Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Coastal Views and Waterfall Wonders

Today was all about embracing Yakushima's diverse beauty, from its rugged coastlines to its cascading waterfalls. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the thrill of discovery, the connection with nature, and the simple joy of sharing it all with friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at hiyoriya. I was excited to try this small vegan restaurant. Knowing that it offered macrobiotic options, I made sure to call ahead to make a reservation. It was a small restaurant with a lovely atmosphere. I ordered the daily special and enjoyed the vegan cuisine.

Fueled up for the day, our first stop was the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse. The drive there was quite the experience in itself, with narrow roads winding along the coast. The lighthouse stands proudly at the tip of Nagata Cape, offering magnificent views of the surrounding ocean. From there, we could vaguely see Kouerrabu Island, the Mishima Islands, and even the mainland of Kyushu. I even climbed over the wall in front of the tower and found a small, hidden shrine. I took a moment to soak in the panoramic views, feeling grateful for the clear skies and the stunning natural beauty that stretched out before us.


Explore the breathtaking Yakushima-todai Lighthouse, a stunning landmark surrounded by the natural beauty of Yakushima Island, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The beauty of Yakushima lies not just in its grand vistas, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature.

Next on our itinerary was the Ohko Waterfall, one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls. As we approached, the sound of the cascading water grew louder, building anticipation. The waterfall is easily accessible from the parking lot, making it a breeze to reach. The sight of the water plunging 88 meters into the emerald-green pool below was truly breathtaking. We walked as close as we could, feeling the cool spray on our faces – a welcome refreshment in the August heat. The vibrant green surroundings added to the magical atmosphere, and I couldn't resist snapping a few photos to capture the moment.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohko Waterfall in Yakushima, a natural wonder amidst lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

For lunch, we headed to Wakadaisho in Miyanoura, known for its fresh seafood. The staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating, providing both English and Japanese menus. Liam, who’s always eager to try local delicacies, ordered a fish sashimi platter, while I opted for the tofu from Nagata factory. We also shared some flying fish tempura, which had a subtly sweet flavor that was absolutely delicious. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning adventures.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Pukaridō. Located a short walk from Yakushima Airport, this charming gift shop offers a variety of local products and Yakusugi handicrafts. I was particularly drawn to the Sunao Yakushima accessories, made with Yakusugi wood and natural stone. I ended up buying a beautiful bracelet as a souvenir, a little piece of Yakushima to take back home with me.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to a heavenly kitchen for dinner. This small plant-based restaurant is known for its use of local fruits and vegetables, and I was excited to experience their unique cuisine. The restaurant only has one table and is located in the owner's house, which added to the intimate and special atmosphere. I opted for one of their set menus, which included a sushi set and a mindfulness eating set with lyre music. The presentation was beautiful, and the flavors were exquisite – a perfect end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.


Experience the essence of Yakushima with innovative vegetarian dishes at A Heavenly Kitchen – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the island's treetop canopy walk and attempt to hike Mt. Miyanoura. I’ve heard the views from the summit are incredible, and I’m looking forward to the challenge. We’ll also be trying out Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan for breakfast, Matsutake for lunch, and Il Mare for dinner. And if we have time, we might stop by scale スケール(サップ＆バー) for a drink.

Yakushima continues to surprise and enchant me at every turn. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, and the simple act of exploring its landscapes is a deeply rewarding experience. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my friends. As Liam always says, Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.