A relaxing trip where you can enjoy the blessings of the sea and mountains of Yakushima, safe even for families with children

Maybe you'll even see some sea turtles? Early summer sea activities

ULTRA MARINE

SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) is a water activity that is becoming increasingly popular in Japan. Stand Up Paddleboard is a sport where you stand on a board like a surfboard and paddle to move across the water. At first glance, it may seem difficult to balance, but with a little practice it's easy. Children, who have a lower center of gravity than adults, can master it in no time.

The dazzling green river with evergreen broad-leaved trees on both sides is lovely, but the sea in early summer offers a unique treat. June and July are sea turtle nesting season, so you're more likely to encounter sea turtles. According to Kawada Yoshito of "ULTRA MARINE," which provides SUP and snorkeling services, "Due to conditions such as waves and wind, there are only a limited number of days when you can go SUP in the sea, but if you can get out to the sea, there is a very high chance of seeing sea turtles in early summer." You can choose a combination of SUP and snorkeling, or a course that only involves snorkeling.

Showers and rest areas are free! A calm beach with overwhelmingly clear water.

Isminato Beach

For those who prefer a more relaxed time over active activities, or for children who think SUP is a little too early, we recommend beaches with gentle waves. Isminato Beach in the north of the island has high water clarity, receiving the highest rank of AA in a water quality survey by Kagoshima Prefecture, making it the perfect place for babies to take their first swim in the ocean. Changing rooms open in July, but you can see people enjoying swimming here and there from around May.

This may be unthinkable in the city, but Yakushima's beaches have rest areas, shower rooms, changing rooms, and even free parking. In addition, there are lifeguards on duty during the summer vacation period, so you can feel safe.

You can play in the sea or relax on the beach while munching on shaved ice at the beach hut. The sun is strong, so it is recommended for small children to come in the evening or on a slightly cloudy day. On sunny days, don't forget to take measures against heat stroke with a rash guard and a hat.

There is also a kids' space. Take your time to choose healthy island souvenirs.

Tsubaki store

About 20 minutes by car east along the coast from Isminato Beach, in the Miyanoura area, the gateway to the sea of Yakushima, is Tsubaki Shoten, a store that sells natural foods and miscellaneous goods. At the back of the store, there is a small kids' space where parents can take their time browsing for souvenirs while their children are engrossed in toys and picture books.

Yakushima-grown pesticide-free green tea and herbal tea make great souvenirs for friends and colleagues, while local pottery and woodcrafts are great souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip. Not only do they taste great, but the packaging is also beautiful, so it's hard to decide.

For those staying long term in cottages with kitchens, the condiments and spices sold by weight are convenient. Beauty foods such as chia seeds and dates are also available, making them a great ally for an eco-friendly and healthy trip to Yakushima.

Experience the majestic flow of the island's waters. A stroller-friendly waterfall

Chihiro Falls

"When it rains, go waterfall-hopping" is a standard part of traveling to Yakushima. Rainy days are a chance to experience the dynamic water movement on the island. Among the many waterfalls on Yakushima, the one that stands out the most is Senpiro Falls in the southeast of the island, with its beautiful appearance as it slides down a huge rock face.

The road from the parking lot to the falls is well-maintained, so you can reach the spectacular view safely even if you are carrying a baby or using a stroller. The observation deck overlooking the sea at the entrance to the parking lot also offers a spectacular view, so don't forget to check it out.

Next to the parking lot is a mobile juice stand called "Chihiro no Shizuku" that only appears on sunny days. After receiving an order, they squeeze chilled sugarcane with a special machine, and the resulting slightly bluish juice has a clean, refreshing sweetness.

This stand is run by a farmer in the "farm to cup" style, which is popular in Hawaiian markets. The stand closes as soon as it sells out, so if you come across it, you're lucky. It's a lucky juice stand.

The chef-owner's knife skills shine when cooking seasonal vegetables and island seafood.

PANORAMA

One place we would like to recommend is "PANORAMA," located near the aforementioned Tsubaki Shoten. This restaurant serves international cuisine made with seasonal vegetables collected from the island's direct sales shops and fresh seafood caught on the island. Baby chairs and kids' cutlery are also provided, so even small children are welcome. They stock not only island shochu and craft beer, but also natural wines.

For adults, the "Assorted Sashimi" and "Chawanmushi" dishes show off the skills of the owner chef, who trained at a traditional Japanese restaurant and a sushi restaurant, while for children, the hand-held menu items such as "Just Vegetables" and "Potato French Fries with Skin" are popular. If you see the limited menu item "Mackerel Sushi" that is only available when Yakushima's specialty "Broken Neck Mackerel" is in stock, be sure to order it. The crunchy, meaty mackerel meat is unique to Yakushima. It's guaranteed to be a taste you'll cherish forever.

Take home some aromatic coffee as a souvenir and enjoy the afterglow of your trip

Isminato Coffee Roastery

Isminato Coffee Roastery is scheduled to move from Isminato, a port town in the north of the island, to the second floor of the prefectural ferry waiting room in Miyanoura in July. In fact, I am a writer and also run this coffee shop with my wife. The main business of the shop is selling beans, mainly through wholesale and mail order sales both on and off the island, but you can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee as takeout or in the store.

Our coffee bean packaging and original plastic bottles with seaside scenery are also popular souvenirs. Before you head home, slip some coffee beans into your suitcase and unpack your bags, enjoying the sweet aroma. Enjoy the afterglow of your never-ending journey with a cup the next morning.

As you drive around the edge of the island with its high mountains in the middle, the weather changes constantly, and rainbows appear and disappear repeatedly. If you can turn the changing weather to your advantage and look forward to such special rewards, your trip to Yakushima will be even more enjoyable. New shops are opening one after another on Yakushima. These are just a few of the recommended spots. Even if you don't climb mountains, this is a fun island, and we look forward to your visit.

Go to Yakushima with JAL Package