Solo Adventure in the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

Guardians of the Island: Sea Turtles and Botanical Bliss

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a welcome change of pace after the more strenuous hikes of the past week. I decided to dedicate my time to some of Yakushima's more laid-back attractions, focusing on the island's natural beauty and conservation efforts. It’s amazing how much variety this island holds, from ancient forests to vibrant marine life.

My day began with a quick and convenient breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. Since I was planning to head towards the coast, grabbing a bite here saved me some time. It's a humble place, but it offers a decent selection of local dishes to start the day. I had a simple set meal of grilled fish, rice, and miso soup – a comforting way to fuel up before heading out.

First on the agenda was the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. I’ve always been fascinated by these creatures, and knowing that Yakushima is a significant nesting site for them made this a must-visit. The hall is located in Miyanoura, making it easily accessible.

The Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall isn't a sprawling complex, but it’s packed with information and passion. The exhibits detail the life cycle of sea turtles, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. What struck me most was the dedication of the staff. You could tell they genuinely cared about these animals and were eager to share their knowledge. I learned about the different species that nest on Yakushima's beaches, particularly the loggerhead turtles, and the challenges they face due to habitat loss and pollution.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

The highlight was seeing the baby turtles. They were tiny, fragile creatures, but full of life. It was heartwarming to know that the Sea Turtle Hall plays a crucial role in ensuring their survival. The hall also organizes sea turtle observing tours on Nagata Beach during the nesting season, which runs from May to July. Though I’m a bit late in the season for that, it’s definitely something I’d consider if I ever return.

After immersing myself in the world of sea turtles, I decided to explore the Yakushima Botanic Gardens. Located near Miyanoura, the gardens offer a tranquil escape into the island's lush flora. With over 1900 species and subspecies of plants across the island, Yakushima boasts an astounding range of greenery, and the botanical garden showcases a vast selection of local plants.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima's Botanic Gardens, a lush sanctuary of biodiversity and tranquility in Japan's natural wonderland.

The gardens are beautifully maintained, with winding paths leading through various habitats. I spent a pleasant couple of hours wandering among the vibrant blooms, towering trees, and tranquil ponds. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. It was a welcome contrast to the rugged landscapes I’d been hiking through, offering a different perspective on Yakushima's natural beauty.

I was particularly impressed by the collection of mosses and ferns. Yakushima is home to over 600 species of moss and 300 varieties of ferns, and the gardens displayed a stunning array of these plants. The Japanese plant art, with moss arranged to cover the earth of some plants creating stunning natural examples of “nerai”, “kokedama” and “kusamono”, was especially fascinating.

By late afternoon, I felt a craving for something sweet. Remembering a recommendation I’d seen online, I headed to Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi. Located above the village of Nakama, this gelato shop is known for its unique flavors made from local ingredients.


Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.

Finding the place was a bit of an adventure in itself, but the gelato was well worth the effort. I tried a couple of different flavors: Tankan orange and sea salt. The Tankan orange was zesty and refreshing, while the sea salt had a subtle, savory note that perfectly complemented the sweetness. It was the perfect way to cool down after a day of exploring. I opted for the edible rice cup, adding a fun, sustainable touch to the treat.

Before heading back to my accommodation, I stopped by a local shop to pick up a few essentials. I realized I’d completely forgotten to buy insect repellent before leaving Germany, and the mosquitoes here are relentless. I also grabbed an extra memory card for my camera – I’m constantly running out of space with all the photos I’ve been taking.

For dinner, I decided to try Wakadaisho, a sushi restaurant in Miyanoura. The restaurant is known for using fresh, local seafood, and I was eager to sample some of Yakushima's culinary offerings. The cozy interior and friendly staff made for a welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a selection of sushi and sashimi, and everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was a delicious end to a day of gentle exploration.


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

Tomorrow, I’m planning to visit the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. I’m looking forward to seeing the tropical plants and fruits that thrive on the island. I also want to check out Ryujin Sugi, another impressive cedar tree. I’ll probably grab breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan before heading out. In the evening, I might check out Cafe＆Bar RainTree for a relaxing drink.

As I reflect on today, I’m struck by the diversity of experiences Yakushima offers. It’s not just about challenging hikes and ancient trees; it’s also about appreciating the smaller wonders of nature and supporting local communities. Days like today remind me why I love to travel – to discover new perspectives, connect with nature, and savor the simple joys of life.

The internet connection at my guesthouse is a bit patchy tonight, so I'm uploading this entry now while I have a decent signal. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!