Discovering the Enchanting Forests of Yakushima with Family

Ofuro and Overlooks: A Day of Yakushima's Wonders

Today was a beautiful blend of relaxation and exploration, perfectly capturing the essence of Yakushima. After several days of intense hiking, Aishath and I decided to intersperse some downtime with our sightseeing. It’s important to balance adventure with moments of calm, especially when traveling with Ibrahim. Today was all about enjoying Yakushima’s contrasting offerings: the tranquility of its coastal onsen and the grandeur of its mountain vistas.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. While airport food isn't usually something to write home about, this place had a certain charm. It was bustling with early morning travelers, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set – grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and some pickled vegetables. Aishath chose a lighter option with toast and fruit, while Ibrahim, ever the predictable one, went for a bowl of rice with nori. Fuelled up, we were ready to embrace the day's adventures.

Our first stop was the much-anticipated Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen. This unique onsen is only accessible during low tide, making it a truly special experience. We timed our visit perfectly, arriving just as the tide receded, revealing the natural rock pools filled with warm, mineral-rich water. The concept of an onsen right by the ocean was new to my Maldivian sensibilities, where the ocean is more for swimming and less for hot soaking. As Maldivians, we are used to the sea, but not like this. This was a completely different experience.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a unique outdoor hot spring retreat on Yakushima Island, surrounded by nature's splendor.

The raw, unfiltered beauty of Yakushima is a constant reminder of nature's power and artistry.

The experience was invigorating! Soaking in the warm water while listening to the waves crash nearby was incredibly soothing. Aishath found it particularly relaxing, remarking how the minerals seemed to melt away any lingering muscle tension from our previous hikes. Ibrahim, initially hesitant about the idea of an open-air bath, quickly warmed up to it, splashing around gently and marveling at the tiny crabs that scurried across the rocks. It’s a mixed bath, and while swimsuits aren’t allowed, people generally use small towels for modesty. It was a bit of a different experience for us, but we embraced it and enjoyed the natural setting.

After our rejuvenating onsen experience, we drove towards Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, eager to hike to Taiko-iwa, also known as Drum Rock. The drive itself was stunning, with lush greenery on either side of the road. We parked the car and began our ascent, the trail winding through the ancient forest, the air thick with the scent of cedar and moss. The hike was moderately challenging, but the anticipation of the view from the top kept us motivated. Ibrahim, to my surprise, was a real trooper, navigating the rocky terrain with impressive agility.


Explore the breathtaking Taiko-iwa, a spectacular hiking destination in Yakushima, offering stunning views, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance.

As we climbed higher, the forest canopy began to thin, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. Finally, we reached Taiko-iwa, a massive granite boulder perched atop the mountain. The view was simply breathtaking. From our vantage point, we could see the Oku-dake mountain range, including Miyanoura-dake, the highest peak in Yakushima. The panoramic vista was awe-inspiring, a sea of green stretching as far as the eye could see. The wind whipped around us, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. It was a moment of pure serenity, a feeling of being on top of the world.

Ibrahim was fascinated by the rock itself, which gets its name from the drum-like sound it produces when struck. He spent a good ten minutes carefully tapping different spots, trying to find the perfect resonance. Aishath and I simply sat and absorbed the view, grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty together.

After descending from Taiko-iwa, we were all quite hungry. We headed to Yakushima Gallery Restaurant for a late lunch. The restaurant had a cozy, artistic vibe, with local artwork adorning the walls. I opted for a seafood pasta, eager to sample the local catch, while Aishath chose a vegetarian curry. Ibrahim, predictably, ordered a hamburger. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was relaxing, a welcome respite after our hike.


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

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip, we decided to explore a different facet of Yakushima's culture. We stopped by Yakushima No Kokusan Tatami Nakajima Tatami Shop. I’ve always been fascinated by the craftsmanship involved in making tatami mats, a staple of Japanese homes. The shop was a treasure trove of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The artisan, whose family has been making tatami mats for generations, showed us the intricate process of weaving the mats, explaining the different materials and techniques involved. I was particularly impressed by the precision and attention to detail that went into each mat. We ended up buying a small tatami mat as a souvenir, a reminder of the island's rich cultural heritage. I thought of my parents back in Naifaru, and how much they would have appreciated this level of craftsmanship. Perhaps, I will ship this to them as a gift.


Discover the artistry of tatami making at Yakushima No Kokusan Tatami Nakajima Tatami Shop, a cultural gem on Yakushima Island.

For dinner, we decided to try SamPotei, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with locals, a sure sign of its quality. We ordered a selection of dishes – grilled fish, sashimi, and some local vegetable dishes. The seafood was incredibly fresh, bursting with flavor. Ibrahim even tried a small piece of sashimi, much to our surprise, and declared that he liked it. It was a delightful end to a day filled with diverse experiences.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.

As we head back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day. Yakushima has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and cultural richness. The combination of the Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, the hike to Taiko-iwa, the visit to the tatami shop, and the delicious local cuisine created a day that we will cherish for a long time. It’s these kinds of experiences that make traveling with family so rewarding, creating lasting memories that we can share for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ryujin Falls and the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. I am particularly excited about seeing the sea turtles, as marine conservation is something I am passionate about. It will be a fitting end to our Yakushima adventure, a chance to learn more about the island's unique ecosystem and the efforts being made to protect it.

The only thing I forgot to pack was insect repellent, and the mosquitoes were quite active in the forest today. A minor inconvenience, but one I will rectify before our next adventure. Otherwise, I am grateful for the experiences and the memories we are creating as a family.

Good night from Yakushima!