Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Chasing Sunsets and Serenity

As our penultimate day on Yakushima dawned, I felt a bittersweet mix of excitement and nostalgia. This trip with my friends has been nothing short of magical, a true escape into nature's embrace. Today promised a blend of panoramic views and botanical bliss, a fitting way to bid adieu to this enchanting island.

The morning started with a hearty breakfast at Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter. What a name, right? It certainly lived up to it! The food was incredible, setting us up perfectly for the day's adventures. I savored every bite, knowing these moments were fleeting. It's funny how food can taste even better when you're surrounded by good company and stunning scenery. Liam would have loved this place, I thought, making a mental note to bring him here someday. We even grabbed some snacks for the road, knowing that exploring Yakushima always involves a bit of walking.

Our first stop was the East China Sea Observatory. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through lush landscapes and offering glimpses of the coastline. As someone who grew up in landlocked Konstanz, Germany, the ocean always holds a special allure. The observatory itself was perched perfectly to offer breathtaking views of the East China Sea. The sky was awash with hues of blue and the sun was shining. It was a perfect day to be alive. I could have stayed there for hours, simply soaking in the view. I made sure to take tons of photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment, though pictures never truly do justice to the real thing. I was a little sunburnt though, as I forgot to reapply sunscreen after breakfast. Note to self: always be prepared! As Liam always says, 'Fail to prepare, prepare to fail'.


Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the East China Sea Observatory in Yakushima, a must-visit gem for nature lovers.

 

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the quiet moments of reflection found in nature's embrace.

Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Botanic gardens. I was excited to see the unique flora of this island. As a marketing assistant at a sustainable packaging company, I'm always fascinated by the natural world and its incredible biodiversity. The gardens were a tranquil oasis, filled with a diverse collection of plants and trees. August is a great time to visit, as many plants are in full bloom. I wandered through the pathways, marveling at the vibrant colors and interesting textures. It was a welcome change of pace after our earlier hikes, a chance to slow down and appreciate the smaller details of nature. We even saw some of the local coffee beans growing ! I have always loved coffee, and knowing that it was cultivated right here on the island made it taste even better. The gardens were not just a visual treat but also an educational experience, offering insights into the unique ecosystem of Yakushima. It reminded me a bit of the botanical gardens back in Dublin, though Yakushima's flora is, of course, much more exotic. I made sure to take some time to simply sit and breathe, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It's amazing how restorative nature can be, especially when you're surrounded by good friends and stunning scenery.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima's Botanic Gardens, a lush sanctuary of biodiversity and tranquility in Japan's natural wonderland.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-farewell dinner at Kamogawa Restaurant. We had heard great things about their local dishes, especially the flying fish. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, filled with locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and chatter, everyone eager to taste the island's culinary delights. I ordered the sashimi set special, eager to try the fresh seafood. It was absolutely delicious, a true explosion of flavors. The flying fish was a revelation, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a meal to remember. My friends opted for other local specialties, and we all shared our dishes, eager to experience the full range of Yakushima cuisine. The service was friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive experience. It was the perfect way to celebrate our last night on the island, a culinary adventure that left us feeling satisfied and content. I'm definitely going to try to recreate some of these dishes back in Dublin, though I doubt I'll be able to find flying fish quite as fresh.


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

After dinner, we couldn't resist a nightcap at scale スケール(サップ＆バー). It's always fun to try the local haunts, and this bar was no exception. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. I decided to try some local Yakushima shochu, wanting to fully immerse myself in the island's culture. It was surprisingly smooth and flavorful, a perfect complement to the evening. My friends and I shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about our adventures over the past two weeks. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing that our trip was coming to an end, but also filled with gratitude for the incredible experiences we had shared. The bar was a great mix of locals and tourists, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. I even managed to practice my (very limited) Japanese with some of the locals, which was both fun and humbling. I'm determined to improve my language skills before my next trip to Japan! I would have loved to have tried the SUP (Stand Up Paddle) activity at the bar, but it was too late in the day.


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

Finally, we ended the night with dinner at Subarashi Indian Restaurant. I know, I know, Indian food in Japan sounds a bit strange, but we were all craving something spicy. And it did not disappoint. The food was incredible, some of the best Indian food I've ever had. The owner was so welcoming, and the service was great. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I opted for a vegan curry, specifying no dairy to make sure it aligned with my dietary preferences. It was flavorful and satisfying, warming me from the inside out. My friends tried a variety of other dishes, and we all agreed that this was a culinary highlight of our trip. It's amazing how you can find such unexpected gems in the most unlikely places. Subarashi Indian Restaurant is definitely a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of home while exploring Yakushima.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of melancholy. Our time on Yakushima is drawing to a close, but the memories we've made will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we will visit the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center and Yahazudake Shrine. I'm excited to learn more about the island's history and culture before we bid our final farewell. I am also looking forward to visiting Yakushima Market, to pick up some last minute souvenirs.

Yakushima, you have captured my heart. Thank you for the breathtaking landscapes, the tranquil moments, and the unforgettable adventures. Until next time!