Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Botanical Bliss and Sunset Skies

Today was a day of exploring Yakushima's diverse landscapes, from meticulously curated gardens to the vast expanse of the East China Sea. It's amazing how much variety this island holds, and I was excited to soak it all in with my friends. We were ready for a day filled with natural beauty and local flavors.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Michikusa. This charming eatery is known for its home-style cooking and locally sourced ingredients. It felt like stepping into someone's home, with the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. David enjoyed a pork cutlet set , and he was raving about how tender and flavorful the pork was. It's these little local spots that really make a trip special. It reminded me of the small, family-run restaurants back in Somerset Village, Bermuda, where the food is always made with love.

After breakfast, we set off for the Botanic Gardens. The gardens are a serene escape into nature, showcasing the lush greenery and diverse ecosystems of Yakushima. As we wandered through the winding paths, we were surrounded by vibrant blooms, towering trees, and tranquil ponds. It was a feast for the senses, with the sweet scents of the flowers and the sounds of birds chirping. The gardens are home to an impressive collection of native and exotic flora, and we learned so much about the island's unique biodiversity.


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

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

The Yakushima Botanical Research Park is not just a typical botanical garden, but also offers the opportunity to savor tropical fruits at their shop corner. Visitors can indulge in the delightful taste of Yakushima coffee for an affordable price. This domestic coffee possesses a mild flavor profile with minimal acidity, complemented by a pleasing aroma. The park even allows guests to witness firsthand the coffee beans they use. Additionally, one can purchase star fruit as a reasonably priced souvenir.

I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the gardens. It's moments like these that I feel so grateful to be able to experience the world and share it with others through my blog. I even spotted a red bridge resembling a Shinto gate , which made for a perfect photo opportunity. The gardens are meticulously maintained, with educational displays about the island's unique biodiversity and conservation efforts.

For lunch, we headed to Wakadaisho, a popular dining spot in Miyanoura known for its fresh seafood. Wakadaisho serve local fish from their own fishing boats. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes including raw venison, fish sashimi platters, tofu from Nagata factory, flying fish, deer, and shochu. Despite being busy, the staff are friendly and accommodating with both English and Japanese menus available. I decided to try the flying fish sashimi, a local specialty, and it was incredibly fresh and flavorful. David opted for the deer tataki, which he described as tender and delicious. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike. It was a great place to soak in the local culture and enjoy some authentic Japanese cuisine.


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

After lunch, we made our way to the East China Sea Observatory. The observatory is a popular spot for travelers looking to take a break from driving and enjoy stunning sunset views. From there, you can see three islands: Kuchinoerabujima, Kuroshima and Iojima. It was a bit of a drive, but the views were well worth it. As we arrived, the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the sea. The observatory offered panoramic views of the coastline, and we could see the faint outlines of other islands in the distance.


Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the East China Sea Observatory in Yakushima, a must-visit gem for nature lovers.

We found a perfect spot to sit and watch the sunset, and it was truly breathtaking. The sky was ablaze with color, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. The East China Sea Observatory is a breathtaking spot where you can enjoy the beautiful sight of the sun setting over the East China Sea. It reminded me of the sunsets back home in Bermuda, where the sky is always putting on a show.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we made our way to Ambar for a nightcap. This cozy bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide selection of drinks. We settled in for a few drinks, reminiscing about the day's adventures and making plans for tomorrow. I tried a local craft beer, while David opted for a glass of shochu, a traditional Japanese spirit. The bar had a friendly vibe, and we struck up a conversation with a couple of locals, sharing stories and laughter.


Experience the lively dart bar culture at Ambar in Yakushima, where fun, friendship, and refreshing drinks await every night.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. The garden features a variety of plants from around the world, and visitors are taken on a tour by a friendly elderly gentleman through the lush jungle-like surroundings. We're also hoping to check out the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore, to learn more about the island's rich cultural heritage. And of course, we'll be trying some more local cuisine, with dinner at Hachiman. I am particularly excited for the Yakushima Fruit Garden, as I have read it features a variety of plants from around the world.

Today was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Yakushima continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. I'm so grateful to be able to share these experiences with my friends, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It's these moments of connection and discovery that make travel so worthwhile, and I'm excited to see what adventures tomorrow holds.