Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

A Promising Start to Our Yakushima Adventure

Touching down in Yakushima with my friends felt like stepping into another world. The air was thick with humidity and the promise of lush landscapes, a stark contrast to Toronto's dry summer heat. After months of planning, our adventure had finally begun, and I couldn't wait to immerse myself in the island's natural beauty and unique culture. The day was packed, and I was eager to see and taste everything Yakushima had to offer.

Our first stop was the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. It was essential to get a solid understanding of the island’s unique ecosystem and the efforts being made to preserve it. The center offered a wealth of information about Yakushima National Park, a designated UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits showcasing the diverse flora and fauna, and the 3D map of the island's terrain. It really helped to put the scale of the mountains into perspective and gave us a better understanding of the different altitudes and vegetation zones.


Explore the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center, where nature and culture converge in a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site.

Learning about the local ecosystem and the initiatives for protecting it made me feel even more connected to the island. It's important to be a responsible traveler, especially in a place as precious as Yakushima, and the center provided valuable insights into how we could minimize our impact while exploring the trails.

Next, we ventured into Yakusugi Land, a nature park famed for its ancient Yakushima cedar trees, some over 1,000 years old. As a community outreach coordinator focused on environmental sustainability, I was eager to witness these ancient giants firsthand. The park offered a range of hiking trails, from easy 30-minute walks to more challenging 3-hour treks. Given our limited time on the first day and the slightly humid weather, we opted for a moderate course that allowed us to delve deep into the mossy forests.


Explore Yakusugi Land: a UNESCO World Heritage nature preserve in Yakushima known for its ancient cedar trees and stunning hiking trails.

The trails were well-maintained, winding through dense forests, alongside mossy streams, and featuring wooden walkways and bridges. It felt like stepping into a fairytale, with every corner revealing a new, breathtaking vista. The air was filled with the earthy scent of cedar, and the sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. My friends and I were in awe of the sheer size and age of the Yakusugi trees, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky like ancient arms.

I couldn't resist snapping photos of the Buddhasugi, Futagosugi, and Sennensugi, each with its own unique character and story to tell. We even saw a few Yakushima azaleas, their colorful blooms adding a splash of vibrancy to the verdant landscape. It was a truly immersive experience, and I felt a deep sense of peace and connection with nature as we wandered through the ancient forest.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering mountains, but in quietly walking through ancient forests.

After our invigorating hike, it was time to refuel. We headed to Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan for breakfast. I was excited to try some local delicacies and support the island's businesses. The market was bustling with activity, offering a variety of local products and handicrafts. We sampled some tankan orange juice, a must-try local specialty, and it was perfectly sweet and sour. I also couldn't resist trying the deep-fried flying fish combo, a local favorite. The fish was crispy and flavorful, and the miso soup was delicious. It was the perfect way to start our culinary journey on Yakushima.


Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.

For lunch, we decided to visit Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant, a hidden gem known for its fresh seafood and Japanese regional cuisine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Of course, I had to try their signature flying fish sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. My friends opted for the local flying-fish pasta and the YUZU Pork Cutled Set, both of which were delicious.


Experience authentic Japanese regional cuisine with an Italian twist at Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant on beautiful Yakushima Island.

I was also intrigued by their Italian-inspired dishes, which offered a unique fusion of flavors. It was a delightful culinary experience, and I appreciated the restaurant's commitment to showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Before dinner, we stopped by Yakushima Market to do some shopping. It was a great place to find unique souvenirs and local products. I picked up some Yakusugi crafts to take back home as gifts, and we also stocked up on snacks for our hikes in the coming days.


Discover the vibrant Yakushima Market, where local crafts and fresh produce come together for an authentic shopping experience.

For dinner, we chose Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, enticed by its reputation for izakaya-style plates cooked with seasonal and local ingredients. The atmosphere was chic, and the bilingual menu made it easy for us to navigate the offerings. We tried the pork belly dish and some unique sashimi selections, all of which were delicious. The restaurant truly captured the essence of Yakushima's cuisine, and I appreciated the focus on fresh, local produce.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, where local flavors meet traditional techniques in an unforgettable dining experience.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our incredible first day in Yakushima. We had explored ancient forests, learned about the island's unique ecosystem, and savored the flavors of local cuisine. Traveling with my friends made the experience even more special, as we shared laughter, awe, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounded us.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Shiratani Unsui Gorge and Wilson's Stump. I’ve heard whispers of the magical, moss-covered landscape of Shiratani Unsui Gorge, and I’m eager to see Wilson's Stump, the cross-section of a giant cedar that reveals a hidden heart shape when viewed from the inside. Plus, we're planning to grab some breakfast at Aqua Cafe, lunch at Il Mare, and dinner at Hachiman. I'm also hoping we can squeeze in a visit to Cafe & Bar RainTree for a nightcap. It's going to be another exciting day, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us in Yakushima!

I am so glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots and rain gear, but I am kicking myself for forgetting my portable phone charger and insect repellent. I will need to buy those tomorrow!