Solo Adventure in the Lush Forests of Yakushima

A Fond Farewell to Yakushima

As my solo journey in Yakushima draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a touch of melancholy. This island has offered me a unique blend of natural wonders and serene solitude, a perfect escape from the hectic pace of city life back in Toronto. Today, I wanted to soak in the last moments, reflecting on the experiences and the profound sense of peace I've found here.

My final day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. The cafe is located near a pool and open from 11 AM to 6 PM daily. I savored a simple yet satisfying meal, fueling up for a day of exploration and contemplation. The plan was to visit the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center and then take a leisurely drive along the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife, hoping to catch a glimpse of the island's famed wildlife.

The Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center was my first stop. Located a short walk from Miyanoura Port, the center serves as an excellent introduction to the island's ecology and history. I spent a considerable amount of time exploring the exhibits, which detailed the unique biodiversity of Yakushima, from its ancient cedar forests to its diverse marine life. The center also highlighted the island's cultural heritage, showcasing artifacts and information about the people who have called Yakushima home for centuries.


Explore the vibrant ecosystem and rich culture of Yakushima at the Environmental and Cultural Village Center, your gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the highlights was the large theater, where I watched a panoramic movie featuring stunning footage of Yakushima's landscapes. Although the commentary was in Japanese, the visuals spoke volumes, conveying the raw beauty and unspoiled nature of the island. I learned about the island's impressive mountains, which rise to nearly 2,000 meters, and the unique ecosystem that supports a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Nature itself is not a theme park. It is a fragile ecosystem built over generations, and we are a part of it.

After immersing myself in the cultural center, I set off on my next adventure: a drive along the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife. This scenic route, also known as Seibu Rindo, is the only road that runs through Yakushima's World Heritage site. As I started my drive, the overhanging trees formed a green tunnel, creating a sense of being enveloped by nature.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima's World Heritage Coastal Road, a scenic journey through nature's wonders and diverse wildlife.

The road was narrow and winding, demanding careful navigation. However, the stunning views more than compensated for the challenging drive. The rocky coastline stretched out before me, with the vast expanse of the ocean meeting the lush greenery of the island. Observation towers along the route offered panoramic views of the coastline and the distant islands, providing perfect spots to stop and soak in the scenery.

As I continued my drive, I kept my eyes peeled for the wildlife that Yakushima is famous for. It wasn't long before I spotted a troop of Yakushima macaques, casually lounging by the roadside. These monkeys, a subspecies of Japanese macaques, are unique to the island and have grown accustomed to the presence of humans. I watched them from a respectful distance, marveling at their playful interactions and their adaptation to their environment.

Further along the road, I encountered a group of Yakushima deer, grazing peacefully in a meadow. These deer, also a subspecies unique to the island, are smaller and darker than their mainland counterparts. They seemed unfazed by my presence, allowing me to observe them up close as they foraged for food. It was a truly special experience, witnessing these animals in their natural habitat.

I made sure to maintain a respectful distance from the animals, remembering the importance of not interfering with their natural behavior. Feeding them is strictly prohibited, as it can disrupt their feeding habits and make them dependent on humans. Instead, I simply observed and appreciated their presence, grateful for the opportunity to witness Yakushima's wildlife in its full glory.

For lunch, I decided to try Kamogawa Restaurant in Anbo. This no-frills eatery is known for serving local dishes and traditional Japanese fare, offering a taste of authentic Yakushima cuisine. I opted for a set menu featuring flying fish, a local specialty. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the meal provided a satisfying glimpse into the island's culinary traditions. Kamogawa also offers bento boxes, wrapped in bamboo leaves, for hikers.


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

In the late afternoon, I made a stop at YAKUSHIMA BLESS, a concept shop in Anbo that focuses on sustainable economic activities using the island's natural resources, particularly the Yakusugi Cedar. The shop features minimalist and beautiful home decor items, all crafted from the fragrant cedar wood. I admired the craftsmanship and the shop's commitment to environmental responsibility.


Explore Yakushima Bless: A vibrant shopping mall showcasing local artistry, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs from the beautiful island of Yakushima.

I ended up purchasing a small cedar woodblock print postcard featuring the Jomon Sugi, as a memento of my trip. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, sharing insights into the island's culture and the shop's mission. It was a perfect way to support local artisans and take a piece of Yakushima's natural beauty back home with me.

For my final dinner on the island, I chose Wakadaisho in Miyanoura. This cozy izakaya-style restaurant is known for serving fresh local fish caught from their own fishing boats. I savored a selection of sushi and sashimi, enjoying the flavors of the ocean and the warm hospitality of the staff. It was the perfect way to celebrate my time in Yakushima, surrounded by good food and friendly faces.


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

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and the sense of peace I have found on this magical island. Yakushima has offered me a chance to reconnect with nature, to explore my own solitude, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the world around me. It's a place I know I will carry with me always, a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage and embracing the spirit of adventure.

Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Kagoshima, and then making my way back to Tokyo before my flight to Toronto. While I am excited to see my wife, Aishath, and son, Ibrahim, I will miss the tranquility and beauty of Yakushima. This solo trip has been a rejuvenating experience, one that I will cherish for years to come. I hope to return someday, perhaps with my family, to share the wonders of this incredible island with them.

Before I conclude this blog post, I wanted to share a thought that has been on my mind throughout my trip: Yakushima is not just a destination; it's a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and humanity. It's a place where we can learn to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. As I leave this island, I carry with me a renewed sense of responsibility and a commitment to living a more sustainable and mindful life.

Thank you, Yakushima, for the memories and the lessons. Until we meet again.