Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Reaching New Heights and Chasing the Sunset

Today was a day of immense physical challenge and breathtaking natural beauty. I'm still buzzing from the accomplishment of scaling Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Yakushima, and then unwinding with friends as we watched the sun dip below the horizon from Sunset Hill Observation Deck. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, pushing my limits and connecting with the world in such profound ways.


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

The day began early, grabbing a quick breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. The restaurant had a certain charm, reminiscent of soba shops, and the simple meal fueled me up before the big hike. It's amazing how much a simple, satisfying meal can set the tone for the adventures ahead. I met up with my friends, and we were ready to conquer Mt. Miyanoura.


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

The ascent was demanding, to say the least. The Yodogawa Trail, which we chose, is known as one of the more accessible routes for a day hike. The hike is about 16km round trip. The trail wound through ancient forests, with sunlight filtering through the canopy, creating an ethereal atmosphere. I was grateful I had packed my hiking boots and rain gear, since Yakushima is known for its frequent rain.

As we climbed, the landscape transformed from lush forest to rocky terrain. There were even a few rope sections that added an extra thrill to the climb. We eventually passed through the Hana-no-ego Marshland, a high-altitude marsh that was a testament to Yakushima's diverse landscapes. The views from the summit were simply stunning. From the highest point in Kyushu, we could see the entire island and the vast expanse of the ocean stretching out before us. It was a moment of pure exhilaration, a reward for all the hard work we had put in.

The summit of Miyanoura is not just a geographical high point; it's a vantage from which to see the interconnectedness of nature and the smallness of our everyday concerns.

After descending from Mt. Miyanoura, we were all starving. We headed to Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant for a well-deserved lunch. I had heard great things about their flying fish dishes, a local delicacy. I decided to try the flying fish hitsumabushi, and it was delicious. The local draft beer was the perfect complement. I definitely want to try their flying-fish pasta before we leave Yakushima.


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

With the sun beginning to dip lower in the sky, we made our way to Sunset Hill Observation Deck. As the name suggests, it's the perfect spot to watch the sunset. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the East China Sea, and as we arrived, the sky was already ablaze with color.


Experience breathtaking sunsets and panoramic views from the Sunset Hill Observation Deck on Yakushima Island, a serene escape into nature's beauty.

We found a comfortable spot and watched as the sun slowly sank below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. The view was romantic and peaceful. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and physical exertion.

For dinner, we decided to try Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter. I had read some reviews and was intrigued by the restaurant's commitment to unique dining experiences. The restaurant lived up to its name. The food was fantastic, with each dish offering a new and exciting flavor. The chef and staff were very nice. It was a memorable culinary experience that perfectly capped off our day.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Each Meal, an izakaya in Yakushima where every dish is a celebration of local culture and culinary artistry.

Finally, before heading back to our guesthouse, we stopped by Cafe & Bar RainTree for a nightcap. This place uniquely combines a cafe with a karaoke bar. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed some drinks. We even joined in on the karaoke, belting out some tunes. It was a fun and lively way to end the evening.


Experience the vibrant blend of karaoke and cafe culture at Cafe & Bar RainTree in beautiful Yakushima, Japan.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit Ryujin Falls and Yaku-jinja. I'm excited to see more of Yakushima's natural beauty and immerse ourselves in the local culture. I also want to check out YAWARACA “The Scent of Yakushima LAB”.

As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Yakushima's wonders with my friends. It's days like these that create lasting memories and deepen our appreciation for the world around us. I'm excited for what tomorrow will bring, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today's adventures.

Yakushima continues to surprise and inspire me at every turn. The island's natural beauty is unparalleled, and the warmth and hospitality of the locals make it an unforgettable destination. I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my friends, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. I might even try to find some insect repellent, since I forgot to pack it.