Enchanting Yakushima: A Journey into Japan's Ancient Forests

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

Today was a day of profound connection with nature and the warm spirit of Yakushima. It began with a gentle awakening to the sounds of the island, setting the stage for a day dedicated to understanding and appreciating the delicate balance of life that thrives here. From the serene beaches to the bustling local shops and restaurants, every moment was a reminder of the unique charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our day started early with a hearty breakfast at Matsutake. The soba noodles were exactly what we needed to fuel up for the day's adventures. I opted for the hot soba, while David chose the cold zaru soba. Sipping the warm broth, I felt a sense of anticipation for what the day held. Matsutake is a gem; a traditional Japanese soba restaurant with very good prices. The owners were incredibly nice and polite.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.

After breakfast, we headed to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. As a translator, I am always fascinated by the unique aspects of different cultures, and the dedication to sea turtle conservation here is truly inspiring. The hall is a small but informative museum, offering clear explanations about sea turtles and the conservation efforts in place. The knowledgeable manager was passionate about his work, and it was infectious. We even got to see some adorable baby turtles hatched on a local beach!


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

The beauty of Yakushima lies not only in its ancient forests but also in its commitment to preserving the delicate balance of its coastal ecosystems.

Learning about the life cycle of loggerhead and green turtles was fascinating. It's incredible to think that these creatures travel thousands of miles to nest on the very beaches where they were born. The museum had interactive displays and hands-on objects, making it engaging for all ages. I was particularly moved by the stories of the challenges these turtles face, from predators to plastic pollution. It reinforced my commitment to sustainable tourism and responsible travel.

Next, we visited Inakahama Beach, one of Japan's major sea turtle nesting grounds. The beach is beautiful, with white sand stretching about a kilometer. As it's June, it is turtle nesting season, so access to the beach is restricted at night to protect these magnificent creatures. We took a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoying the sea breeze and the stunning views of the ocean. The beach was registered under UNESCO’s Ramsar Convention in 2005. Knowing that this beach is a sanctuary for sea turtles made the experience even more special.


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

For lunch, we decided to try Kamogawa Restaurant. This place was bustling with both locals and tourists, a testament to its popularity. We were lucky to get a table without a long wait. David ordered one of the yoshoku sets, which included a large, deep-fried shrimp. I opted for the sashimi special set, and it was absolutely delicious. The portions were generous, and the fish was incredibly fresh. It was a delightful culinary experience.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

After lunch, we decided to do some souvenir shopping. We stopped by Pukaridō, a gift shop near Yakushima Airport. They had a delightful selection of Yakushima products, from snacks and sweets to Yakusugi handicrafts. I found a beautiful bracelet made of Yakusugi wood and natural stone. It’s a perfect reminder of our time on this magical island. David picked up some local shochu to take back home to share with friends.


Explore Pukaridō in Yakushima for unique souvenirs and local liquors, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our ryokan, feeling grateful for the experiences we had. For dinner, we went to At Pesca, a local restaurant known for its seafood. The meal was delicious, a perfect end to a perfect day. The flying fish was an absolute delight. David enjoyed a pizza, and said the crust was amazing.


Experience fast food like never before at At Pesca in Yakushima – where local flavors meet quick service in a delightful setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Senpiro Falls and the Yakushima Museum of History and Folklore. I'm particularly excited about Senpiro Falls; I have seen pictures and they look so powerful and majestic. It will be another opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Yakushima.

Reflecting on the day, I am reminded of the importance of responsible travel. Yakushima is a treasure, and it is our responsibility to protect it. By supporting local businesses, respecting the environment, and learning about the culture, we can ensure that future generations will also have the opportunity to experience the magic of this island. It is a privilege to witness the nesting and hatching of sea turtles, and to contribute to their conservation. As we continue our journey, I am committed to seeking out experiences that promote sustainability and cultural understanding.

As I sit here writing this, I can hear the gentle sounds of the island outside my window. The memories of today are etched in my mind – the adorable baby turtles, the taste of fresh sashimi, and the warmth of the local people. Yakushima is more than just a destination; it is an experience that touches the soul. It is a place where nature and culture intertwine, creating a tapestry of beauty that is both captivating and inspiring. And to think that I get to share this with David makes it even more special. It is a reminder of why we travel – to connect with the world, to learn, and to grow. And I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Maybe I should get some insect repellent, though. Those mosquitos were relentless today!