Solo Adventure in the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

Reaching for the Sky on Yakushima

Today was all about challenging myself and soaking in the raw, untamed beauty of Yakushima. I set out to conquer Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, and explore the island's stunning coastal road. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, encounters with local wildlife, and a deep sense of accomplishment.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and ancient cedar forests of Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, a treasure for nature enthusiasts.

My day started early with a quick breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. I grabbed a simple meal to fuel up before heading to the trailhead. It's conveniently located, and I wanted to get an early start to maximize my time on the mountain. The restaurant had a decent selection of local options, and it was a good way to get a taste of Yakushima before diving into my hike.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine at Yakushima Airport Restaurant - where flavor meets nature's beauty.

After breakfast, I made my way towards the Yodogawa Trailhead, the most popular route for climbing Mt. Miyanoura. The weather in Yakushima in July can be unpredictable, with high temperatures and a good chance of rain. Thankfully, today was relatively clear, with the sun peeking through the clouds, offering glimpses of the stunning landscape. The humidity was noticeable, though, making the climb a bit more challenging.

The Yodogawa trail is known for being the most accessible route for a day trip to the summit. As I started my ascent, I was immediately enveloped in the lush, green forest. The trail was well-maintained, but still had a wild, natural feel to it. The initial part of the hike was a gentle climb, following the Yodogawa River. The sound of the rushing water was incredibly soothing, and the moss-covered rocks and trees created a magical atmosphere.

The higher I climbed, the more I felt connected to the ancient spirit of Yakushima, a place where nature reigns supreme.

The real climb began after passing the Yodogawa Hut. The trail became steeper, and I had to navigate over rocks and roots. The air was noticeably cooler, and the vegetation started to change. I passed through the Hana-no-ego Marshland, Japan's southernmost high-altitude marsh. It was a surreal landscape, with open, grassy areas surrounded by the towering peaks. I took a moment to catch my breath and soak in the panoramic views.

As I continued my ascent, the trail became more challenging, with some rocky sections that required a bit of scrambling. There were even a few rope sections to help with the steeper parts. Despite the difficulty, the views were more than worth it. I could see across the island, with the coastline stretching out in the distance.

Finally, after hours of hiking, I reached the summit of Mt. Miyanoura. Standing at 1,936 meters, it's the highest point in Kyushu. The sense of accomplishment was incredible. The views from the top were simply breathtaking. I could see the surrounding mountains, the coastline, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. I spent some time at the summit, taking photos and enjoying the well-deserved rest. Despite the effort, reaching the top was an experience I will never forget.

The descent was tough on the knees, but I took my time and enjoyed the changing scenery. I made it back to the trailhead in the late afternoon, feeling exhausted but incredibly fulfilled. I thought of Greta and how much she would have loved this hike. It's the kind of adventure we both crave, and I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

After the invigorating hike, I decided to explore the World Heritage Listed Coastal Road with Wildlife. I drove along the winding road, enjoying the stunning ocean views and the rugged coastline. The road itself is quite narrow in sections, requiring careful driving. The road winds through a Special Protection Zone, so it is important to respect the local environment.


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

The coastal road is known for its wildlife, and I wasn't disappointed. I encountered several Yakushima deer and monkeys along the way. They seemed quite accustomed to the presence of humans, but I made sure to keep a respectful distance. It's important not to feed the animals and to observe them from afar. Seeing these creatures in their natural habitat was a truly special experience.

For lunch, I stopped at Kamogawa Restaurant in Anbo. This restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike, and it's known for its fresh seafood and traditional Japanese dishes. I decided to try the flying fish set meal, a local specialty. The fish was delicious, and the set came with a variety of other dishes, giving me a good taste of Yakushima cuisine. The restaurant had a friendly, no-frills atmosphere, and it was a great place to relax and refuel after my hike.


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

As evening approached, I decided to treat myself to dinner at DINING CAFE BAR SLOW. This charming Italian restaurant is known for its handmade pasta and fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff were very friendly. I enjoyed a delicious pasta dish while overlooking the lush greenery of Yakushima. It was the perfect way to end a long day of hiking and exploring.


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

To cap off the night, I visited Ganta, a local bar in Miyanoura. This lively spot is open late, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. I enjoyed a local craft beer and chatted with some of the other patrons. It was a great way to experience the local nightlife and unwind after a day of adventure.


Discover Ganta, a lively bar in Yakushima offering local spirits and a warm atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Yakushima Shrine and relax on Inakahama Beach. I'm also hoping to visit the Yakushima Market to pick up some local souvenirs. It's hard to believe my trip is coming to an end. I'm already planning my return, hopefully with Greta next time.

Today has been an incredible experience, showcasing the diverse beauty of Yakushima. From the challenging hike to Mt. Miyanoura to the scenic drive along the coastal road, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. It's a reminder of why I love to travel – to challenge myself, to connect with nature, and to experience the unique culture of each destination. Yakushima has certainly left an indelible mark on my soul.