Exploring the Ancient Forests of Yakushima: A Solo Adventure

Whispers of Waterfalls and Cedar Dreams

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Yakushima. I set out to explore some of the island's most breathtaking waterfalls and stumbled upon a hidden gem of local artistry. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water and the earthy scent of ancient cedar, a symphony for the senses that only Yakushima can orchestrate.

My day began, as most do, with a hearty breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. It's nothing fancy, but it's conveniently located and provided a quick and easy start to my day. Fuelled up, I set off to chase my first waterfall of the day: Ohko Waterfall.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohko Waterfall in Yakushima, a natural wonder amidst lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

The drive to Ohko Waterfall was an experience in itself. The roads wound through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the coastline. As I got closer, I could hear the distant roar of the falls, a tantalizing invitation to witness its power. Nestled between Kurio and Nagata, on the west coast of the island, Ohko Waterfall is one of Japan's best 100 waterfalls, and I could soon see why.

The 88-meter cascade plunged into an emerald-green pool below, the spray creating a refreshing mist in the air. I took my time to absorb the scene, feeling dwarfed by the scale of nature's artistry. Swimming is prohibited, but I enjoyed the cool spray in the summer heat. The path to the viewing point was easy enough, just a few minutes’ walk from the car park.

Nature's grandeur has a way of putting life into perspective, reminding us of the simple yet profound beauty that surrounds us.

After Ohko, my next destination was Senpiro Falls.


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

Located closer to Onoaida, the drive was equally scenic, with glimpses of the turquoise waters along the way. Senpiro Falls is another of Yakushima's famed waterfalls, and its name is said to come from its massive size, resembling a thousand people holding hands.

While the waterfall itself was stunning, cascading down a 60-meter cliff, the viewing point was a bit further from the base. The sheer granite rock face, carved into a V-shape, was impressive. I took a moment to appreciate the scale of the landscape, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. I imagine it must be especially awe-inspiring after heavy rainfall.

With the waterfalls ticked off my list, I decided to explore some local crafts. I headed to Anbo, drawn by the promise of YAKUSHIMA BLESS.


Explore Yakushima Bless: A vibrant shopping mall showcasing local artistry, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs from the beautiful island of Yakushima.

YAKUSHIMA BLESS turned out to be a delightful surprise. The shop had a minimalist, zen aesthetic, standing out in the Anbo downtown area. Inside, the air was filled with the fragrance of cedar, and the shelves were adorned with beautiful home decor items. I admired the wooden cedar blocks and decorative vases, each piece telling a story of the island's heritage. I ended up buying a woodblock print postcard featuring the Jomon Sugi, feeling like it was a perfect memento of my trip.

For lunch, I ventured to Matsutake, a noodle restaurant in the southwest of Yakushima.


Discover authentic soba noodles at Matsutake in Yakushima – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning natural beauty.

It's a popular spot, and I was eager to try their soba. The restaurant had a traditional Japanese feel, and the noodles were delicious and a welcome treat after my morning of chasing waterfalls. It was a simple, satisfying meal that perfectly captured the essence of Yakushima’s culinary scene.

As evening approached, I made my way to SamPotei for dinner.


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

This riverside restaurant in Anbo had a lovely setting, and I enjoyed the atmosphere. Although it drizzled, I sat indoors and savored the flavors of local Yakushima cuisine, including scallop and bonito sashimi, along with some local Tankan beer. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Yakushima Sea Turtle Hall and the Yakushima Fruit Garden – “Papaya no Sato”. I'm also hoping to check out Fisherman's Bar NINA in the evening.

Reflecting on today, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Yakushima's natural wonders and local culture. This solo journey has been incredibly enriching, allowing me to connect with the island on a deeper level. As I drift off to sleep, I carry with me the soothing sounds of waterfalls and the earthy scent of cedar, a reminder of the simple yet profound beauty that surrounds us.