Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Saying Goodbye to Yakushima

As my incredible journey through Yakushima draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the amazing experiences I've had. Today was a perfect blend of cultural immersion, tranquil reflection, and of course, indulging in the island's unique culinary offerings. It's hard to believe our fifteen days here are up already! I'm both excited to return to Dublin and share my stories, and sad to leave this enchanting place.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at Aqua Cafe in the town of Anbo. Liam and I both opted for their famous omurice, a Japanese omelette with fried rice. The seafood in my pasta was cooked to perfection, with scallops bursting with flavour and shrimp that wasn’t rubbery or chewy. It was the perfect fuel for our final day of exploration. The cafe itself had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, reminding me a bit of some of my favourite spots back in Dublin.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. As someone who works in sustainable packaging, I was particularly interested in learning more about the island's unique ecosystem and the efforts being made to preserve it. The center provided a wealth of information about Yakushima's natural environment, its diverse flora and fauna, and the importance of conservation. I was fascinated by the exhibits showcasing the island's ancient cedar trees and the unique wildlife that calls Yakushima home. It was inspiring to see the dedication of the local community to protecting this UNESCO World Heritage site.


Explore the rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of Yakushima at the World Heritage Conservation Center, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

The journey to understanding and preserving our natural heritage is as important as the destination itself.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to Yahazudake Shrine, a place recommended by a local we met while hiking. Tucked away near Isso Beach, the shrine was a bit of a hidden gem. The walk to the shrine was short but sweet, with beautiful views of the ocean. The bright red torii gate at the entrance was particularly striking against the backdrop of the blue sea and sky. The shrine itself is nestled inside a cave, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. I took some time to soak in the tranquility and reflect on the incredible experiences I've had in Yakushima. It was the perfect spot for quiet contemplation. I could see why the locals consider it a spiritual place.


Experience the spiritual serenity of Yahazudake Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by Yakushima's lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

After our visit to the shrine, it was time for lunch. We headed to Matsutake, a soba noodle restaurant known for its traditional Japanese charm and delicious food. The restaurant is family-run and housed in an old Japanese building, which added to the authentic experience. I opted for the cold soba noodles with tempura, and they were absolutely divine. The noodles were homemade and fresh, and the tempura was perfectly crispy and light. Liam enjoyed the warm soba noodles, and we both agreed that it was one of the best meals we've had on the island. The owners were incredibly kind and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring the Yakushima Market. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to take back to Dublin and Konstanz. The market was bustling with activity, offering a wide array of local crafts, foodstuffs, and books. I found a beautiful hand-painted fan depicting the island's famous cedar trees, which I knew my mother would adore. I also picked up some local citrus fruits, like ponkan and tankan oranges, to share with Liam's family. It was a great way to support the local economy and bring a little piece of Yakushima back home with me.


Discover the vibrant Yakushima Market, where local crafts and fresh produce come together for an authentic shopping experience.

For our final dinner in Yakushima, we chose Shiosai, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and generous portions. We started with the mackerel sashimi, a Yakushima specialty. It was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For our main courses, Liam ordered the fried flying fish, while I opted for the grilled giant shrimp. Both dishes were cooked to perfection and served with a variety of side dishes, including rice, miso soup, and chawamushi. The portions were indeed generous, and we left feeling completely satisfied. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Yakushima.


Experience authentic Japanese tempura at Shiosai in Yakushima—where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our campsite, reflecting on the incredible adventure we've had in Yakushima. From hiking through ancient forests to swimming in crystal-clear waters to indulging in the island's unique cuisine, this trip has been nothing short of magical. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this enchanting island with my friends. It's a place that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Tomorrow, we'll be packing up our gear and heading back to Kagoshima, and then onwards to Tokyo for our flight back to Dublin. It's going to be a long journey, but I know I'll be carrying the spirit of Yakushima with me every step of the way. I can't wait to share my stories and photos with everyone back home and inspire them to visit this incredible island for themselves.

Yakushima, you've been amazing! Until we meet again...

P.S. I definitely need to remember to buy some insect repellent when I get back to Dublin. Those little critters were relentless!