Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

First Impressions of Yakushima: History, Food, and Friendship

After a long journey from Dublin, with a stopover in Tokyo and a final hop from Kagoshima, I've finally arrived in Yakushima! The excitement has been building for months, and stepping onto this island with my friends, I knew we were in for an unforgettable experience. Today was all about settling in, soaking up the local culture, and enjoying the simple pleasures of island life. I’m particularly excited to share my experiences and insights with my readers, especially those interested in eco-conscious travel and cultural immersion.

The August air here is warm and humid. The weather forecast predicts highs of around 29°C, with a chance of rain, so I made sure to pack my trusty rain jacket – a must for any trip to Yakushima. I’ve heard that Yakushima in August offers sunny days, so I'm looking forward to exploring this beautiful island!

Our first stop was the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. It was a great starting point to understand the island's heritage. The museum is conveniently located near the Miyanoura River, making it easy to access from the port.


Explore Yakushima's unique history and folklore at the Museum of History and Folklore, where culture meets the island's natural beauty.

Inside, we were greeted by a variety of exhibits showcasing Yakushima's local history and culture. From original Edo Period documents to wood and wicker folk tools, there was so much to see. I found the exhibits on the island's festivals particularly interesting, with costumes and a rice straw rope used in a tug-of-war festival. Although most of the descriptions were in Japanese, we were provided with a laminated sheet in English, which helped us navigate the exhibits. It was fascinating to learn about the traditions and events that have shaped Yakushima's identity over the centuries.

After immersing ourselves in history, we headed to the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. This center provided a wealth of information about Yakushima National Park and its natural environment, which is designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.


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

The center had various exhibits on the diverse flora and fauna of Yakushima Island. I was particularly impressed by the visual representations showing how the heights of local plants change depending on their altitude. There was also a 3D map of the national park terrain, which gave us a great overview of the island's topography. We learned about the island's ecosystem and its outstanding universal value as a world heritage site.

After a morning of cultural and historical exploration, it was time for a hearty lunch. We decided to try Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. This market and restaurant is a must-visit for food and souvenir enthusiasts. It's a great place to try local specialties and shop for unique mementos.


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

We enjoyed deliciously grilled flying fish, a local delicacy, along with tasty sashimi. The market also had a variety of local products, from tankan orange juice to dango. I made sure to grab a few souvenirs for Liam and my family back in Dublin. It was a delightful experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Yakushima.

Sometimes, the most enriching travel experiences come from immersing yourself in the local culture and savoring the unique flavors of a place.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Katagiri Flying Fish Restaurant for a late lunch. This charming eatery specializes in Japanese regional cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, particularly flying fish. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.


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

I decided to try their signature flying fish sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. My friend Mei opted for a set menu featuring other local delicacies. Katagiri also offers Italian-inspired dishes, providing a unique fusion that caters to diverse palates. It was a truly unforgettable dining experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to savor the flavors of Yakushima.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to DINING CAFE BAR SLOW for dinner. This cozy Italian restaurant is known for its handmade pasta and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere was perfect for unwinding after a busy day, with a beautiful forest view from the back of the restaurant.


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

I ordered the handmade pasta, which was absolutely delicious. My friends tried the burgers and seafood, and everyone was thoroughly satisfied. The cafe also offers a range of drinks, including coffee and local specialties. It was the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends.

To cap off our first day, we decided to check out Cafe & Bar RainTree for a nightcap. This unique establishment combines the charm of a cafe with the lively atmosphere of a karaoke bar. It's a great place to unwind and socialize, whether you're looking for a refreshing coffee or a creative cocktail.


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

We enjoyed a few drinks and even tried our hand at karaoke. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the atmosphere was lively and fun. It was a perfect way to end our first day in Yakushima, immersing ourselves in the local nightlife and making new friends.

As I reflect on our first day in Yakushima, I'm filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Shiratani Unsui Gorge and Jōmon Sugi, two of the island's most iconic natural attractions. We'll be having breakfast at Aqua Cafe, lunch at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, and dinner at Il Mare. I’m also hoping to visit Yakushima Market. I'm looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all!

The clear skies and warm temperatures made for a pleasant first day. I am glad I packed light clothing and sunscreen, essentials for this time of year. Although I forgot insect repellent and a portable charger, I'll make sure to pick them up tomorrow at Yakushima Market.

Overall, today was a fantastic introduction to the island. The blend of cultural immersion and culinary delights has left me eager to discover more of Yakushima's hidden gems. Stay tuned for more updates as our adventure continues!