Shiraito Falls — Itoshima's Hidden Waterfall

**The alternate route:** A longer trail (1.5 hrs each way) climbs from the falls to the Raizan summit shrine. The summit view on clear days extends from Hakata Bay to the Iki Island chain in the Korea Strait. Bring 1.5L water — no sources after the falls. **Somen nagashi:** From July to August, a temporary riverside restaurant at the trailhead serves somen noodles floated down bamboo channels — an old Japanese summer tradition. Open 10:00–15:00, weekends only, no reservations needed. **Photography:** The falls photographs best at overcast lighting (the pool turns deepest turquoise) and in autumn (November) when maple leaves frame the white water. Tripod recommended for long exposure — the sound-deadening pool creates a natural privacy zone. **Wildlife:** The forest above the falls is one of the last habitats in northern Kyushu for the Japanese flying squirrel (momonga). Active at dusk — the area around the upper bridge at 17:00–18:00 in summer gives the best chance of a sighting.