Enchanting Yakushima: A Journey into Japan's Ancient Forests

Nature's Embrace: Waterfalls and Gardens of Yakushima

Today in Yakushima was a symphony of nature's finest creations. From the thundering cascade of a majestic waterfall to the serene beauty of meticulously curated gardens, the island revealed its diverse charm. It was a day where the raw power of nature met the delicate artistry of botanical science, leaving me in awe of Yakushima's multifaceted appeal.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yakushima Furusato Market Island Megumi Kan. David and I shared a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and an assortment of local pickles. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The market buzzed with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the island's fresh produce and culinary delights. I couldn't resist picking up a few tankan oranges for a mid-morning snack. They were so juicy and sweet, a true taste of Yakushima. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home in Stratford; perhaps I could even find some local Ontario ingredients that would offer a similar flavour profile.

Our first major stop was the magnificent Ohko Waterfall. As we approached, the air grew cooler and the sound of rushing water filled our ears. The anticipation was palpable. When we finally caught sight of the falls, I was speechless. The water cascaded down from a height of 88 meters, splitting into two streams before plunging into an emerald-green pool below. It was a truly breathtaking sight, and I understood why it's considered one of Japan's best waterfalls. David, ever the history buff, reminded me that this waterfall was selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls in 1996.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ohko Waterfall in Yakushima, a natural wonder amidst lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
We walked along the rocky path to get closer to the base of the falls, feeling the cool spray on our faces. The power of the water was incredible, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for nature's force. I snapped photos from every angle, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. It was difficult, though; no photograph could truly convey the sheer scale and beauty of the Ohko Waterfall. I made sure to be extra careful, as the rocks near the water's edge were quite slippery. I even saw a few brave souls attempting to meditate near the base of the falls, finding serenity amidst the roaring water.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After spending a good hour at the waterfall, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Subarashi Indian Restaurant, a surprising find on this remote island. The aroma of spices wafted through the air as we entered, and we were greeted by a friendly staff. David and I shared a vegetable curry and some naan bread. It was a welcome change of pace from the traditional Japanese cuisine we had been enjoying, and the flavors were bold and satisfying. I was particularly impressed by the restaurant's commitment to using local ingredients whenever possible. It's always heartening to see businesses embracing sustainability and supporting local farmers.

Next on our itinerary was the Yakushima Botanic Gardens. After the raw power of the waterfall, the gardens offered a tranquil contrast. As we entered, we were greeted by a riot of colors and scents. The gardens are home to nearly 2000 species of tropical plants and fruits, many of which are unique to Yakushima. It felt like stepping into another world, a verdant paradise where every plant had a story to tell. The gardens are part of the Yakushima Comprehensive Nature Park, which is near Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yakushima's Botanic Gardens, a lush sanctuary of biodiversity and tranquility in Japan's natural wonderland.
We strolled along the winding paths, marveling at the diversity of plant life. There were towering trees with intricate root systems, delicate orchids in vibrant hues, and exotic fruits I had never seen before. Informative signs provided insights into the ecological significance of each species, making our visit both educational and enjoyable. David was particularly fascinated by the mosses and ferns, of which Yakushima boasts an astonishing variety. He spent a good amount of time photographing the intricate patterns and textures, while I was drawn to the colorful flowers and sweet-smelling fruits.

I was particularly captivated by the tropical fruit section of the gardens. I had never seen bananas, mangoes, papayas, and guavas growing in their natural habitat before. It was a truly unique experience to witness these fruits in their various stages of development, from tiny buds to ripe, juicy specimens. The sweet scents that hung in the air were intoxicating, and I felt a deep sense of connection to the natural world.

We also visited the gift shop, where we sampled fresh-picked tropical fruits, jams, and juices. The tankan citrus juice was especially delicious, and I purchased a jar of Japanese plum jam as a souvenir. I also learned that the park allows visitors to witness the coffee beans that they use, and that they sell star fruit as a souvenir. As we left the gardens, I felt a sense of peace and rejuvenation. The beauty and tranquility of this botanical paradise had soothed my soul and filled me with a renewed appreciation for the natural world.

As evening approached, we made our way to Wakadaisho for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and we were eager to sample some of Yakushima's local catches. We ordered a selection of sashimi and grilled fish, all of which were incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and learning about their fishing traditions.


Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.
To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Ambar, a local bar known for its laid-back atmosphere and creative cocktails. We sipped on some local craft beers, reminiscing about the day's adventures and planning for tomorrow's exploration of Yakushima National Park and the Kigensugi Cedar. The bar was filled with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the camaraderie and good vibes. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day in Yakushima. I'm especially excited to see the Kigensugi Cedar tomorrow, as it is estimated to be around 3,000 years old.


Experience the lively dart bar culture at Ambar in Yakushima, where fun, friendship, and refreshing drinks await every night.
As I reflect on today's experiences, I am struck by the incredible diversity and beauty of Yakushima. From the thundering waterfalls to the serene gardens, this island has something to offer every nature lover. It's a place where you can connect with the raw power of nature and the delicate artistry of botanical science, all in one day. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I am filled with anticipation for the adventures that tomorrow will bring. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my husband, David. His love for history and his unwavering support make every journey that much more special.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Yakushima's natural wonders with a visit to Yakushima National Park and the ancient Kigensugi Cedar. I've heard tales of its grandeur, and I can't wait to witness it firsthand. Before that, we will have breakfast at Matsutake, lunch at Smiley, and dinner at Hachiman. We will also be stopping by Gallery KIANU to buy some souvenirs.

Goodnight from Yakushima!