Exploring the Enchanting Forests of Yakushima

Island Echoes: Waterfalls and Horizons

Today was a symphony of natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls to panoramic ocean views. It's days like these that remind me why I crave solo travel – the freedom to follow my whims, to linger where my heart desires, and to fully immerse myself in the present moment. Yakushima continues to unveil its charm, and I'm eager to share the highlights of my day.

My day began with a convenient and quick breakfast at the Yakushima Airport Restaurant. Though I was eager to start my adventures, a little fuel was definitely needed. It was a simple meal, but it did the trick, and soon I was on my way to Ryujin Falls. The drive was scenic, and I found myself pulling over a couple of times just to soak in the views. Ryujin Falls is nestled away, and is a bit of a walk from the bus stop, but I wanted to take public transport to limit my footprint on this beautiful island. The walk itself was lovely, through lush greenery and the sounds of nature all around. As I approached Ryujin Falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the sight that awaited. The falls cascade down, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty. The surrounding forest added to the enchanting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat. I spent some time there, simply absorbing the serenity of the place, feeling the cool mist on my skin, and listening to the soothing sounds of the water.


Explore the breathtaking Ryujin Falls in Yakushima, a natural wonder surrounded by lush forests and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.

The world is full of magic, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.

After Ryujin Falls, I made my way to the East China Sea Observatory. The drive was just as breathtaking as this morning, with winding roads offering glimpses of the coastline and lush greenery. As I ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying with it the scent of pine and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore. The observatory stood proudly atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the East China Sea. The vast expanse of blue stretched out before me, meeting the horizon in a seamless blend of sky and water. The rugged coastline, dotted with rocky outcrops and sandy beaches, added to the dramatic beauty of the scene. I spent a considerable amount of time simply gazing out at the sea, lost in contemplation and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural splendor. I could easily see why this spot is so popular among locals and tourists alike.


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

For lunch, I ventured to Iso no Kaori, a highly recommended seafood restaurant in Anbo Harbor. I had heard rave reviews about their fresh sushi and sashimi, and I was eager to try it for myself. The restaurant had a cozy and authentic atmosphere, with tatami mats for seating. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and they even had English menus available. I ordered the sashimi set, and it was indeed a culinary delight. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were simply divine. I also tried the deep-fried flying fish, a local specialty, and it was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.


Experience authentic Japanese sushi at Iso no Kaori in Yakushima - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.

As the day wound down, I found myself at Gaspoint, a local bar. It was a cozy spot, and I was ready for a beverage after a day of exploring. As I sat there, sipping on my drink, I struck up a conversation with a local. He shared stories about the island, its history, and its people. It was fascinating to hear his perspective, and it added a deeper layer to my understanding of Yakushima. These are the moments I cherish most when traveling – the unexpected connections, the shared stories, and the glimpse into another way of life. We talked about the unique ecosystem of Yakushima, its ancient cedar trees, and the efforts being made to preserve its natural beauty. He also mentioned the Yokogawa Valley and Jōmon Sugi, which I plan to visit tomorrow, and gave me some tips on the best trails to take.


Experience the cozy charm of Gaspoint, Yakushima's beloved café and bar, offering homemade curry and an extensive beverage selection.

Dinner was at Shiosai, another local restaurant known for its seafood. I decided to try the fried flying fish, which was served with spicy oroshi (grated radish) and ponzu (citrus soya sauce). The whole fish was edible, from head to tail, and it was a truly unique culinary experience. The restaurant was bustling with locals and a few tourists, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion.


Experience authentic Japanese tempura at Shiosai in Yakushima—where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this enchanting island. Yakushima has a way of captivating the senses and nourishing the soul. Tomorrow, I plan to explore Yokogawa Valley and finally see Jōmon Sugi. I have heard so much about the ancient cedar tree and I am excited to see it myself. I'll be sure to stop by Smiley for breakfast before heading out, and I'm already looking forward to trying some local specialties at Matsutake for lunch and Yakushima Gallery Restaurant for dinner. And if I have time, I might even treat myself to some gelato at Yakushima Gelato Sora-Umi.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a moment to gaze at the stars. The night sky in Yakushima is a sight to behold, with countless stars twinkling like diamonds against a velvet canvas. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe. I am so grateful for this trip and for the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Yakushima. Goodnight from Yakushima!

I am reminded of a quote by John Muir, which perfectly encapsulates my experience today:

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Yakushima. Until tomorrow!

P.S. I really must remember to buy a Japanese phrasebook. It would make my interactions with the locals so much easier! I also wish I had brought more sunscreen; the sun here is stronger than I anticipated.