grew cooler and crisper. The landscape transformed into a dense, green paradise. Reaching Kigensugi, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. This ancient tree, estimated to be around 3,000 years old, stands tall and proud, a living testament to the passage of time. It was easily accessible, which was great as it meant less walking for Ibrahim. The sheer size of the tree was humbling, and the way other plants grew from it was fascinating. I tried to capture its essence through my lens, hoping to convey its magnificence to those following our journey. The Kigensugi Cedar is truly a sight to behold, a majestic sentinel guarding the forests of Yakushima.


Discover the ancient beauty of Kigensugi Cedar in Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where nature and history intertwine.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After spending a good hour admiring Kigensugi, we made our way towards Senpiro Falls. The drive was scenic, offering glimpses of the island's rugged coastline and dense forests. The anticipation grew as we approached the falls, the sound of rushing water becoming more and more pronounced. Upon arrival, the sight was simply breathtaking. Senpiro Falls cascades down a massive granite rock face, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The sheer volume of water plummeting down was mesmerizing, and the surrounding greenery added to the scene's serene beauty. Ibrahim was particularly excited, pointing out the rainbows formed by the mist. Aishath and I took some time to simply soak in the view, appreciating the raw power and elegance of nature.


Explore the enchanting beauty of Senpiro Falls in Yakushima, where nature's splendor meets serene tranquility amidst lush greenery.

For lunch, we stopped at Kamogawa Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious and affordable meals. The reviews I had read online were spot on. The place was bustling with both locals and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the sashimi special set and some flavorful flying fish. The sashimi was incredibly fresh, and the flying fish had a unique and delightful taste. Ibrahim particularly enjoyed the giant shrimp, devouring it in minutes. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance made it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we decided to explore Gallery KIANU. It was a delightful detour from our nature-centric itinerary. Located in Miyanoura Port, the gallery showcased a variety of local pottery and artisanal crafts. I was particularly impressed by the intricate designs and the obvious craftsmanship that went into each piece. Aishath, with her keen eye for detail, admired the delicate pottery, while Ibrahim was fascinated by the unique shapes and textures of the crafts. We ended up purchasing a small, hand-painted bowl as a souvenir, a reminder of the artistic talent thriving on this island. It was fascinating to see the local artistry and craftsmanship.


Explore Gallery KIANU in Yakushima: A treasure trove of local pottery and unique artisanal crafts awaits you.

For dinner, we ventured to a heavenly kitchen, a small plant-based restaurant known for its unique and sought-after meals. The restaurant's cozy space and warm welcome made us feel right at home. The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, showcasing the local fruits and vegetables in creative ways. Aishath and I opted for the set menus, while Ibrahim enjoyed a customized dish made with fresh, local ingredients. The experience was a bit pricey, but the quality of the food and the overall ambiance made it worth it. It was a perfect end to a day filled with natural and culinary delights.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our experiences. Yakushima continues to surprise and inspire me with its unparalleled beauty and tranquility. The ancient cedar forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant local culture have left an indelible mark on our hearts. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The island's serene atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes have made this trip truly special.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Yakushima’s cultural side with a visit to the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore, followed by the Yahazudake Shrine. I'm looking forward to learning more about the island's rich heritage and traditions. And of course, we'll be trying out a new restaurant for dinner – Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, I've heard great things! Before that, we are planning to have breakfast at Panorama, and lunch at Iso no Kaori. Also, I'm thinking about visiting Fisherman's Bar NINA for a drink in the evening.

Until then, good night from Yakushima!