Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

A Day of Serenity and Wonder

Today was a day of embracing Yakushima's unique offerings. From the therapeutic embrace of a seaside onsen to the humbling presence of ancient cedars, every moment felt like a step deeper into the island's soul. It's amazing how much a single day can hold when you're surrounded by such natural beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter. The name is quite a promise, and the food definitely lived up to it! It’s a cozy spot, and starting the day with such delicious local fare set the tone for adventure. I really enjoyed the atmosphere - it felt like a genuine, family-run establishment, a welcome change from the more touristy spots.

Fueled and ready, we headed to Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen. This was an experience I had been eagerly anticipating, and it did not disappoint. The onsen is only accessible during low tide, which added an element of anticipation to the visit. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich water, with the vast Pacific Ocean stretching out before you. The waves crashed gently against the rocks, creating a soothing soundtrack to our morning.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a unique outdoor hot spring retreat on Yakushima Island, surrounded by nature's splendor.
The water was wonderfully warm, and there was a palpable sense of tranquility. It’s a mixed-gender bath, which is quite common in Japan, and everyone was respectful and relaxed. I must admit, being someone with a fair complexion, I was diligent in applying sunscreen before braving the sun! It's funny, I remembered Liam teasing me about packing so much sunscreen, but I’m glad I came prepared. It's important to respect local customs, like the donation box for upkeep, and the lack of swimsuits.

          

The sea is a vast and mysterious place, offering both adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

          
After the onsen, we journeyed inland to see the Sandaisugi Cedar. This ancient tree is a testament to the resilience of nature, a cedar that has grown over three generations. The first generation fell, and the second grew from its trunk. The third, now several hundred years old, sprouts from the remains of the second. Standing before it, I felt a profound connection to the earth and the passage of time. It's designated as a cedar having an excellent gene by the Japan Forest Agency.


Explore the ancient beauty of Sandaisugi Cedar, a serene nature preserve in Yakushima, renowned for its majestic cedar trees and rich biodiversity.
For lunch, we stopped at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. The restaurant itself was lovely, with a distinct artistic vibe. The food was beautifully presented, and I particularly enjoyed the fresh, local ingredients. It was a perfect spot to recharge before our next adventure. While there, I purchased a small framed picture of a cedar forest - a memento to remind me of the day.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, where local flavors meet traditional techniques in an unforgettable dining experience.
Next on the agenda was a bit of shopping at Gramoon. I always love to find unique souvenirs, and this shop had a great selection of local crafts and goods. I picked up a few small items as gifts for my family back in Dublin, and a beautiful hand-painted scarf for myself. It's always nice to support local artisans and bring a piece of the place home with you.


Discover unique fashion and local artisan crafts at Gramoon, a premier clothing store in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.
As evening approached, we found ourselves at SamPotei for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it lived up to the hype. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the menu featured a variety of local specialties. I opted for a seafood dish, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried a local meat dish and declared it delicious.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.
Walking back to our campsite under the starlit sky, I felt an immense sense of gratitude. Yakushima has a way of slowing you down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. The scent of the forest, the sound of the waves, the taste of local cuisine – it all combines to create an unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Yakushima Shrine and the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. We're also hoping to grab breakfast at hiyoriya, lunch at Wakadaisho, and dinner at a heavenly kitchen. And perhaps, if the mood strikes, we might even check out catch the beer for a nightcap. It’s hard to believe that our trip is drawing to a close. I’m already feeling a pang of sadness at the thought of leaving this magical island, but I know that the memories we’ve made here will stay with me forever.

This trip has been a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of Dublin. While I love my life in Ireland, there’s something incredibly restorative about immersing myself in nature. It reminds me of my childhood in Konstanz, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Constance. Perhaps that’s why I feel such a strong connection to places like Yakushima.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures. Yakushima, you have truly captured my heart.

Looking ahead, after our visit to the shrine and museum tomorrow, it will almost be time to bid farewell to Yakushima. I know I will be taking a piece of its magic with me back to Dublin. I'm also mindful of the approaching typhoon season and hope everyone on the island stays safe. And of course, I'm already plotting my return - maybe next time, Liam and I can convince my parents to join us! The island's blend of natural beauty and cultural richness would surely enchant them, and I can already imagine my mother sketching the ancient cedars while my father samples the local shochu. For now, though, I'll cherish these last few moments and look forward to sharing more stories from our Yakushima adventure.