Family Adventure in the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

A Day of Coastal Views and Forest Aromas

Today was a delightful mix of coastal exploration and sensory experiences deep within Yakushima. It’s amazing how much this island packs into a single day. From the historic Yakushima-todai Lighthouse to the aromatic wonders of a local scent lab, every moment was a new discovery.


A historic lighthouse on Yakushima's coast offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's maritime past.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Michikusa. While the name is quite common in Japan, this particular Michikusa offered a cozy start to our adventures. I savored a traditional Japanese breakfast, which gave me the energy I needed for our morning explorations. Maximilian enjoyed a hearty portion of rice and grilled fish, while Hanna opted for a simpler, yet equally satisfying, bowl of miso soup. It's these small, shared moments over local cuisine that truly enrich our travel experiences.

Guiding Lights and Ocean Views

After breakfast, we set off for the Yakushima-todai Lighthouse. Driving along the coast, the views were simply breathtaking, with the turquoise waters of the Pacific stretching out before us. The lighthouse itself, a pristine white structure against the backdrop of the ocean and rugged cliffs, was a sight to behold.

Although we couldn't go inside, the grounds around the lighthouse were open, and we took a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths. The sea breeze was invigorating, and the panoramic views of the coastline were truly captivating. I could see Kouerrabu Island in the distance, and on the right, the vague outlines of the Mishima Islands and Kyushu mainland. It was easy to imagine the countless ships that this lighthouse has guided safely over the years.

The beauty of Yakushima lies not only in its grand landscapes but also in the subtle details that reveal themselves with each passing moment.

Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, was fascinated by the lighthouse's history, built in 1897 to protect maritime safety. Hanna, on the other hand, was more interested in spotting boats and identifying the different islands on the horizon. It was a perfect spot for some family photos, capturing the stunning scenery and our shared joy in exploring this beautiful island.

The Majesty of Senpiro Falls

Next on our itinerary was Senpiro Falls. As we drove inland, the landscape transformed from coastal cliffs to lush, green forests. The anticipation grew as we approached the falls, eager to witness the power and beauty of nature.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Senpiro Falls, a stunning waterfall in Yakushima surrounded by lush nature and serene landscapes.

The parking area was conveniently located, and from there, it was a short walk to the viewing platforms. The falls themselves were magnificent, a 60-meter cascade of water plunging into a jagged valley. The sheer size of the granite rock face, said to resemble a thousand people holding hands, was awe-inspiring.

Hanna was mesmerized by the waterfall, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the water plummet down. Maximilian and I took turns capturing the scene with our cameras, trying to convey the scale and grandeur of the falls. We learned that the Tainoko River formed the V-shaped valley at the foot of Mt. Mocchomu over many years.

I was a little disappointed that the walkway to get closer to the falls was inaccessible due to a landslide, but the view from the platforms was still incredible. We spent a good amount of time simply soaking in the atmosphere, listening to the roar of the water and feeling the cool mist on our faces. There are also two nearby viewing platforms that look out toward the sea.

Aromatic Discoveries at YAWARACA “The Scent of Yakushima LAB”

After the refreshing visit to Senpiro Falls, we decided to indulge in a unique sensory experience at YAWARACA “The Scent of Yakushima LAB”. I had read about this shop, and I was intrigued by the idea of capturing the essence of Yakushima in scent. It was a delightful sensory experience, a small shop filled with exquisite home goods and fragrances inspired by the island's natural beauty.


Explore YAWARACA in Yakushima for exquisite home goods that celebrate local craftsmanship and the island's natural beauty.

The shop offered a variety of scents, each carefully crafted to evoke a specific aspect of Yakushima. From the crisp, clean scent of the cedar forests to the salty tang of the ocean breeze, the fragrances were both evocative and unique. I ended up purchasing a small bottle of a cedarwood essential oil, hoping to bring a little piece of Yakushima back home with me to Heidelberg.

Hanna, surprisingly, was quite taken with the scents as well, carefully sniffing each bottle and offering her own opinions. Maximilian, ever practical, admired the craftsmanship of the wooden containers and the overall aesthetic of the shop. We ended up buying a few small souvenirs for friends and family, hoping to share a little bit of Yakushima's magic with them.

A Taste of India in Yakushima

For lunch, we ventured to Subarashi Indian Restaurant, a surprising find on this remote island. After days of traditional Japanese cuisine, we were in the mood for something different, and the positive reviews were too tempting to ignore.


Discover authentic Indian flavors at Subarashi Indian Restaurant in Yakushima, where tradition meets local charm.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with the aroma of spices filling the air. The menu offered a wide range of Indian and Nepalese dishes, including vegetarian options. I opted for a vegetable curry, while Maximilian chose a chicken tikka masala. Hanna, always a fan of naan bread, happily munched on a piece of garlic naan.

The food was delicious, flavorful, and satisfying. It was a welcome change of pace, and we all thoroughly enjoyed our meal. The service was friendly and efficient, and the prices were reasonable. It's always a pleasant surprise to find such diverse culinary offerings in unexpected places, and Subarashi was definitely a highlight of our day.

A Culinary Climax

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Each Meal, a Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter for dinner. The name itself was intriguing, and I was curious to see what this restaurant had in store for us.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Each Meal, an izakaya in Yakushima where every dish is a celebration of local culture and culinary artistry.

The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a unique and memorable dining experience. The chef clearly had a passion for local ingredients, and each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. We savored every bite, appreciating the care and attention that went into each course.

Maximilian and I enjoyed some local Yakushima shochu, while Hanna was thrilled with her dessert, a delicate creation featuring local fruits and ice cream. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with exploration, discovery, and culinary delights. There are no convenience stores open 24 hours, so it is best to plan ahead.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Ohko Waterfall and delve deeper into the Yakushima National Park. I am particularly excited about seeing Ohko Waterfall, as I have heard it is one of Japan's top waterfalls. We might even stop by Ambar for a drink in the evening. I'm sure tomorrow will bring even more unforgettable experiences, and I can't wait to share them with you all. I am also making sure to bring bug spray tomorrow, as I forgot it today!