Family Adventure in the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Whispers of the Waterfall and Ancient Trees

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Yakushima. It felt like stepping into a world where nature reigns supreme, a sentiment that resonates deeply with me as I seek solace and inspiration in the natural world. Away from my translation work and the familiar comforts of Heidelberg, I found myself utterly captivated by the island's majestic landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. The market buzzes with a local energy that I find infectious. Hanna was particularly excited by the variety of local produce, pointing at everything from the sweet potatoes to the vibrant citrus fruits. Maximilian and I enjoyed some traditional Japanese breakfast sets, fueling up for our day of exploration. It’s these simple, authentic experiences that truly enrich our travels. It was a great way to start the day before heading off to the waterfall.


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

Ohko Waterfall: A Symphony of Water and Stone

Our first stop was the Ohko Waterfall, one of Yakushima's most iconic natural landmarks. As we approached, the air grew cooler, filled with a fine mist that kissed our faces. The sound of the water grew louder, a powerful roar that vibrated through the very ground beneath our feet. It was easy to see why it's considered one of Japan's best waterfalls.

Reaching the viewing platform, we were greeted by the full majesty of Ohko Waterfall. The water plunged from a height of 88 meters, a sheer drop of breathtaking power. The scene was mesmerizing, with the sunlight catching the spray, creating rainbows that danced in the air. Hanna was awestruck, her eyes wide with wonder as she pointed at the cascading water. Maximilian, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the sheer force and volume of the water. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such raw natural power. The waterfall is easily accessible, with just a short walk from the parking area. The lush greenery surrounding the falls added to the sense of tranquility, making it a perfect spot for reflection.


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

Nature's beauty is a symphony that plays on the strings of our soul.

Yakushima National Park: An Ancient Forest Awakens

After the invigorating experience at Ohko Waterfall, we ventured into the heart of Yakushima National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to understand why. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from coastal forests to towering mountain peaks. But it's the ancient cedar forests that truly capture the imagination.

As we hiked deeper into the park, the landscape transformed. Towering Yakusugi cedars, some over a thousand years old, loomed overhead, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and ancient wood, a fragrance that spoke of centuries of undisturbed growth. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the moss-covered forest floor. It felt like stepping back in time, into a world untouched by the modern age.


Explore the ancient forests and breathtaking landscapes of Yakushima National Park, a jewel of Japan's natural heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hanna, usually so full of energy, became unusually quiet, her gaze fixed upwards at the towering trees. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the resilience and longevity of these ancient giants. As for me, I felt a profound sense of connection to the natural world, a feeling of being part of something larger than myself. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated awe.

We spent hours exploring the park, following winding trails that led us past ancient cedars, crystal-clear streams, and moss-covered boulders. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, though we only caught glimpses of shy deer and playful monkeys. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, losing yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the forest.

A Culinary Journey: Local Flavors of Yakushima

For lunch, we stopped at Kotobuki, a restaurant recommended for its authentic local cuisine. Finding it was a bit of an adventure itself, tucked away off the main road with a charming, castle-like walkway. We had booked in advance, and were treated to a set menu that showcased the fresh, seasonal ingredients of Yakushima. The food was simple but delicious, each dish bursting with flavor. It was a welcome respite after our morning of hiking.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine and delightful sweets at Kotobuki in Yakushima—where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

In the evening, after a day immersed in nature, we chose to experience SamPotei for dinner. The riverside setting was lovely, and the food was a delightful mix of local and international flavors. We enjoyed fresh seafood and smoked flying fish, all while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the restaurant.


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

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Ambar, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. Sipping on local spirits, we reflected on the day's adventures. It was the perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the lively dart bar culture at Ambar in Yakushima, where fun, friendship, and refreshing drinks await every night.

Looking Ahead: Banyan Trees and Tropical Fruits

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park, where I'm eager to see the unique banyan trees [Shitoko Gajumaru Banyan Park]. Afterwards, we'll explore the Yakushima Fruit Garden, also known as “Papaya no Sato” [Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”]. I'm particularly excited to try some of the local tropical fruits [Yakushima Fruit Garden - “Papaya no Sato”]. For dinner, we’re planning to visit the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant, hoping to soak in some local art and cuisine [Yakushima Gallery Restaurant]. Before that we plan to visit Wood Shop Kikori, to look at some local woodcraft [Wood Shop Kikori].

Yakushima continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, where ancient forests whisper secrets of the past, and where every day brings a new adventure. I am so glad we decided to include this destination in our family travels. I am also glad that we remembered to pack our rain jackets, as the weather can change quite quickly. I am a little disappointed that I forgot my portable phone charger and bug spray, but I will try to get them tomorrow. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

October in Yakushima offers a unique blend of warm temperatures and moderate rainfall, creating ideal conditions for exploring the island's natural wonders. Daytime temperatures hover around a pleasant 25°C, while the humidity remains comfortable. Although there's a chance of rain, it often adds to the lushness and vibrancy of the landscape. This season provides excellent hiking conditions, with clear blue skies and good visibility.