Family Adventure in Yakushima: Exploring Nature's Paradise

Nature's Embrace and Local Charms in Yakushima

Today was a day of diving deeper into Yakushima's natural beauty and discovering the local artistry that makes this island so unique. From cascading waterfalls to handcrafted treasures, every moment felt like a step further into the heart of this enchanting place. It's days like these that remind me why we chose Yakushima for our family adventure – a place where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly.


Our Sunday began with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. Liam and Nadia were excited, knowing that a day of exploration awaited us. I always find airport restaurants fascinating; they're a crossroads of people from all walks of life, each with their own story and destination. This one was no exception, buzzing with early morning travelers fueling up for their own adventures. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Liam enjoyed a Western-style toast and coffee. Nadia, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring a bowl of rice with miso soup. It's moments like these, sharing a simple meal, that make traveling with family so special.


Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Yakushima National Park. The park itself is a sprawling expanse of ancient forests, rugged mountains, and pristine rivers. Given our limited time, we decided to focus on the trails near Ryujin Falls. The weather was kind to us, with cloudy skies and a comfortable temperature in the low 70s. We made sure to pack our rain gear, just in case, as Yakushima is known for its frequent showers.


The drive to Ryujin Falls was scenic, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the coastline. The entrance to Ryujin Falls is easily accessible from the main road. The walk to the falls was short, just a few minutes along a well-maintained path. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. Ryujin Falls, though not the tallest waterfall on the island, possesses a serene beauty. The water cascades down about 30 meters, surrounded by verdant foliage, creating a tranquil oasis. Nadia was particularly fascinated, exclaiming that it looked like a dragon's tears, which is fitting considering Ryujin means Dragon God. Liam, ever the photographer, busied himself capturing the scene from various angles. I simply stood and absorbed the moment, feeling the cool mist on my face and the calming energy of the falls.



Explore the breathtaking Ryujin Falls in Yakushima, a natural wonder surrounded by lush forests and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.

Nature's beauty is a gift, and it's our responsibility to cherish and preserve it for future generations.

After spending a good hour at Ryujin Falls, we continued our exploration of Yakushima National Park. We opted for a short hike along one of the many trails, choosing one that was relatively easy, given Nadia's little legs. There are many beautiful hiking trails in Yakushima both long and short. We learned about the different trails available, from easy courses suitable for children to longer, more challenging hikes. We chose a trail that meandered through a cedar forest, allowing us to marvel at the ancient trees that Yakushima is famous for. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and moss, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Nadia was thrilled to spot a Yakushima macaque monkey in the distance, its reddish-brown fur blending seamlessly with the forest. It was a reminder of the island's rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving its natural habitats.


By lunchtime, we were all feeling peckish. We drove to the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, eager to sample some local cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, adorned with local artwork and crafts. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the Yakushima flying fish set menu. The presentation was beautiful, and the taste was even better. The flying fish was grilled to perfection, and the accompanying side dishes were flavorful and fresh. Nadia, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish, declaring it tasted like chicken. Liam and I savored every bite, appreciating the unique flavors of Yakushima. It's always a joy to discover new culinary delights, especially when they're made with fresh, local ingredients.



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

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at YAKUSHIMA BLESS. The shop's clean, minimalist aesthetic immediately caught my eye. Inside, we found a curated collection of handcrafted goods, all made with local materials. I was particularly drawn to the wooden cedar blocks and decorative vases, each piece a testament to the island's artistic talent. Nadia was fascinated by the mononoke brooches shaped like skulls, while Liam admired the intricate woodblock prints. I ended up purchasing a beautiful Yakushima Memo Pad, made using cedar trees grown from saplings, as well as some Yakushima cedar incense. It felt good to support local artisans and take home a piece of Yakushima's unique culture.



Explore Yakushima Bless: A vibrant shopping mall showcasing local artistry, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs from the beautiful island of Yakushima.

Our final stop for the day was the Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan for dinner. This bustling market is a must-visit for food and souvenir enthusiasts. The restaurant offers a variety of local dishes, and there's also a souvenir store where you can find unique mementos. We opted for a selection of grilled dishes and sashimi, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The grilled exocet (flying fish) was a particular highlight, its smoky flavor a perfect complement to the fresh sashimi. Nadia enjoyed a bowl of udon noodles, while Liam sampled some local sake. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, filled with locals and tourists alike. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.



Discover Yakushima's culinary treasures and unique souvenirs at Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan - where local flavors meet island charm.

As the sun began to set, we drove back to our guesthouse, reflecting on the day's adventures. We talked about Ryujin Falls, YAKUSHIMA BLESS, and all the amazing food we ate. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that we'll cherish for years to come. Even though I had forgotten the bug spray and portable charger, we made the most of it.


Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of Yakushima's natural wonders, with a visit to Daio Sugi and Meoto Sugi, two more of the island's ancient cedar trees. We might even stop by Cafe＆Bar RainTree for a refreshing drink. Until then, I'll savor the memories of today, the cascading waters, the fragrant cedar, and the warmth of the Yakushima spirit.


“The best journey in life is the journey back to yourself.” I feel like this trip is helping me rediscover myself, as well as teaching Nadia about the beautiful world we live in.