2R Yakushima

The private onsen is well worth trying. We slept really well throughout our stay in this peaceful place, and the hosts were warm and welcoming. It’s in a calm part of the island, and they helped us make a good plan for each day. Breakfast was tasty, with homemade baked goods and local ingredients.

The breakfasts are hard to forget. Tano’s well-seasoned citrus chicken with rice noodles and broth, plus the scrambled eggs, were favorites, and Gigi’s homemade banana bread was among the best we’ve had. We spent five nights here and wished we’d booked more. The location is tucked away in the south, though a rental car makes it easy to reach hiking trails, east coast restaurants, and the scenic jungle road on the west. There are lovely sunset spots nearby. On foot, we found Nishibashi, a local meat yakiniku place, a cozy Indonesian restaurant across the road, and Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen (Underwater Hot Spring), a mixed-gender public bath. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the onsen, so you can go back when the tide is low. There’s also a private indoor onsen to rent at 2R Yakushima. Our room was roomy and attractive, with a warm, welcoming feel alongside the minimalist design. The guesthouse has three rooms, and you can rent a washer and dryer, handy after a hike like Jomon-sugi. The place is newly opened but looked just like the pictures. Tano and Gigi were attentive and friendly, and helped us plan activities and make restaurant reservations. We were glad to be among the first guests at this lovely place.

We were lucky to stay at 2R Guesthouse among its first visitors. The new rooms have modern facilities, with thoughtful touches like adjustable indirect lighting, tatami floors, and an on-demand onsen. The hosts were attentive and the property was wonderful. We’d love to come back to the island and stay here again.

Make time to notice the wood’s scent if you book the private bath, like we did. Tano and Gigi made the stay feel homey, with local tips, great breakfasts, and lovely chats. The rooms were spacious and immaculate, set in a beautiful spot, with thoughtful design and excellent facilities.