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Three must-see highlights you shouldn’t miss in Miyazaki.
Handpicked trio that captures Miyazaki at a glance!
・Takachiho Gorge: A mystical ravine rooted in Japan’s creation myths. Row a rental boat right beneath Manai Falls and gaze up at the sheer basalt walls.
・Aoshima Shrine & Devil’s Washboard: Aoshima Island is a spiritual power spot encircled by wave-cut rock terraces. The shrine is famed for matchmaking blessings.
・Sun Messe Nichinan: A hilltop park facing the Pacific with seven permitted Moai statues—Japan’s only officially authorized replicas from Easter Island.
A mythic landscape—an otherworldly ravine carved by ancient lava.
Row a boat to the base of Manai Falls!
Born from lava flows ejected by ancient Mt. Aso and rapidly cooled along the Gokase River, the gorge features 80–100 m cliffs stretching about 7 km (a National Scenic Beauty & Natural Monument).
The celebrated Manai Falls—one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls—creates a solemn, mysterious atmosphere.
◆ Highlights: Rent a boat to approach the falls up close. Looking up from the waterline at the sheer walls is breathtaking.
◆ Tip: During Golden Week, summer holidays, and autumn long weekends, boat waits can be hours—advance reservations via the official site are recommended.
◆ Access: About 90 min by bus from JR Nobeoka Station, then walk via the promenade.
A power spot set on a tiny island wrapped by the “Devil’s Washboard.”
Tropical vibes & blessings for love—pray for good matches!
Aoshima is a small 1.5 km-circumference island enshrining Yamasachihiko and Toyotamahime from the Sea & Mountain deity myths. It’s famed for matchmaking and safe childbirth.
The island is linked to the coast by Yayoi Bridge, and at low tide you can walk the wave-cut rock terraces nicknamed the “Devil’s Washboard.”
◆ Highlights: The grounds are covered with subtropical flora like Livistona chinensis, creating a jungle-like ambience packed with wish-granting spots.
◆ Tip: Hop on a three-wheeled tuk-tuk to glide around the island with ease and soak up the resort mood.
◆ Access: ~10 min walk from JR Aoshima Station.
A spectacular hilltop park with seven Moai statues facing the Pacific.
Blue sea, blue sky, and Moai—quintessential Miyazaki scenery!
The seven Moai were fully restored with permission from Easter Island’s council of elders—Japan’s only authorized replicas, thanks to restoration ties predating UNESCO registration.
The park features a restaurant, viewpoints, and a butterfly geoglyph scattered around the grounds.
◆ Highlights: The 2nd from the right is said to bless love; the 3rd from the left is for good fortune.
◆ Tip: The grounds are vast with slopes—rent the colorful round cars (paid) to move around comfortably.
◆ Access: ~40 min by car from central Miyazaki; a highlight on the Nichinan Coast drive.
A vermilion main hall nestled inside a sea cave on towering cliffs.
Toss a “luck stone” and make your wish!
Facing the Hyuga-nada Sea, Udo’s main hall uniquely sits within a cave. The enshrined deity is Ugayafukiaezu-no-Mikoto, father of Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jimmu.
The shrine is revered for safe childbirth, child-rearing, matchmaking, and bountiful catches.
◆ Highlights: Try the famous rite of throwing unglazed “undama” (luck stones) into the hollow of the turtle-shaped rock by the hall.
◆ Tip: Men toss with the left hand; women with the right—surprisingly tricky!
◆ Access: ~50 min by car from Miyazaki City.
One of Japan’s most powerful spiritual sites tied to the Sun Goddess myth.
Step onto the stage where myriad deities once gathered!
Amanoiwato enshrines the cave where the Sun Goddess Amaterasu is said to have hidden. A riverside path leads to Amanoyasugawara, a vast cave where the gods conferred to lure her out.
The hush and mystery feel like wandering into the realm of myth itself.
◆ Highlights: The countless stacked stones in Amanoyasugawara embody visitors’ prayers—otherworldly and serene.
◆ Tip: The cave of Amanoiwato is viewed only from a rear worship spot behind the West Main Hall, guided by shrine priests.
◆ Access: ~15 min by bus from Takachiho Bus Center.
A lush, venerable shrine dedicated to Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jimmu.
A sacred space wrapped in quiet forest.
Enshrining Emperor Jimmu, the main hall is uniquely built using only local Sano cedar in a pale wood finish despite the city-center location, it exudes solemn calm.
◆ Highlights: Home to Japan’s largest wisteria, the nationally designated natural monument “Ooshira Fuji.”
◆ Tip: The grounds form a forest grown from donated trees from across Japan—perfect for a refreshing stroll.
