Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Reaching New Heights in Yakushima

Today was all about challenging myself and soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima from a different perspective. I've always loved heights, and today's itinerary promised a blend of thrilling adventure and serene natural beauty that I couldn't wait to experience. From walking among the treetops to conquering the island's highest peak, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. Liam and I decided to try some local specialties to fuel up for the day's adventures. I opted for the deep-fried chicken combo, while Liam went for the flying fish. It's always a treat to start the day with authentic island flavors, and this market is a must-visit for anyone looking to support local businesses.


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

After breakfast, we headed straight to Canoppi - Treetop canopy walk. The drive there was beautiful, with lush greenery on either side of the road. When we arrived, I was immediately struck by how well the canopy walk was integrated into the natural environment. The suspended walkways swayed gently as we walked, giving us an unparalleled perspective of the island's rich biodiversity. The towering cedar trees, some of which have stood for thousands of years, created a magical atmosphere. It felt like stepping into a fairy tale.


Explore the stunning beauty of Yakushima from the treetops at Canoppi - Treetop Canopy Walk, an unforgettable adventure in Japan's lush wilderness.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The treetop walk was not only thrilling but also educational. Informative signs along the way provided insights into the local flora and fauna. I learned about the different species of moss, ferns, and trees that thrive in this unique ecosystem. The gentle sway of the walkways added a touch of excitement to the journey, making it an unforgettable experience. I felt like a kid again, exploring a hidden world high above the forest floor.

After spending a couple of hours at Canoppi, we grabbed a quick lunch at Matsutake. This charming and authentic Japanese restaurant is known for its delicious soba noodles and warm hospitality. The owners were incredibly kind, and the service was prompt. The interior exuded an authentic Japanese atmosphere with tatami floor seating. I ordered the cold soba noodles with tempura, and it was simply amazing. The noodles were homemade and fresh, and the tempura was perfectly crispy. Liam enjoyed the warm soba noodles, which he said were equally delicious.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to conquer Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Yakushima. The Yodogawa trail is the most popular route, allowing for a same-day roundtrip to the peak. The hike is challenging, with an elevation change of over 1,200 meters, but the rewards are well worth the effort.


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

The trail started with an easy 40-minute walk to Yodogawa hut. From there, the real climb began. The first two hours were straightforward, passing through a wonderful marshland with lots of wooden planks to walk on. We hit a four-way junction and followed the signs to Mt. Miyanoura. After about 20 minutes, we reached a water source, where we took a break to fill up our water bottles.

As we ascended, the landscape transformed from lush forest to rocky terrain. The views became increasingly stunning with every step. We passed by unique rock formations and ancient cedar trees that seemed to have stood the test of time. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional birdsong.

The final stretch to the summit was the most challenging. The trail became steeper and rockier, and we had to scramble over boulders and navigate narrow passages. But with each step, the anticipation grew, and the promise of panoramic views kept us going.

Finally, after hours of hiking, we reached the summit of Mt. Miyanoura. The feeling of accomplishment was overwhelming. The 360-degree panoramic view from the top was more than rewarding. We could see the entire island of Yakushima, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and towering peaks. The sky was clear, and the sun was shining, making the view even more spectacular.

We spent some time at the summit, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and taking photos. It was a moment of pure bliss, a culmination of all the hard work and dedication we had put into this trip. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural beauty and for the strength and resilience of my own body.

The descent was just as challenging as the ascent. We had to be careful not to slip on the loose rocks and steep slopes. But with each step, we felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that we had conquered the island's highest peak.

By the time we reached the bottom of the trail, we were exhausted but exhilarated. We had pushed ourselves to our limits and had been rewarded with an unforgettable experience. We drove straight to Il Mare for a well-deserved dinner. This Italian restaurant is known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The chef uses local and Italian ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes. I ordered the Cameron special pizza (local venison with gorgonzola), and Liam had the ravioli with local kurobuta. Both were absolutely delicious.


Discover Il Mare in Yakushima for an unforgettable Italian dining experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out scale スケール(サップ＆バー). It was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of hiking. I enjoyed a glass of local Yakushima shochu while Liam opted for a craft beer. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we chatted with some locals and other travelers. It was a great way to end a perfect day.


Experience the unique stand bar SCALE in Yakushima, where refreshing drinks and boat rentals meet breathtaking island scenery.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. I challenged myself physically and mentally, and I was rewarded with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Yakushima continues to amaze me with its natural beauty and unique charm. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Yakushima Fruit Garden and Nidai Ōsugi (Second Generation Great Cedar), and I can't wait to see what other wonders this island has in store for us.

Tomorrow, we’re planning a slightly more relaxed day, visiting the Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato” and the Nidai Ōsugi (Second Generation Great Cedar). I’m especially looking forward to the fruit garden; I’ve heard their papayas are out of this world!