Family Adventure in the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima

Guardians of the Sea and Shores of Peace

Today was a day dedicated to the gentle giants of the sea and the tranquil beauty of Yakushima's coastline. It’s amazing how much you can learn and appreciate when you slow down and connect with nature, especially when you share it with your family. Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from the simplest of encounters.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at hiyoriya. This small restaurant is tucked away from the main road and looks just like a regular house. They serve organic and mostly vegetarian cuisine. Luckily, I had made a reservation because the place is quite small, with space for only about 10 guests. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast, savoring the delicate flavors and fresh ingredients. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us for the adventures that lay ahead.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Hiyoriya in Yakushima, where fresh local ingredients meet traditional flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.

With our bellies full, we set off to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. This hall is dedicated to educating visitors about the sea turtles that inhabit the waters around Yakushima and promoting conservation efforts. As someone deeply passionate about sustainable living and preserving natural habitats, I was eager to learn more. Lila, with her ever-curious mind, was especially excited.


Experience the beauty and conservation of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, a must-visit museum for nature lovers.

The Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall is a small but informative museum. The exhibits were well-curated, with interactive displays and informative panels detailing the life cycles, habitats, and challenges faced by these magnificent creatures. We learned about the different species of sea turtles that nest on Yakushima's shores, particularly the loggerhead turtles. The hall also highlighted the importance of the local environment and sustainable practices in preserving this unique ecosystem.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from the simplest of encounters.

The manager of the hall was incredibly knowledgeable, providing clear and engaging explanations about the turtles and their conservation. Lila was captivated by the adorable two-month-old baby turtles hatched on the local beach. It was heartwarming to see her connect with these creatures and understand the importance of protecting their habitat. The admission fee supports conservation efforts for the turtles and their eggs, which made our visit even more meaningful.

After immersing ourselves in the world of sea turtles, we decided to spend the afternoon at Inakahama Beach. Known as a prime nesting site for loggerhead turtles, this beach is a beautiful and peaceful stretch of sandy shore on the northwest side of Yakushima. As we drove towards the beach, the scenery was breathtaking, with lush greenery and mountains rising in the distance.


Experience the tranquility of Inakahama Beach in Yakushima, where breathtaking sunsets and crystal-clear waters await every traveler.

Arriving at Inakahama Beach, we were greeted by a kilometer-long strip of soft, white sand and clear blue waters. The beach was relatively uncrowded, allowing us to fully appreciate its tranquil ambiance. Although it is August, the nesting season is between May and July, so we knew we would not see any turtles. We spread out our beach blanket and soaked in the sun.

Lila was thrilled to play in the sand, building sandcastles and collecting seashells. Hans-Peter, ever the photographer, captured the picturesque setting with his camera. I simply relaxed and enjoyed the gentle breeze and the sound of the waves. The beach is not a designated swimming beach because of its sudden depth and fast current. But we paddled in the shallow water and enjoyed the refreshing coolness.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a stroll along the beach. We noticed some plastic waste, which was a stark reminder of the global pollution crisis. It reinforced my commitment to sustainable travel and reducing our environmental footprint. I made a mental note to bring a reusable bag on our next beach visit to collect any trash we find.

Before leaving Inakahama Beach, we took a moment to watch the sunset. The sky was painted with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop against the ocean. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with learning, relaxation, and natural beauty.

For lunch, we had planned to try the Subarashi Indian Restaurant. I had read many positive reviews about their Nepalese and Indian cuisine. I was also happy to see that they have many options for vegetarians. Unfortunately, when we arrived we discovered they only accept cash. We did not have enough cash with us, so we had to change our plans. So, we ended up grabbing a quick bite at a local shop instead.


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

In the evening, we had dinner at Iso no Kaori, a popular sushi and sashimi restaurant. Located on the main road north of Anbo, this restaurant is known for its fresh fish and authentic atmosphere. I had made a reservation in advance, as it tends to get fully booked. The restaurant has tatami mats for seating, which added to the traditional Japanese experience.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Iso no Kaori in Yakushima - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.

We ordered a variety of sushi and sashimi, savoring the delicate flavors and textures of the fresh seafood. The staff was friendly and explained the types of fish on the sashimi platter with picture cards, which was helpful. Lila enjoyed the fried sweet potato, which was super tasty. Hans-Peter tried the local tankan juice, a citrus fruit unique to Yakushima. Overall, it was a delightful culinary experience.

After dinner, we stopped by The North Face store. I needed to pick up some sunscreen and insect repellent, which I had forgotten to pack. The store had a good selection of outdoor gear and clothing, as well as some Yakushima-exclusive items. I purchased a T-shirt as a souvenir.


Explore the great outdoors with premium sportswear from The North Face, your premier gear destination in Yakushima's stunning landscapes.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. From the educational visit to the Sea Turtle Hall to the relaxing afternoon at Inakahama Beach and the delicious dinner at Iso no Kaori, it was a day filled with discovery and appreciation for Yakushima's natural beauty. I am grateful for these moments shared with my family, creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper connection with the world around us.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Yakusugi Land and see the Daio Sugi, another ancient cedar. I am excited to venture deeper into the island's forests and witness more of its natural wonders. I am also looking forward to trying some local specialties for lunch at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” I hope tomorrow brings us a rewarding view!

I am also looking forward to trying some local specialties for lunch at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. To end the day, we will visit Ambar, a local bar. I am excited to try some local drinks and experience the nightlife of Yakushima.