◆ Access: ~10 min walk from JR Miyazaki-Jingu Station.
A naturally formed cross in the sea—said to grant wishes.
A cross carved by rock and ocean—pure coastal magic.
Columnar rocks cut the sea into a cross. Combined with a neighboring rock, the scene resembles the kanji for “to come true,” making it a famed power spot—popular with couples.
◆ Highlights: Ring the “Bell of Wishes” at the viewpoint and make your wish.
◆ Tip: Try the local “Kurusu Salt Soft-Serve” at the nearby stand.
◆ Access: ~20 min by car from JR Hyuga City Station.
One of Japan’s tallest V-shaped cliffs of columnar joints.
Thrills galore—feel the ocean from the cantilevered deck!
At Hyuga Cape’s tip, the 70 m-deep V-shaped chasm resembles a horse’s back. The wave-sculpted columnar joints are nature’s art at its most dramatic.
◆ Highlights: The viewpoint at the tip offers grand 360° panoramas of the Pacific.
◆ Tip: Part of the deck floor is glass—peer down to the sea below (not for the faint of heart!).
◆ Access: Close to Kurusu no Umi—visit both in one go.
A volcanic highland resort dotted with crater lakes in the Kirishima Range.
Hike among living volcanoes and jewel-toned lakes.
At 1,200 m elevation amid peaks like Karakuni-dake and Koshiki-dake, the highland features crater lakes such as Fudo Pond, Rokkannon Miike, and Byakushi Pond—an ideal trekking base.
Alpine flowers delight across the seasons.
◆ Highlights: Pink Miyama-kirishima in spring; silver pampas grass swaying in autumn.
◆ Tip: The name “Ebino” comes from autumn grasses taking on a shrimp-like (ebi) hue due to volcanic gases.
◆ Access: ~55 min by bus from JR Kobayashi Station.
Miyazaki’s soul food—crispy chicken, sweet vinegar, and creamy tartar.
Trace the roots in Nobeoka for the original taste.
Deep-fried chicken dipped in sweet vinegar then topped with tartar sauce. Said to have started as a staff meal at the former Western-style eatery “London” in Nobeoka.
Now a nationwide favorite, but the local original is on another level.
◆ Highlights: Some shops keep the classic no-tartar style with only the tangy vinegar glaze.
◆ Tip: Many restaurants across Miyazaki serve their own take—tasting the differences is half the fun.
◆ Access: Available across the prefecture; for the origin story, head to Nobeoka.
An exhilarating open-air rail cart crossing a spectacular high bridge.
Feel the wind as you roll along sky-high tracks!
Built on the former Takachiho Railway line closed after a 2005 typhoon, the “Super Cart” (a modified diesel) runs about 5 km round-trip.
The star is the 105 m-high Takachiho Bridge—pausing midspan makes for amazing photos.
◆ Highlights: The driver’s lively, humorous commentary adds to the fun.
◆ Tip: The station building remains in its former glory—nostalgic photo ops abound.
◆ Access: Board at Takachiho Station.
Famed for its sea of clouds overlooking the Takachiho Basin and Aso peaks.
Early birds catch the dreamlike ocean of clouds.
At 513 m elevation, legend says Tateiwatatsu-no-Mikoto, grandson of Emperor Jimmu, surveyed the land here.
On crisp mornings from autumn to early winter, a miraculous cloud sea sometimes blankets the basin.
◆ Highlights: Mountain silhouettes floating in clouds create a living ink painting.
◆ Tip: A statue of Tateiwatatsu-no-Mikoto stands at the viewpoint—strike the same pose for photos!
◆ Access: ~15 min by car from Takachiho Bus Center.
One of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls—40 m wide and 18 m high.
Marvel at one of the world’s largest pothole fields.
The “Great Falls” spans the main flow of the Oyodo River, joined by “Male” and “Female” falls. Upstream lies a rare field of thousands of potholes carved by swirling stones over ages.
A suspension bridge affords a head-on view of the roaring curtain of water.
◆ Highlights: Negative ions from the spray offer a refreshing reset.
◆ Tip: The pothole field is a Natural Monument—nature’s sculpture chiseled over eons.
◆ Access: ~20 min by car from JR Miyakonojo Station.
The cultural hub of Kirishima Shuzo—makers of “Kuro Kirishima” shochu.
A grown-up theme park for shochu lovers.
Beyond touring the production process, enjoy onsite restaurants, a bakery, a shop, and even a ground golf course.
The theater introduces Kirishima’s history and craftsmanship with dynamic visuals.
◆ Highlights: Pair Kirishima beer and shochu with dishes using local ingredients.
◆ Tip: A memorial hall honors founder Enatsu Kissuke’s legacy.
