Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Nature's Masterpieces: Senpiro Falls and Yokogawa Valley

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Yakushima. After the adventures of the past few days, I was eager to see more of what this island had to offer beyond its ancient forests. I was ready to discover the island's hidden gems and feel the rejuvenating power of nature.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Smiley, a charming café near Anbo harbor. Liam had discovered it yesterday, and insisted we all try it. The coffee was strong and the homemade muffins were the perfect start to a day of exploring. I opted for a vegetarian muffin sandwich, which was delicious. The cafe had such a cozy atmosphere, with a lovely view of the harbor. It's the perfect place to relax and plan the day ahead. I made a mental note to try and recreate the muffins when I got back to Dublin.

Fueled up and ready, we set off to our first destination: Senpiro Falls. The drive itself was stunning, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the coastline. As we approached the falls, the sound of cascading water grew louder, building anticipation. The parking was easy to find, with just a short walk to the viewing area.

And then, there it was. Senpiro Falls is a breathtaking sight. The water plummets down a 60-meter drop over a massive granite rock. The scale of it is just incredible. The granite rock is said to be the size of a thousand rice fields, hence the name 'Senpiro'. The lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to the sense of natural wonder. I can see why it's such a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.


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

We spent a good hour just taking in the view, snapping photos, and feeling the mist on our faces. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the power and beauty of nature. It’s humbling to be in the presence of something so ancient and enduring.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Next on our itinerary was Yokogawa Valley. After grabbing a quick bite at Matsutake, a popular noodle restaurant known for its soba and udon, we drove towards the valley. Matsutake is family-run and has a traditional Japanese feel, which I really appreciated. I had the cold soba noodles with tempura, which were delicious.


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

The Yokogawa Valley is a completely different experience from the falls. It’s a serene and tranquil place, with lush forests, moss-covered granite boulders, and a clear stream running through it. The valley is known for its ancient cedar trees and diverse plant life.


Explore the serene beauty of Yokogawa Valley in Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by lush forests and unique wildlife.

We hiked along one of the well-marked trails, taking our time to soak in the atmosphere. The air was fresh and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle murmur of the stream and the rustling of leaves. It felt like stepping into another world.

I was particularly fascinated by the moss-covered rocks. The vibrant green moss creates a magical, almost ethereal landscape. It’s easy to see why this place is so beloved by locals and visitors alike. The valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds, though we didn't spot any this time.

As we walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving these natural spaces. Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s crucial that we protect its unique ecosystem for future generations. It's places like this that remind me why I'm so passionate about sustainable living and ethical travel.

After a day of hiking and exploring, we were all ready for a good meal. For dinner, we decided to try Wakadaisho, a sushi restaurant in Miyanoura. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Japanese ambiance.


Experience authentic sushi crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Yakushima's natural beauty.

Wakadaisho was a fantastic choice. The sushi was incredibly fresh, and the chefs clearly take pride in their craft. Liam, who is a big sushi fan, declared it the best he’s ever had. I tried the local specialty, flying fish sashimi, which was surprisingly delicious. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Yakushima's natural wonders.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Ambar, a local dart bar. It was a fun and lively spot, filled with locals enjoying a night out. I'm not much of a dart player, but I enjoyed watching the others and soaking in the atmosphere. It was a great way to experience a different side of Yakushima and connect with the local community.


Experience the lively dart bar culture at Ambar in Yakushima, where fun, friendship, and refreshing drinks await every night.

As I sit here writing this, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Yakushima has a way of captivating you with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the stresses of modern life and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Yakusugi Land [If attraction exists, use AttractionID, else remove] and see the Daio Sugi [If attraction exists, use AttractionID, else remove], another ancient cedar tree. I’m also hoping to spend some time exploring the coastal areas and maybe even take a dip in the ocean. I'm also excited to try a new breakfast place called Michikusa [If restaurant exists, use RestaurantID, else remove].

Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to apply some extra sunscreen [Persona.TripDetails.TripEssentials]. Even though it wasn't super sunny, my fair skin [Persona.VisualAppearance] is prone to sunburn, and I don't want to ruin the rest of the trip. I also made a mental note to buy some insect repellent [Persona.TripDetails.TripEssentialsForgotten] tomorrow. The bugs weren't too bad today, but I'd rather be prepared.

Yakushima continues to surprise and delight me. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.