Family Adventure in the Ancient Forests of Yakushima

Coastal Delights and Farewell Reflections

Today was a symphony of coastal experiences, a perfect blend of nature's wonders and local charm. As our family adventure in Yakushima nears its end, each moment feels precious, a memory to be savored. Today, we embraced the island's marine life and therapeutic waters, creating moments that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of local delicacies filled the air. Maximilian opted for the flying fish ramen, a local specialty, while Hanna enjoyed a simple yet satisfying bowl of rice with Yakushima pickles. I chose the Kamenote, eager to try another unique island dish. The restaurant itself was a delightful experience, doubling as a gallery showcasing Yakushima's artistic side. We admired the Yakusugi wooden crafts, each piece telling a story of the island's ancient forests.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall. The hall is a small but informative center dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles, which nest on Yakushima's beaches. We learned about the life cycle of these gentle creatures, from the moment they hatch to their long journeys across the ocean. Hanna was particularly fascinated by the baby turtles swimming in a small tank. The manager's passion for sea turtles was evident, and his explanations were both clear and engaging. We learned that Yakushima is one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles in the North Pacific.


Discover the wonders of marine conservation at Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall, dedicated to preserving sea turtles and their natural habitat.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from the simplest encounters, reminding us of the interconnectedness of life and the importance of preserving our natural world.

Leaving the Sea Turtle Hall, we headed to the Yakushima Market. This local market is a vibrant hub of island life, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts. The stalls were overflowing with seasonal fruits and vegetables, including the island's famous Yakushima oranges. We purchased some local tangerines, their sweet aroma filling our bags. Hanna was captivated by the colorful array of sweets, and we indulged in some sweet potato treats, a local delicacy. Maximilian, ever the curious one, struck up a conversation with a local fisherman, learning about the different types of fish found in the waters surrounding Yakushima. I found myself drawn to the handmade crafts, admiring the intricate wooden carvings and delicate textiles. The market was not just a place to shop; it was an immersion into the heart of Yakushima's culture.


Discover the vibrant Yakushima Market, where local crafts and fresh produce come together for an authentic shopping experience.

As the afternoon approached, it was time for our next adventure: Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen. This unique hot spring is located right by the ocean and is only accessible during low tide. We checked the tide times and arrived just as the pools were being exposed. The setting was breathtaking, with the rocky shores and the vast expanse of the sea surrounding the warm, mineral-rich waters.


Experience the wonder of Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen: a natural seaside hot spring in Yakushima, accessible only at low tide.

Before entering the onsen, we followed the local customs, washing ourselves with water from the smaller pools. As we soaked in the warm water, the gentle sounds of the waves created a tranquil atmosphere. The onsen is a mixed-gender bath, and while it was a new experience for us, we embraced the local culture. The therapeutic properties of the water were evident, and we felt our muscles relax and our minds unwind. Maximilian and I took turns watching Hanna so that each of us could enjoy the hot spring.

The sun began to set, painting the sky with beautiful colors. Soaking in the onsen as the sun dipped below the horizon was a magical experience, a perfect way to end our day of coastal exploration. We felt a deep connection with nature, a sense of peace and serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.

For dinner, we had a reservation at a heavenly kitchen. This unique restaurant is known for its vegan cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is a hidden gem, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The chef prepared a special menu for us, showcasing the best of Yakushima's vegetables. Each dish was a work of art, bursting with flavor and color. Hanna, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by devouring the vegetable tempura. The meal was a celebration of Yakushima's natural bounty, a testament to the island's commitment to sustainable living.


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

As we walked back to our guesthouse under the starlit sky, we reflected on our day of coastal adventures. We spoke of the sea turtles, the bustling market, the therapeutic onsen, and the delightful vegan cuisine. I am so glad we remembered to purchase a portable phone charger at the market, as my phone was nearly dead! Each experience had touched our hearts, creating memories that we will cherish forever. Tomorrow is our last day on Yakushima, and while we are sad to leave this enchanting island, we are grateful for the experiences we have shared as a family. We plan to visit the Yakushima Visitor Centre and the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center [If tomorrow is last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. As I write this, I can hear the gentle sounds of the ocean, a lullaby that will carry us to sleep. Yakushima, thank you for your beauty, your serenity, and your unforgettable experiences.

Our time on Yakushima has been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature and each other. As we prepare to leave this enchanting island, we carry with us memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we will visit the Yakushima Visitor Centre and the Yakushima Environmental and Cultural Village Center, eager to learn more about the island's unique ecosystem and cultural heritage. We also plan to visit Fisherman's Bar NINA, a local spot where we hope to share stories and laughter with the islanders. As our adventure draws to a close, we embrace the final moments, knowing that Yakushima will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

As I reflect on our journey, I am reminded of a quote by the Korean poet Ko Un:

Each departure is a birth; each arrival, a kind of death.

Tomorrow marks both an arrival and a departure. It is the arrival at the end of our Yakushima adventure and the departure towards new horizons. This trip has enriched our lives in ways we could never have imagined, and I am excited to share our final day with you all. Until then, goodnight from Yakushima.