Exploring the Enchantment of Yakushima with Friends

Serenity Found: A Day of Beach and Waterfall Bliss

Today was all about embracing the quieter side of Yakushima, a welcome change of pace after our adventurous hikes through the ancient forests. I was looking forward to some relaxation and natural beauty, and Yakushima certainly delivered. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of waves and waterfalls, a perfect blend of tranquility and exploration.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Smiley. Liam and I shared a couple of homemade muffins and some coffee while enjoying the sea view. It’s a cozy little cafe, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I even picked up a postcard as a souvenir. It’s the perfect spot to start the day, especially with its easy access to the port.

After breakfast, we headed to Inakahama Beach. The bus ride from Miyanoura was about 40 minutes. The beach is known as a nesting site for sea turtles, and while it's not the season for turtle hatching, the beach itself was stunning. The sand was soft and white, and the water was crystal clear.

Experience the tranquility of Inakahama Beach in Yakushima, where breathtaking sunsets and crystal-clear waters await every traveler.

We spent a few hours just relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle waves. Liam tried his hand at fishing, while I was content with a book and the sound of the ocean. I did notice some plastic waste, which was a bit disheartening, but overall, the beach was clean and serene.

As we strolled along the shore, we spotted tiny hermit crabs scurrying about. The beach is quite expansive, stretching about a kilometer, offering plenty of space to unwind. It’s easy to see why this place is a favorite for those seeking tranquility.

We had planned to spend the entire afternoon at the beach, but the lure of Ryujin Falls was too strong. So, after a light snack, we packed up and headed towards the falls.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet moments, in the gentle embrace of nature's beauty.

The journey to Ryujin Falls involved a bus ride and a short walk. The walk itself was lovely, with lush greenery surrounding the path. As we approached, the sound of the waterfall grew louder, building anticipation for what was to come.

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

Ryujin Falls, nestled in the heart of Yakushima, is a sight to behold. The water cascades down rugged cliffs, surrounded by vibrant forests. The name Ryujin, meaning Dragon God, comes from the waterfall's appearance, resembling a dragon with its mouth open. The falls aren’t as tall as Ohko Waterfall, but Ryujin has a unique charm.

We spent a good hour just admiring the falls, taking photos, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The sound of the water was incredibly soothing, and the surrounding scenery was simply breathtaking. The falls are surrounded by beautiful scenery. I can imagine it is especially mesmerizing during the rainy season.

After our fill of waterfall serenity, we made our way back to town, ready for a hearty dinner. For dinner, we chose Shiosai. This charming Japanese restaurant is known for its tempura. Liam and I shared a tempura set, featuring local seafood and seasonal vegetables. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was warm and welcoming. The staff even recommended some local sake to pair with our meal.

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

Following dinner, we decided to check out Seirios, a local bar. It had a cozy, izakaya-style atmosphere. We enjoyed some local drinks and chatted with some locals. It was a great way to unwind and experience the local culture. I even tried a matcha green tea beer, which was surprisingly good !

Discover the flavors of Japan at Seirios, an izakaya in Yakushima offering fresh, authentic cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures. It was a day of contrasts, from the serene beach to the majestic waterfall, and the delicious food and local drinks. Yakushima continues to surprise and enchant me with its natural beauty and warm hospitality. I was particularly grateful that I remembered to pack sunscreen today, after forgetting insect repellent and a portable charger at the start of the trip. My fair complexion definitely needed it after a day at the beach!

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a unique hot spring that emerges from the sea at low tide, and Sandaisugi Cedar, another giant cedar tree [Ursula's note: I need to remember my hiking boots!] It's hard to believe that our trip is slowly coming to an end; there’s still so much to see and experience here. I am trying to soak in every moment!

Until tomorrow,

Ursula