Discovering the Enchanting Forests of Yakushima with Family

Into the Emerald Heart of Yakushima

Today, Yakushima revealed another layer of its enchanting soul. Aishath, Ibrahim, and I ventured deep into the island's famed forests, where every step felt like entering a realm untouched by time. The air was thick with moisture, the scent of cedar and damp earth mingling in a symphony that only nature could compose. It was an experience that resonated with my soul, reminding me of the simple, profound beauty of my homeland, the Maldives, albeit in a completely different landscape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Smiley, a cozy little spot in Yakushima. It was a quaint cafe where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of pastries. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Malé, where the day starts with a strong coffee and warm conversation. Aishath enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Ibrahim devoured a stack of pancakes with maple syrup, a little taste of home for him here in Japan. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures.

Our first destination was the Shiratani Unsui Gorge. The drive there was an experience in itself, winding through narrow mountain roads, each turn revealing breathtaking views of the island's lush interior. The weather forecast predicted rain, and as we drove, the sky obliged, casting a mystical veil over the landscape. It felt like the island was intentionally setting the mood for our exploration.

Upon arriving at Shiratani Unsui Gorge, we were immediately enveloped in a world of green. Moss-covered rocks and ancient cedar trees created a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The forest floor was soft and springy underfoot, a carpet of emerald that seemed to stretch endlessly into the distance. Ibrahim was particularly excited, his eyes wide with wonder as he skipped ahead, eager to discover what lay around each bend in the trail. The trails were well-maintained, a testament to the care and respect the Japanese have for their natural treasures.

Explore the lush beauty of Shiratani Unsui Gorge, a scenic gem in Yakushima, featuring ancient cedar forests and stunning hiking trails.

As we hiked deeper into the gorge, the sound of rushing water grew louder, guiding us towards the Shiratani River. The river was a ribbon of crystal-clear water, cascading over rocks and swirling in pools, its melody a constant companion on our journey. We crossed several small bridges, each offering a new vantage point to admire the surrounding beauty. The air was so clean and fresh, a stark contrast to the bustling city of Toronto, where we now reside. It was a welcome change, a chance to breathe deeply and reconnect with nature.

One of the highlights of Shiratani Unsui Gorge is the moss forest, a section of the park that is said to have inspired the Studio Ghibli film, 'Princess Mononoke.' As a fan of Hayao Miyazaki's work, I was particularly excited to see this place. And it did not disappoint. The moss forest was an otherworldly realm, where every surface was covered in a thick layer of vibrant green moss. It felt like stepping into a living painting, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. Ibrahim, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by the tiny details, pointing out different types of moss and marveling at the intricate patterns they formed.

Nature's beauty is a profound reminder of the delicate balance we must strive to maintain.

After spending several hours exploring Shiratani Unsui Gorge, we made our way to our next destination: Wilson's Stump. This ancient cedar stump is another iconic landmark on Yakushima, named after the British botanist Ernest Henry Wilson, who documented it in the early 20th century. The story goes that the tree was felled in the 16th century to provide timber for a temple in Kyoto. What remains is a massive, hollow stump, large enough to walk inside.

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

The hike to Wilson's Stump was a bit more challenging than our earlier trek, with steeper inclines and more uneven terrain. But the reward was well worth the effort. As we approached the stump, its sheer size was awe-inspiring. It was hard to imagine that this was once a living tree, standing tall and proud for thousands of years. We stepped inside the stump, and the world outside seemed to fade away. The interior was cool and damp, the air thick with the scent of cedar. A small shrine had been erected inside, a testament to the reverence the locals have for this ancient giant.

Looking up through the hollow core of the stump, we saw a heart-shaped opening, a trick of perspective that has made Wilson's Stump a popular spot for photographers. I tried to capture the perfect shot, but the beauty of the scene was beyond the capabilities of my camera. It was a moment to be savored, a reminder of the enduring power of nature and the fleeting nature of our own existence.

After our hike, we were famished. We headed to Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant for lunch. I was eager to try the local specialty, flying fish, and Katagiri came highly recommended. The restaurant was small and unassuming, but the food was exceptional. Aishath and I both ordered the flying fish set, which came with a variety of grilled and fried fish, as well as rice, miso soup, and pickles. The fish was fresh and flavorful, a true taste of Yakushima. Ibrahim, who is not a fan of fish, opted for a chicken katsu set, which he devoured with gusto. It was a delightful culinary experience, a perfect complement to our day of exploration.

Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine with an Italian twist at Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant on beautiful Yakushima Island.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner at DINING CAFE BAR SLOW. The name itself was inviting, promising a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. It was located a bit further from our accommodation, but the drive was pleasant, offering glimpses of the island's coastline. The restaurant had a cozy, rustic vibe, with wooden tables and warm lighting. The menu featured a mix of Japanese and Western dishes, catering to a variety of tastes. Aishath chose a seafood pasta, while I opted for a local pork dish. Ibrahim, predictably, went for a burger. The food was excellent, and the service was friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dining Cafe Bar Slow in Yakushima – where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty.

Before heading back, we stopped by Cafe & Bar RainTree for a nightcap. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the evening. The bartender was friendly and welcoming, offering us a taste of local shochu, a type of Japanese liquor made from sweet potatoes. It was strong and potent, but surprisingly smooth. Ibrahim, of course, stuck to juice. We chatted with some of the locals, learning more about the island's history and culture. It was a great way to experience the local vibe and connect with the community.

Experience the vibrant blend of karaoke and cafe culture at Cafe & Bar RainTree in beautiful Yakushima, Japan.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's adventures. Yakushima had once again exceeded my expectations, revealing its beauty and charm in unexpected ways. The island's ancient forests, pristine rivers, and delicious cuisine had captured our hearts, leaving us with memories that we would cherish for a lifetime. I am particularly grateful for sharing this experience with Aishath and Ibrahim. Seeing the wonder in Ibrahim's eyes as he explored the forest, and sharing a quiet moment with Aishath amidst the ancient cedars, made the trip even more special.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Jōmon Sugi, the oldest and largest Yakusugi cedar on the island, and explore more of Yakushima National Park. I am excited to see what new wonders await us, and to continue sharing our journey with you all.

Until then, may your own travels be filled with beauty, adventure, and connection.

Assalamu Alaikum.