Family Adventure in the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

A Gentle Start to Our Yakushima Adventure

Our first day in Yakushima was a gentle immersion into the island's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural wonders. After our long journey from Heidelberg, via Kagoshima, to this captivating island, we were eager to stretch our legs and begin exploring. Today was all about setting the stage for the adventures to come, and Yakushima certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. I was excited to try some local specialties. The restaurant itself had a charming, gallery-like atmosphere, filled with local crafts and artwork. Maximilian enjoyed a classic Japanese breakfast set, while Hanna opted for something simple. I decided on the flying fish ramen, a local delicacy that I had read so much about. It was an interesting experience. The ramen came with a generous portion of fried flying fish. The combination of the savory broth and the unique taste of the fish was a delightful introduction to Yakushima cuisine. Maximilian and Hanna also sampled some, and Hanna giggled at the fish's wing-like fins.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, where local flavors meet traditional techniques in an unforgettable dining experience.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Yakushima World Heritage Conservation Center. This was an essential first stop, as it provided a comprehensive overview of the island's unique ecosystem and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The center was very informative, with exhibits detailing the island's diverse flora and fauna, particularly the ancient cedar forests and the vertical distribution of vegetation. Hanna was fascinated by the 3D map of the island, pointing out the various mountain peaks and trying to pronounce their names. Maximilian, with his engineering background, was intrigued by the displays explaining the conservation efforts and the sustainable practices in place to protect the island's natural resources.


Discover Yakushima's natural wonders: Explore diverse ecosystems, ancient forests, and vital conservation efforts at the World Heritage Conservation Center.

I found myself particularly drawn to the exhibits about the Jomon Sugi, the island's most famous ancient cedar. Learning about its estimated age and the efforts to preserve it gave me a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders we were about to explore. The center also provided valuable information about hiking etiquette and the importance of minimizing our impact on the environment, something I take very seriously as a travel blogger and advocate for sustainable tourism.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

After spending a couple of hours at the Conservation Center, we headed to the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the island's past, showcasing exhibits on local history, culture, and traditions. We saw displays of farming implements, fishing gear, and traditional handicrafts, providing insights into how the islanders lived and worked in harmony with nature.


Discover Yakushima's cultural heritage at this local history museum, showcasing traditions, folklore, and historical events that shaped the island.

Hanna was particularly captivated by the exhibits on local festivals, with colorful costumes and masks that sparked her imagination. I was intrigued by the displays about the logging industry and the history of Yakusugi cedar harvesting, learning about the sustainable practices that were eventually adopted to protect the forests. Maximilian enjoyed reading about the island's connections to nearby Kuchinoerabu Island, a volcanic island with its own unique history and culture.

By late afternoon, we were ready for a bit of shopping. We visited the Yakushima Market, hoping to find some local produce and souvenirs. The market was bustling with activity, with vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and handmade crafts. We sampled some Yakushima oranges, known for their sweet and tangy flavor, and bought a few to enjoy later. Hanna picked out a small wooden carving of a Yakushima deer, a memento of our visit to the museum. I was on the lookout for some unique spices or seasonings to bring back to Heidelberg, hoping to recreate some of the flavors of Yakushima in my own kitchen.


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

For dinner, we had reservations at a heavenly kitchen, a vegan restaurant known for its innovative use of local vegetables. The restaurant is a bit of a hidden gem, requiring advance reservations and offering a set menu that changes daily based on the availability of fresh produce. The setting was intimate and cozy, with only a few tables and a tranquil atmosphere. We were warmly greeted by the owner, who explained the menu and the philosophy behind the restaurant.


Experience the essence of Yakushima with innovative vegetarian dishes at A Heavenly Kitchen – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

The meal was a culinary journey, with each dish showcasing the vibrant flavors and textures of Yakushima's vegetables. We savored dishes like grilled eggplant with miso glaze, sweet potato tempura with ginger dipping sauce, and a hearty vegetable curry with brown rice. Hanna, who can be a bit picky with vegetables, surprised us by trying everything and even asking for seconds of the sweet potato tempura. The entire experience was a testament to the island's bounty and the creativity of its chefs.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our first impressions of Yakushima. The island had already captivated us with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. We were excited to delve deeper into its ancient forests and discover more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we plan to hike the Shiratani Unsui Gorge and see Wilson's Stump. I've packed my hiking boots and rain jacket, remembering my oversight with the portable phone charger – a lesson learned from my forgotten essentials.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and gazing at the starlit sky. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of the ocean and the forest. Yakushima felt like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Heidelberg, a sanctuary where we could reconnect with nature and with each other. I am so glad we decided to come here as a family. I can already tell that this will be a trip we will remember for years to come.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Shiratani Unsui Gorge and Wilson's Stump, so I'm sure I'll have plenty to share then. I also want to try the Cafe＆Bar RainTree. Stay tuned for more adventures in Yakushima!

As I sign off for the night, I'm filled with anticipation for what tomorrow holds. Yakushima has already cast its spell on us, and I can't wait to uncover more of its secrets.

Until tomorrow,
Yoo-Jin

P.S. I almost forgot! We also stopped by a local shop to pick up some bug spray, remembering that we had forgotten it at home. It's always the little things that can make or break a trip!