🌞 A Day in Nagata: SUP, Tofu, and a Swim in the Valley ⬜🌿

Looking for a calm, off-the-beaten-path adventure on Yakushima? Let me take you through a perfect day in Nagata — a quiet coastal village tucked away on the island’s northwest tip. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, wildlife roams freely, and nature is always just a step away.

🚣‍♀️Morning: SUP Cruising on Nagata River

We started the day with a relaxing stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) session on the Nagata River. Compared to some of Yakushima’s more fast-paced adventure spots, this quiet river offers a tranquil experience surrounded by mountain views and birdsong.

The water was calm and perfect for beginners, and the morning light sparkling on the surface made it feel like we were paddling through a dream. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a deer drinking from the shore or a heron gliding overhead. No rush, no crowds — just you and the rhythm of the water.

🥢Lunch: Handmade Tofu at Shiiba Tofu Shop

After drying off and working up an appetite, we walked over to Shiiba Tofu Shop, a beloved local favorite just a few minutes from the river.

This cozy, family-run shop makes fresh tofu by hand every morning and afternoon. We ordered the tofu set lunch, which came with warm, silky tofu, crispy fried tofu chips, and fresh soy milk. There menu is almost completely vegan, with the exception of their Tofu Patties — which, I have to admit, I’ve become totally addicted to. Everything was light, nourishing, and full of that simple, homemade flavor you only find in small villages like this.

They even gave us some freshly picked plums which we brought to our next location...

🏞️Afternoon Cool Down at Yokko Valley

As the sun got warmer, we drove a short 10 minutes inland to Yokko Valley (Yokko Keikoku) for a refreshing swim.

This hidden gem is surrounded by forest, with huge granite boulders and clear mountain water running through a peaceful gorge. It’s the kind of place that feels untouched, like a secret the island only shares with a few. We dipped our feet in first, then gave in to the urge to jump into one of the natural pools — cold, crisp, and exactly what we needed to recharge.

The only sounds? Birds, a trickling stream, and our laughter echoing off the rocks.

🐢Sunset @ Inakahama Beach

If you're still around by sunset, head down to Inakahama Beach, especially during turtle season (May–August). It's one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead and green sea turtles in Japan. Nesting season is wrapping up, but the real magic is just beginning — hatching season kicks off from early July to late September! 🐢

Just be sure to follow the guidelines — you can check out the official info here!

🌿Final Thoughts

A day in Nagata is simple, grounding, and full of quiet moments that stay with you long after you leave. Whether you're gliding across water, sharing tofu with locals, or swimming in a granite valley, it’s the perfect reminder that some of the best adventures come without an itinerary.

👉 Want to experience it yourself?

Check out our SUP and other gear rentals, and accommodations in Nagata to help you make the most of your Nagata adventure.

Let nature set the pace — you won’t regret it.