Exploring the Enchanted Forests of Yakushima with Friends

Nature's Majesty and Coastal Vistas

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty of Yakushima, a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water and the expansive views of the East China Sea Observatory. It's incredible how much this island offers in terms of natural wonders, and I'm so grateful to be experiencing it all with friends.



Our day began with a quick and convenient breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It wasn't anything fancy, but it provided the necessary fuel for the day's adventures. I grabbed a simple set meal of grilled fish, rice, and miso soup – a classic Japanese breakfast that always hits the spot. I must admit, the convenience was a major plus, allowing us to maximize our time exploring the island. We discussed our plan for the day, excitement bubbling in the air as we anticipated the natural beauty that awaited us.



With our bellies full, we set off to our first destination: Senpiro Falls. As we approached, the anticipation grew. The falls are easily accessible from the main road, and a short walk from the car park led us to a breathtaking view. The water cascaded down a 60-meter drop over a massive granite rock, a sight that truly commands respect. The sheer scale of the falls is humbling, and the surrounding lush greenery only adds to the spectacle. I took several photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scene, but, as always, the photos just couldn't do it justice. It’s one of those places you have to experience firsthand to truly appreciate its beauty. Apparently, the rock face is so large it's said to be the size of a thousand rice fields! Hence the name “Senpiro”, meaning “one thousand fields”.


Explore the enchanting beauty of Senpiro Falls in Yakushima, where nature's splendor meets serene tranquility amidst lush greenery.

    

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After spending a good amount of time at Senpiro Falls, soaking in the majestic views and the invigorating spray, we were ready for our next adventure: the East China Sea Observatory. The drive there was scenic in itself, winding through Yakushima's diverse landscapes. As we climbed higher, the views became more and more impressive. The observatory offered a panoramic vista of the East China Sea, stretching out as far as the eye could see. The vastness of the ocean was mesmerizing, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me as I gazed at the horizon. Emily would have loved this view; she always appreciates a good ocean vista.


Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the East China Sea Observatory in Yakushima, a must-visit gem for nature lovers.

I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape is from the coastal ecosystems I study back in Halifax. While the marine life might share some similarities, the overall environment here in Yakushima is so unique, shaped by the island's volcanic origins and heavy rainfall. It's a reminder of the incredible diversity of our planet and the importance of preserving these special places.



Before heading to lunch, we made a quick stop at The North Face store. I needed to replace a small carabiner that had broken on my backpack. It was a convenient stop, and I appreciated the chance to browse their selection of outdoor gear. I even picked up a small, waterproof bag, thinking it might come in handy for tomorrow's hike to Ohko Waterfall and Ryujin Falls. The store had a surprising connection to the island, being a limited-time store curated around the charms of Yakushima.


Explore the great outdoors with premium sportswear from The North Face, your premier gear destination in Yakushima's stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we decided to try SamPotei, a restaurant recommended by several locals. It was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I opted for the flying fish pizza, a local specialty, and it was surprisingly delicious. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the crust was perfectly crispy. My friends tried other local dishes, including the venison steak, and everyone was pleased with their meals. It's always a good sign when a restaurant is popular with the locals, and SamPotei certainly lived up to its reputation. I made a mental note to recommend this place to other travelers.


Experience the flavors of Japan at SamPotei, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Yakushima.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the Yakushima Gallery Restaurant for dinner. This place was a real treat! The restaurant is known for its creative dishes featuring local ingredients, and the ambiance was charming and artistic. I decided to try the deer tataki, a dish I had never had before, and it was absolutely divine. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the accompanying sauces complemented it perfectly. The restaurant also had a gallery showcasing local art, which added to the overall experience. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, and they made us feel welcome and comfortable.


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

I am so glad we chose this restaurant. It had a gift shop downstairs, and I was able to get a gas stove and SD card for our camping trip. The flying fish ramen was excellent and is highly recommended!



Tomorrow, we plan to visit Ohko Waterfall and Ryujin Falls, and perhaps enjoy a drink at Fisherman's Bar NINA in the evening. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this enchanting island. I'm also making a note to grab breakfast at Michikusa tomorrow, and lunch at Subarashi Indian Restaurant. I've heard great things about both places.



As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Yakushima has exceeded all my expectations, and I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings. I think I will need to buy a travel guide so that I can learn more about the local flora and fauna. I will also need to get a portable phone charger so I can take more pictures!



The journey, not the arrival, matters; and today's journey through Yakushima's waterfalls and coastal vistas was truly unforgettable.