Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

A Fond Farewell to Yakushima

As our incredible journey through Yakushima draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the profound experiences and unforgettable memories we've created over the past couple of weeks. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of island life, delving into the local culture, and supporting sea turtle conservation efforts. It’s amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, and Yakushima has certainly captured a piece of my heart.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Aqua Cafe. The ambiance was just what we needed – cozy and welcoming. I decided on the hamburg steak omurice, which was fluffy and flavorful. David went for the seafood pasta, which he said was cooked to perfection. It was a perfect start to our last day on the island.


Discover Aqua Cafe in Yakushima - where exquisite local cuisine meets breathtaking nature in a cozy dining experience.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center. This center is a treasure trove of information about the island’s unique environment, nature, geography, and culture. The staff were incredibly attentive and helpful, guiding us through the exhibits and answering all our questions. I was particularly impressed by the panoramic movie showcasing Yakushima’s stunning landscapes. It gave us a new perspective on the island's diverse ecology and history.


Explore the vibrant ecosystem and rich culture of Yakushima at the Environmental and Cultural Village Center, your gateway to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the center, learning about the island's geology, marine life, and the prehistoric village culture. Jasmine was fascinated by the scale model of Yakushima, complete with chains representing the island's rainfall. I picked up a handmade bookmark set made from Yakusugi cedar at the souvenir shop—a perfect memento of our trip.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys aren't about the destination, but the connections we forge along the way.

Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. As someone deeply passionate about environmental sustainability, this was an attraction I was particularly excited about. The hall is dedicated to educating visitors about sea turtles and promoting conservation efforts. We learned about the life cycles, habitats, and challenges faced by these magnificent creatures.


Experience the beauty and conservation of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, a must-visit museum for nature lovers.

The manager was incredibly knowledgeable and provided clear explanations about the turtles and their conservation. We even had the chance to see baby turtles up close, which was an absolute delight. It was heartwarming to witness the dedication of the staff towards protecting these beautiful animals. The experience left us with a renewed sense of responsibility to support marine conservation efforts back home in Toronto.

For lunch, we headed to Matsutake, a soba noodle house known for its authentic Japanese cuisine. This place was a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away behind another house. The interior had a traditional Japanese charm with tatami floor seating. We took off our shoes and settled in for a delightful meal. I ordered the cold soba noodles with tempura, while David opted for the warm soba. The noodles were homemade and fresh, and the tempura was light and crispy. Jasmine enjoyed her noodles as well. It was a truly authentic and satisfying culinary experience.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.

After lunch, we decided to do some souvenir shopping at Yakushima BLESS. This concept shop is dedicated to showcasing local artistry and sustainable economic activities. We browsed through a variety of unique items made from Yakusugi cedar, including incense, soaps, and handicrafts. I was particularly drawn to the Yggdrasil Incense, made with Yakusugi cedar, which aims to replicate the unique scents of Yakushima. I ended up buying a few small gifts for friends and family back home, wanting to share a piece of Yakushima's charm with them.


Explore Yakushima Bless: A vibrant shopping mall showcasing local artistry, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs from the beautiful island of Yakushima.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a farewell dinner at SamPotei. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with jazzy vibes that added to the overall experience. We started with the butter garlic scallops, which were cooked to perfection. For the main course, I chose the balsamic venison, while David went for the local fish sashimi platter. The chef even drew us a little map of where each fish came from. The food was exceptional, and the service was outstanding. It was the perfect way to celebrate our last night on Yakushima.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.

Reflecting on our time here, it’s clear that Yakushima is more than just a beautiful island; it’s a place with a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to nature. The ancient forests, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife have left an indelible mark on our souls. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I'm especially grateful I got to share this experience with David and Jasmine.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Toronto. While I’m excited to see my Gombey dancing troupe, tend to my Caribbean herb garden, and attend a cultural festival, I know a part of me will always remain in Yakushima. Until next time, Yakushima, thank you for the adventure!

I am leaving this beautiful island with a deep sense of gratitude and a renewed commitment to environmental sustainability. Yakushima has not only offered us breathtaking landscapes but also valuable lessons about preserving our planet’s natural treasures. From the ancient cedar forests to the pristine coastlines, every corner of this island whispers a tale of resilience and harmony. As we prepare to return to our daily lives, I hope to carry forward the spirit of Yakushima, advocating for responsible tourism and conservation efforts in my community and beyond. The memories and lessons from this journey will undoubtedly shape my actions and inspire me to make a positive impact on the world around me.

Looking Ahead

As this chapter of our journey closes, I'm already dreaming of future adventures. Perhaps we'll explore more of Japan's hidden gems or venture to other UNESCO World Heritage sites around the globe. One thing is certain: the lessons and experiences from Yakushima will continue to guide our travels and inspire us to seek out destinations that offer a blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventures. Until our next adventure, thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Safe travels, everyone!

Before I completely sign off, I want to give a shout-out to my amazing friends who made this trip even more special. Their laughter, support, and shared sense of adventure added so much joy to every moment. Traveling with friends has a unique way of enhancing experiences, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Whether we were hiking through ancient forests, sharing delicious meals, or simply enjoying each other's company, these are the memories I will cherish forever. Thank you, friends, for being the best travel companions I could ask for!

This marks the end of our Yakushima adventure. It's been an incredible journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories. I hope you enjoyed reading about our experiences and that it inspires you to explore the ancient forests of Yakushima for yourself. Until next time, safe travels and happy adventures!