Solo Expedition to Yakushima: Embracing Nature's Serenity

Whispers of the Ancients

Today was a day of profound connection with Yakushima's soul. From the thundering cascade of Senpiro Falls to the silent stories held within Wilson's Stump, I felt the island's ancient spirit embrace me. It was a journey not just through physical landscapes, but through time itself, leaving me humbled and in awe.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Senpiro Falls, a stunning waterfall in Yakushima surrounded by lush nature and serene landscapes.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Panorama. The fusion cuisine was a delightful start, blending local ingredients with innovative culinary techniques. Fuelled up, I set off to explore the island's natural wonders. I chose Panorama for breakfast for a good reason, since I knew I needed a good meal before starting my day. Isabella always makes sure I eat well, she would have been proud.

My first destination was Senpiro Falls. As I approached, the roar of the water grew louder, building anticipation. Emerging from the dense foliage, I was greeted by a breathtaking sight. The falls cascaded down a massive granite rock face, plunging sixty meters into the valley below. The sheer scale of the falls was awe-inspiring, and the mist rising from the base created a mystical atmosphere. The name 'Senpiro,' meaning 'one thousand fields,' speaks to the immense size of the rock face, as wide as one thousand people holding hands. I spent a good while just taking it all in. The power of nature is so evident here, it makes you feel small but also connected.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet whispers of nature, urging us to reflect and connect with something greater than ourselves.

Next on the itinerary was Wilson's Stump. The drive there was beautiful, winding through lush forests. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth. I parked and began the short hike to the stump, my anticipation growing with each step.
Discover the ancient heart of Yakushima at Wilson's Stump, a majestic cedar remnant offering a unique glimpse into the island's natural history.

Wilson's Stump is the remains of an ancient Yakusugi cedar, believed to be over 3,000 years old before it was cut down centuries ago. It's named after Ernest Henry Wilson, a British botanist who brought attention to Yakushima's unique flora. Stepping inside the hollow stump was like entering another world. The space within is surprisingly large, with a circumference of about 13 meters. A small shrine sits inside, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Looking up, I saw the famous heart-shaped opening in the stump, framing the sky above. It was a truly magical moment, a connection to the past and the enduring power of nature.

The history of Wilson's Stump is fascinating. It's believed that the tree was cut down around 400 years ago, possibly under the orders of the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The wood was intended for building a temple in Kyoto. Standing there, inside this ancient stump, I couldn't help but reflect on the passage of time and the impact of human actions on the environment. It was a sobering reminder of the importance of conservation and respect for nature. It is amazing to think that this tree was here thousands of years before me.

After immersing myself in the history and majesty of Wilson's Stump, my stomach reminded me it was lunchtime. I headed to Matsutake, a popular noodle restaurant. This family-run establishment is known for its soba and udon noodles, served in a traditional Japanese setting. I opted for the cold soba with tempura, a local favorite. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the tempura was light and crispy. It was a satisfying and authentic meal, a true taste of Yakushima. The owner was incredibly kind, making the experience even more enjoyable. I thought about Sofia, she would have loved the noodles.

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip lower, I decided to indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping. I made my way to Pukaridō, a gift shop near the airport.
Explore Pukaridō in Yakushima for unique souvenirs and local liquors, capturing the essence of this beautiful island.

This charming store offers a variety of local products, from foods and sweets to Yakusugi handicrafts. I picked up a few small gifts for Isabella and Sofia, wanting to bring a piece of Yakushima back to them. I found a beautiful bracelet made of Yakusugi wood and power stones, perfect for Isabella. And for Sofia, a set of cute animal-shaped erasers. I also grabbed some island-flavored pasta sauce, a recommendation I'd seen online. Pukarido is conveniently located near the airport, approximately 5 minutes by foot.

As evening approached, I made my way to Kamogawa Restaurant for dinner.
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Kamogawa Restaurant in picturesque Yakushima - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

This restaurant is known for its local dishes, including flying fish, a Yakushima specialty. The atmosphere was casual and friendly, and I enjoyed dining alongside locals. I ordered the flying fish set meal, opting for the deep-fried version. It was a unique and delicious experience, the fish crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I also tried Kamenote, a type of shellfish that resembles a turtle's hand. It was surprisingly good, with a slightly shrimp-like taste. I am always looking for new culinary experiences and this was a great one!

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Meoto Sugi, the 'married couple' cedars, and the Yakushima Fruit Garden. I am also planning on visiting Ambar. I am excited to see what other wonders this island holds.

Today was a day of deep connection with Yakushima's natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the majestic Senpiro Falls to the ancient Wilson's Stump, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. It's experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to connect with the world around me. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Yakushima, and I look forward to more adventures in the days to come. I know Isabella would have loved to be here with me, but I will bring back stories for her and Sofia. I am sure they will be excited to hear them all. Now, time for a good night's rest. Tomorrow brings new adventures!

It's funny how sometimes the things you forget turn out to be the things you miss the most. I wish I had packed the insect repellent and sunscreen, they would have been useful.

I am glad I brought my travel journal though, I will be able to look back on this day and remember all the details.