Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Fruits, Cedars, and Culinary Delights

Today was a delightful blend of flavors and ancient wonders, a true testament to Yakushima's unique charm. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries, the immersion in nature, and the simple joys of experiencing a new culture.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe. Liam and I both opted for the Omurice, which came highly recommended. The cafe itself was so cozy, a little like stepping into someone's home, and the owners were incredibly kind. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. The seafood in the pasta was cooked to perfection.


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

Our first stop was the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”. I was excited to see the variety of tropical plants and fruits grown here. The garden tour was given by a local, who was very enthusiastic and moved at quite a fast pace. It felt a little rushed, but his passion for the garden was evident.


Explore the lush beauty of Yakushima Fruit Garden, a tropical paradise filled with diverse fruits and stunning landscapes perfect for all ages.

I was fascinated by the sheer variety of fruit trees – bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas, all thriving in this little corner of Japan. It's amazing how Yakushima's climate supports such diverse flora. At the end of the tour, we were treated to a small fruit platter, a delightful mix of flavors. It was a pity we couldn’t buy any of the fruits to take with us. I did pick up some tankan citrus juice; I thought it would make a great souvenir.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that engage all our senses – the taste of exotic fruits, the sight of ancient trees, and the feel of the earth beneath our feet.

Next on our itinerary was the Nidai Ōsugi (Second Generation Great Cedar). This magnificent tree is a testament to the island's ancient forests. The hike to get there was beautiful, winding through lush greenery. The air was fresh and filled with the scent of cedar.

Explore the ancient majesty of Nidai Ōsugi, the iconic Second Generation Great Cedar, amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yakushima.

Standing before the Nidai Ōsugi was a humbling experience. The sheer size and age of the tree were awe-inspiring. It's hard to believe that this tree is over 1,000 years old. It’s amazing to think about all the history this tree has witnessed. The Nidai Ōsugi is an example of a new cedar that has grown on top of the roots of a giant hollow nurse log. I learned that cedars in Yakushima over 1,000 years old are called “Yakusugi”. I took some photos, hoping to capture the grandeur of the moment, but no picture could truly do it justice.

After our forest adventure, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Kamogawa Restaurant, known for its local fish and Japanese dishes. The restaurant was bustling with both locals and tourists, a good sign. Liam tried the deep-fried flying fish, a Yakushima specialty, while I opted for the sashimi set. Both were delicious. The flying fish was crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, while the sashimi was incredibly fresh. We also tried Kamenote (Japanese goose barnacle), which was surprisingly good.

Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

To satisfy my sweet tooth, we made a stop at Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi. I had heard about their unique flavors, made with local ingredients, and I was eager to try them. The gelato shop was charming, with a cozy atmosphere. I chose the Tankan orange and sea salt flavors. The orange was zesty and refreshing, while the sea salt added a subtle savory note. Liam went for the purple sweet potato flavor, which was equally delicious. It was the perfect way to cool down after a day of hiking. I was amazed to find a gelato store on an island as remote as Yakushima.

Experience the sweet flavors of Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi, where artisanal gelato meets the island's breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.

For dinner, we decided to try something different and headed to Subarashi Indian Restaurant. I know it sounds strange to have Indian food in Japan, but I had read good reviews about this place. The owner, Bidhan, was very welcoming and spoke fluent English. I ordered a vegetarian curry, specifying no dairy to make it vegan. It was flavorful and satisfying. Liam had the chicken chili, which he enjoyed. The naan wasn’t very oily and crispy on the bottom. It was a comforting meal that warmed us from the inside out.

Discover authentic Indian flavors at Subarashi Indian Restaurant in Yakushima, where tradition meets local charm.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had. Yakushima is a truly special place, a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Inakahama Beach and Ryujin Falls. I’m looking forward to more adventures and discoveries on this enchanting island.

Until next time,

Ursula