Solo Adventure in the Lush Forests of Yakushima

Nature's Embrace: A Day of Discovery in Yakushima

Today was a day of immersion, a deep dive into the natural wonders that make Yakushima so special. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the feeling of connection you get when you truly experience a place. As a software developer from Toronto, trading my keyboard for hiking boots feels like hitting the reset button, and I'm eager to share today's journey with you.

My morning started with a hearty breakfast at Smiley. It’s a small, unassuming place, but the food was comforting. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which fueled me up perfectly for the day’s adventures. The staff were incredibly friendly, offering local tips and even a few phrases in Japanese to help me navigate. It's these small interactions that really enrich a trip. After breakfast, I felt ready to tackle the first major attraction of the day: Ohko Waterfall.

The drive to Ohko Waterfall was scenic, winding through lush greenery that seemed to swallow the road whole. The air was thick with moisture, and the sunlight filtered through the canopy in dappled patterns. As I got closer, I could hear the roar of the waterfall, a constant, powerful hum that vibrated through the trees. The anticipation was building with every turn.

Reaching the waterfall, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The water cascaded down from a significant height, creating a misty spray that cooled the air around me. It was more than just a visual spectacle; it was an experience that engaged all my senses. The sound, the feel of the mist on my skin, the sight of the water crashing into the pool below – it was all incredibly invigorating. I spent a good hour just sitting on a nearby rock, soaking it all in and taking photographs. It was a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities to capture the power and beauty of nature. As someone who spends most of his days in front of a computer screen, moments like these are a vital reminder of the world outside, the raw, untamed beauty that exists beyond the digital realm. I thought about Aishath and Ibrahim back home, and how much they would have loved this place. I made a mental note to bring them here someday. Perhaps a family trip is in order next time, to share this experience with the people I love most.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohko Waterfall in Yakushima, a natural wonder amidst lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

After the waterfall, I headed to hiyoriya for lunch. This restaurant was a delightful surprise, serving local Yakushima cuisine with a modern twist. I tried a set meal featuring fresh seafood and locally grown vegetables, each dish a testament to the island’s rich natural resources. The flavors were subtle yet complex, a perfect reflection of the island itself. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and I enjoyed chatting with the staff about the local ingredients and their culinary traditions. As someone who enjoys cooking, I found the experience incredibly inspiring, sparking ideas for new dishes I could try back home in Toronto, perhaps incorporating some Maldivian spices to create a fusion of flavors.

In the afternoon, I visited the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, an experience that touched me deeply. As someone passionate about marine conservation, this was an opportunity to learn more about these incredible creatures and the efforts being made to protect them. The hall is a small but informative facility, with exhibits detailing the life cycle of sea turtles, the threats they face, and the conservation initiatives underway on the island. I learned about the different species of sea turtles that nest on Yakushima’s beaches, the challenges they face from habitat loss and pollution, and the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to ensure their survival. The most moving part of the visit was seeing the rescued turtles up close. There was something incredibly humbling about witnessing these ancient creatures, their eyes holding a wisdom that spanned millennia. It reinforced my commitment to sustainable living and the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. I picked up some brochures and educational materials, eager to share what I had learned with Ibrahim back home, hoping to instill in him the same sense of responsibility and stewardship towards the environment.


Discover the enchanting world of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, where conservation meets education in a beautiful island setting.

As the day wound down, I decided to check out Fisherman's Bar NINA. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar had a laid-back, local vibe, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the patrons, hearing stories about their lives on the island. I sipped on some local sake, savoring the smooth, subtle flavors, and felt a sense of connection to this place, a feeling of belonging that transcended language and culture. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with natural wonders and cultural immersion. I even managed to practice a few Japanese phrases I had learned at Smiley, much to the amusement of the locals. It’s moments like these that make traveling so rewarding, the unexpected connections and shared experiences that create lasting memories.

For dinner, I chose Kamogawa Restaurant, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine. The meal was exquisite, a multi-course affair that showcased the best of Yakushima’s culinary offerings. From the delicate sashimi to the savory grilled fish, each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was serene and inviting. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery, a chance to savor the flavors of Yakushima and reflect on the beauty of this incredible island.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Yakushima's history and culture with a visit to the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. I’m also looking forward to seeing the Sarukawa banyan tree, a natural monument that I hear is quite impressive. And, of course, I'll be making sure to sample some local gelato at Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of today, the whispers of the waterfall and the tales of the turtles, all woven into the fabric of this magical island.

This trip is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing them, connecting with them on a deeper level. It's about reminding myself of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world, and sharing that with others. As I lay here in my simple accommodation, the sounds of the island lulling me to sleep, I feel grateful for this opportunity, this chance to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Yakushima, you have captured my heart. Goodnight from this little slice of paradise.