Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Coastal Delights and Turtle Tales

Today was all about soaking up the sun, learning about sea turtles, and enjoying the unique flavors of Yakushima. It’s amazing how much this island has to offer in just one day!
After our adventures in the ancient forests, a change of pace was exactly what we needed, and today delivered that in spades.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Iso no Kaori in Anbo. Knowing how popular it is, we made sure to get there early. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and pickled vegetables. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the miso soup was the perfect way to start the day. David went for the sushi platter and was not disappointed. The sashimi was fresh, and the staff even explained the types of fish with picture cards. I made a mental note to try the fried flying fish next time.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Iso no Kaori in Yakushima - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
With our bellies full and energy levels high, we headed to Inakahama Beach. This beach is famous as a nesting site for sea turtles, and I was excited to see it for myself. The beach itself is stunning, with white sand and clear blue water. The waves were quite strong, which made it fun for swimming and splashing around. We spent a good couple of hours just relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. August in Yakushima is wonderfully warm, making it ideal for beach days. I made sure to reapply sunscreen regularly, a lesson learned from past trips!


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

Sometimes, the most memorable days are the ones filled with simple pleasures: sun-kissed skin, the taste of local delicacies, and the wonder of encountering wildlife in their natural habitat.

After our relaxing beach time, we decided to visit the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. I was eager to learn more about these amazing creatures and the conservation efforts in place to protect them. The museum is small but informative, with exhibits on the life cycle, habitat, and threats facing sea turtles. The manager was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, providing clear and engaging explanations. We even got to see some baby turtles that had hatched on the local beach. It was heartwarming to see these tiny creatures and learn about the work being done to ensure their survival. Jasmine would have loved this, and I made a note to bring her here when we return as a family.


Discover the enchanting world of sea turtles at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, where conservation meets education in a beautiful island setting.
Lunch was at Matsutake, a soba noodle house that came highly recommended by locals. It's a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away behind another house, but it was well worth the effort to find it. The restaurant is in an old traditional Japanese building, with tatami floor seating. I ordered the cold soba noodles with tempura, and it was absolutely delicious. The noodles were homemade and fresh, and the tempura was perfectly crispy. David had the warm soba, which he equally enjoyed. The owners were incredibly kind and welcoming, making the experience even more special. I can see why this place is so popular!


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.
As the day wound down, we decided to check out Ganta, a local bar in Miyanoura. It’s known for being open late, which is a rarity on Yakushima. The atmosphere was lively, with a mix of locals and tourists. We enjoyed some local cocktails made with regional ingredients. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. David even tried his hand at the dartboard ! I chatted with the bartender, who shared some interesting stories about the island and its culture. I learned that Ganta is one of the few bars on the island that stays open late , making it a popular spot for those looking to extend their evening.


Discover Ganta, a lively bar in Yakushima offering local spirits and a warm atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
For dinner, we opted for Shiosai, known for its local seafood and generous portions. The restaurant was spacious, with multiple dining areas. The menu had English translations, which was helpful. I decided to try the flying fish karaage, a Yakushima specialty. It was crispy and flavorful, and I enjoyed it with the spicy oroshi (grated radish) and ponzu sauce. David went for the Wagyu beef fillet, which he said was cooked to perfection. We also shared a plate of sashimi, which was incredibly fresh. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese tempura at Shiosai in Yakushima—where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Tonight, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience Yakushima with my friends. Each day brings new adventures and discoveries, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow holds. We’re planning to visit the Yakusugi Museum and Yahazudake Shrine , which I’ve heard are both must-see attractions. I’m also looking forward to trying Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi for breakfast !

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” Tomorrow we are going to explore Yakusugi Museum and Yahazudake Shrine, before enjoying dinner at Yakushima Gallery Restaurant.