5 Memorable Souvenirs from Yakushima Island

Thursday, March 27, 2025

5 Memorable Souvenirs from Yakushima Island

After spending five unforgettable days exploring Yakushima Island, I returned to the U.S. with some unique souvenirs that capture the charm and essence of this magical place. Today, I’m excited to share five of the most memorable souvenirs from my trip, each with its own special story and connection to Yakushima.

1. Yakushima Wooden Charm

Got at the Bus Stop to Arakawa Tozanguchi

Yakushima Wooden Charm

Before embarking on the Jomon Sugi Trail, we contributed 1000 yen to the Mountain Area Environmental Conservation Cooperation Fee (部環境保全協力金) and received these beautiful wooden charms as a token of appreciation. This fee plays a crucial role in preserving Yakushima’s pristine natural environment, particularly its mountainous regions, supporting sustainable tourism and maintaining safe hiking trails. These charms not only symbolize our contribution to conservation efforts but also serve as a meaningful reminder of Yakushima’s unique and fragile ecosystem.

2. Yakusugi Bookmark

165 yen

Purchased at Pontan-kan

Yakusugi Bookmark

My husband purchased this delicate Yakusugi Bookmark for 165 yen at Pontan-kan (ぽん・たん館). Crafted from the rare and ancient Yakusugi cedar, this bookmark showcases the wood’s stunning grain patterns and remarkable durability. Known for its historical significance and natural beauty, Yakusugi cedar makes this bookmark more than just a practical item—it’s a timeless keepsake that holds a piece of Yakushima’s unique heritage.

3. Yakushima Traditional Smoked Mackerel (屋久島スモーク鯖)

530 yen

Purchased at Pontan-kan

Yakushima Traditional Smoked Mackerel

We bought this Yakushima Traditional Smoked Mackerel for 530 yen at Pontan-kan (ぽん・たん館) and picked up several more to share with our coworkers and friends. It's made from blue mackerel freshly caught in the waters surrounding Yakushima and carefully processed on the island, this delicacy boasts a rich, smoky flavor. We paired it with soy sauce and Japanese mayonnaise, which elevated its taste even further. It also made a perfect complement to a crisp salad, adding a delightful touch of Yakushima’s culinary tradition to our meal.

4. Yakushima Wooden Fridge Magnet

1540 yen

Purchased at Gift Shop at Yakushima Airport

Yakushima Wooden Fridge Magnet

We purchased this Yakushima Wooden Fridge Magnet for 1540 yen at Yakushima Airport. Crafted from the rare and ancient Yakusugi cedar. I placed it on my laundry machine, where it’s a lovely reminder of my unforgettable trip to Yakushima and the memories I made there.

5. Yakusugi Chopstick Rest

Got at Yakushima Airport

Yakusugi Chopstick rest

While waiting at Yakushima Airport, a friendly female staff member approached me and asked for my feedback on my trip to the island. Filling out the short survey only took about five minutes, and as a thank-you, I received this lovely chopstick rest made from Yakusugi cedar. This small but meaningful item highlights Yakushima’s appreciation for visitors’ input and serves as a tangible memory of my journey to this extraordinary island.