Solo Adventure in the Lush Forests of Yakushima

Guardians of Time: Exploring Yakusugi Land

Today, I ventured deeper into the heart of Yakushima, a place where time seems to slow down, and the ancient spirits of the forest whisper secrets to those who listen. It was a day of profound connection with nature, a reminder of the enduring power and resilience of life. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth, a fragrance that grounded me and filled me with a sense of peace. It was an experience that resonated deeply, reminding me of the simple joys and profound wisdom found in the natural world.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal of grilled fish and rice, fueling up for a day of hiking. The cafe was cozy, filled with the murmur of locals and fellow travelers, all eager to explore Yakushima's natural wonders. After breakfast, I made my way to Yakusugi Land, a natural recreational forest park that promised an immersive experience among ancient cedar trees.


Explore Yakusugi Land: a UNESCO World Heritage nature preserve in Yakushima known for its ancient cedar trees and stunning hiking trails.
The drive to Yakusugi Land from Anbo was scenic, taking about 30 minutes. As I ascended, the landscape transformed, the temperature dropping slightly, and the air becoming crisper. I parked the car and paid the ¥500 entrance fee, receiving a helpful map of the various hiking trails. Yakusugi Land offers several trails, ranging from 30-minute strolls to more challenging 150-minute hikes. Given my eagerness to delve deep into the forest, I opted for the 150-minute course, with a slight detour in mind to see Daio Sugi.


Discover the ancient beauty of Daio Sugi, a remarkable nature preserve in Yakushima, showcasing towering cedar trees and rich biodiversity.
Stepping onto the trail felt like entering another world. Towering Yakusugi cedars, some over a thousand years old, lined the path, their gnarled trunks covered in vibrant green moss. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The sound of rushing water from nearby streams added to the serene atmosphere. I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and age of these trees, silent witnesses to centuries of history.

In the heart of Yakusugi Land, I felt a profound connection to the ancient rhythms of the earth, a reminder that time is but a fleeting whisper in the grand tapestry of nature.

The trail was well-maintained, a mix of wooden walkways and stone paths, making it accessible yet still retaining a sense of wilderness. I passed several uniquely named Yakusugi trees, each with its own character and story. The Buddhasugi, with its distinctive shape resembling a meditating Buddha, was particularly impressive. I paused to admire the intricate patterns of moss and lichen that adorned its bark, marveling at the delicate balance of life within this ancient ecosystem.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Yakusugi Land was the regeneration of the forest. Second-generation cedars were growing atop the stumps of felled trees, creating bizarre and beautiful shapes. This natural process, known as Daisugi in other parts of Japan, highlights the forest's resilience and ability to adapt. It was a powerful reminder of nature's cyclical nature, death giving way to new life.

I continued my hike, eventually reaching the turnoff for Daio Sugi, also known as the “Great King Cedar”. A short detour led me to this magnificent tree, estimated to be over 3,000 years old. Standing at 24.7 meters tall with a circumference of 11.1 meters, Daio Sugi was once thought to be the largest Yakusugi before the discovery of Jomon Sugi. Its sheer size and presence were awe-inspiring, a testament to the enduring power of nature. I spent a few moments in quiet contemplation, feeling dwarfed by its ancient wisdom.

After paying my respects to Daio Sugi, I made my way back to the main trail and continued my loop through Yakusugi Land. The weather remained pleasant, with occasional bursts of sunshine breaking through the clouds. The temperature was mild, perfect for hiking, though I was glad I had packed my rain gear, given Yakushima's reputation for frequent showers.

As I hiked, I reflected on the history of Yakushima and the Yakusugi cedars. During the Edo period, many of these ancient trees were felled for timber, their rot-resistant wood highly prized for roofing shingles and construction. It was a sobering thought, considering the immense age and ecological value of these trees. Thankfully, conservation efforts began in the early 20th century, and today, these giants are protected as a national treasure.

By late afternoon, I completed my hike, feeling both invigorated and humbled by the experience. Before leaving Yakusugi Land, I stopped by the Shinsen rest house, a small gift shop powered entirely by solar energy. I purchased a few cedar wood crafts as souvenirs, a tangible reminder of my time in this magical forest.

Next on the agenda was a visit to YAWARACA “The Scent of Yakushima LAB”. This shop focuses on utilizing Yakushima cedar to create aromatherapy products, emphasizing zero-waste practices. I was intrigued by their commitment to sustainability and their innovative use of cedar by-products.


Explore YAWARACA in Yakushima for exquisite home goods that celebrate local craftsmanship and the island's natural beauty.
The shop was a sensory delight, filled with the soothing aroma of cedarwood and other natural fragrances. I learned about the process of extracting essential oils from Yakushima cedar and the various health benefits associated with them. I purchased a small bottle of cedarwood essential oil, hoping to bring a piece of Yakushima's tranquility back home to Toronto.

For dinner, I decided to try DINING CAFE BAR SLOW, a local establishment known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. I ordered a seafood curry, a flavorful blend of local ingredients that perfectly captured the essence of Yakushima's culinary scene. The cafe was dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dining Cafe Bar Slow in Yakushima – where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty.
As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day I had experienced. From the ancient cedars of Yakusugi Land to the fragrant aromas of YAWARACA and the delicious flavors of DINING CAFE BAR SLOW, every moment had been a sensory delight. Yakushima had truly captured my heart, its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage leaving an indelible mark on my soul.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Ohko Waterfall and the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, eager to discover more of this island's hidden gems. I might even treat myself to a drink at Fisherman's Bar NINA in the evening. For now, I'll rest and dream of ancient forests and the whispers of the Yakusugi cedars.

It's moments like these that remind me why I started this travel blog in the first place – to share the beauty and wonder of the world with others and to inspire them to embark on their own adventures. From the Maldives to Canada, and now Japan, each journey has enriched my life in countless ways. And as I continue to explore new horizons, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to connect with different cultures and to witness the extraordinary diversity of our planet.