Family Adventure in Yakushima: Exploring Nature's Paradise

Guardians of the Shore: A Day with Yakushima's Sea Turtles

Today was a day dedicated to the incredible marine life that graces Yakushima's shores. It’s hard to believe we’re already on Day 5 of our family adventure! We embraced the island's commitment to preserving its natural wonders, and it was truly inspiring. This morning, we dove into the world of sea turtles, and this afternoon, we soaked up the sun on one of Yakushima's famed beaches.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. It's such a bustling spot! I enjoyed a comforting bowl of miso soup and some grilled fish, while Liam went for a traditional Japanese breakfast set. Nadia, of course, opted for rice balls shaped like little animals, which she devoured with glee. The market itself was alive with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample Yakushima's local produce and crafts. It's a great place to pick up some souvenirs, and I couldn't resist buying a small, hand-painted wooden turtle for Nadia to remember our trip.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. I was so excited; ever since learning about the island being a major nesting ground for loggerhead turtles, I knew we had to visit. The hall is a small but informative museum dedicated to the life cycle and conservation of these amazing creatures. We learned about the different species of sea turtles that visit Yakushima, their nesting habits, and the threats they face. Nadia was particularly fascinated by the displays showing the turtles' migratory routes across the Pacific.


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

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the opportunity to see the baby turtles. They were so tiny and fragile, yet full of life! It was heartwarming to learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these creatures and their nesting sites. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, answering all our questions with enthusiasm. It reinforced how crucial it is to respect their habitat, especially during nesting season. I made sure to remind Nadia about the importance of keeping the beaches clean and avoiding any disturbance to the turtles.

The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy.

From the Sea Turtle Hall, we headed to Inakahama Beach. Known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, it's also a significant nesting ground for sea turtles. As it is loggerhead turtle nesting season (spanning from May to August), Inakahama Beach is carefully monitored and protected. We were mindful of the guidelines in place to ensure the turtles' safety, keeping our distance from any marked nesting areas. The weather today was a bit unpredictable; the forecast called for isolated thunderstorms, and we did experience a brief shower. Thankfully, it passed quickly, leaving behind a fresh, clean scent in the air. The temperature was pleasant, around 25°C, perfect for a beach stroll.


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

Nadia was thrilled to run along the sandy shore, collecting seashells and chasing the gentle waves. Liam and I took turns building sandcastles with her, laughing as the tide washed them away. We even spotted a few people surfing further out, braving the slightly stronger currents. Although Inakahama isn't ideal for swimming due to its sudden depth and currents, it's a stunning place to relax and appreciate nature's beauty.

After our beach adventure, we were ready for a late lunch. We found a delightful little sushi restaurant called Wakadaisho. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the chef was so friendly, even offering us some extra goodies to try. Liam, ever the adventurous eater, sampled some raw venison, a local delicacy. I stuck to my usual salmon and avocado rolls, while Nadia happily munched on tamago (sweet egg omelet).


Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we stopped by Gallery KIANU. It was a charming little shop filled with local crafts and artwork. I was particularly drawn to the intricate woodwork, a testament to Yakushima's famed cedar trees. We ended up buying a small, hand-carved cedar ornament as a memento of our visit. It will be a nice reminder of the amazing craftsmanship of this island. I am always keen to support local artisans, wherever I go.


Explore Gallery KIANU in Yakushima: A treasure trove of local pottery and unique artisanal crafts awaits you.

Dinner was at Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter. I was intrigued by the name, and the reviews promised a unique dining experience. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a multi-course meal featuring local Yakushima ingredients prepared with innovative techniques. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime culinary journey, and I was grateful for the opportunity to savor such exquisite cuisine. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with incredible experiences.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Each Meal, an izakaya in Yakushima where every dish is a celebration of local culture and culinary artistry.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and conservation efforts of Yakushima. It's a reminder of the importance of protecting our planet's precious ecosystems for future generations. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park and the Yakushima Fruit Garden – “Papaya no Sato”. I am especially excited about the banyan park, as I've heard it's a magical place with ancient, sprawling trees. I am also hoping to sample some of the local fruit at the garden. Before that, we'll grab breakfast at Michikusa, followed by lunch at a heavenly kitchen. And in the evening, we might check out Ambar, a local bar, for a nightcap, if Nadia lets us out of her sight! Here's to more adventures tomorrow!

Today reminded me of a quote I once read:

We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch – we are going back from whence we came.

It encapsulates the deep connection we have with the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. I am so grateful to be sharing this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And now, dear readers, I must rest. Until tomorrow!