◆ Access: ~10 min by bus from JR Miyakonojo Station.
A green, seaside hilltop zoo with an adjacent amusement area.
Don’t miss the synchronized flamingo show!
Home to about 100 species and 1,200 animals including Asian elephants, giraffes, and zebras; a small amusement park sits next door.
The highlight is the elegant flamingo parade of ~70 birds set to music.
◆ Highlights: In summer, a lazy river pool opens—one of the largest in the prefecture.
◆ Tip: Watch the comical mass crossing by goats on the bridge during the “goat parade.”
◆ Access: ~30 min by bus from Miyazaki Station.
A retro-style amusement park near Aoshima—full of Showa-era charm.
Nostalgic rides and seasonal blooms to soothe the soul.
Opened in 1939, it forgoes extreme thrill rides for gentle classics like merry-go-rounds and kiddie trains—perfect for small children.
Camellia and rose gardens add seasonal color across the grounds.
◆ Highlights: The in-park “SL locomotive” still delights kids today.
◆ Tip: Once a honeymoon hotspot that drew couples from across Japan.
◆ Access: Steps from JR Kodomonokuni Station.
A local fried cake of fish paste and tofu from the Obi domain era.
Lightly sweet and fluffy—Obi’s soul food.
Made by mixing fish paste with tofu, brown sugar, and miso before frying. Similar to satsuma-age, but softer thanks to the tofu.
Mild sweetness makes it perfect as a snack or with drinks.
◆ Highlights: The Obi castle town has specialty shops—sampling freshly fried pieces is bliss.
◆ Tip: Each shop’s recipe varies—try a tasting tour.
◆ Access: Available at shops around Obi Castle Town.
Tropical ambience with rare tropical and subtropical plants.
Sister garden to the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Next to Aoshima Shrine, highlights include the signature bougainvillea in the grand greenhouse and an avenue of royal palms—free admission makes it easy to pop in during Aoshima visits.
◆ Highlights: See mangoes, papayas, and other tropical fruits growing in the greenhouse.
◆ Tip: The café’s mango parfait is popular.
◆ Access: ~10 min walk from JR Aoshima Station.
Legendary departure point of Emperor Jimmu—once a merchant shipping hub.
White walls and lattice windows in a nostalgic port town.
Flourished from the Edo to Meiji eras through trade with Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe; lined with merchant houses and shipping agents, it’s a nationally important preservation district for groups of historic buildings.
Local lore also says Emperor Jimmu set sail eastward from here.
◆ Highlights: Stone-paved streets and white-plastered facades feel like a time slip.
◆ Tip: A stone marker claims “The Birthplace of the Japanese Navy,” tied to the founding legend.
◆ Access: ~20 min walk from JR Mimitsu Station.
Home to one of the world’s largest planetariums—feel the vastness of space.
Nicknamed “Cosmo Land”—blast off on a journey to the stars.
A hands-on science museum crowned by a 27 m-diameter planetarium dome—among the world’s largest.
Programs blend realistic night skies with dynamic CG for mesmerizing shows.
◆ Highlights: A rare exhibit of a real “moon rock” brought back by Apollo 11.
◆ Tip: Outside stands a full-scale H-I rocket model—its size is staggering.
◆ Access: Steps from JR Miyazaki Station.
Residence of the Miyakonojo Shimazu lords—visited by Emperor Meiji.
Samurai dignity meets early-modern elegance.
The registered tangible cultural property dates to 1879 and conveys the lifestyle of the local Shimazu branch.
Don’t miss the “Budo-kan” training hall for kendo and archery, and the “Gobinden” where Emperor Showa stayed.
◆ Highlights: Admire the refined architecture and beautifully kept gardens.
◆ Tip: The onsite Miyakonojo History Museum offers rich context on local culture.
◆ Access: ~15 min walk from JR Nishi-Miyakonojo Station.
Panoramic coastal views and tropical vibes along the Nichinan Coast.
Almost like an overseas resort—mango treats with a view.
Near the heart of Nichinan Kaigan Quasi-National Park, its terrace overlooks palm-lined shores.
The restaurant serves local dishes and decadent desserts with ripe Miyazaki mango.
◆ Highlights: Stroll the tropical garden planted with fruit trees.
◆ Tip: Nearby Sakaematsu Beach is calm—great for families.
◆ Access: ~70 min by car from Miyazaki City.
Beloved castle ruins famed for the “Thousand-Killer” stone wall.
Could one stone really topple the rest?
Though the keep is gone, the 19 m-high stone walls are awe-inspiring.
The infamous “Thousand-Killer” wall was said to collapse if a single key stone was pulled—crushing a thousand foes.
◆ Highlights: The bell at the Ninomaru Plaza still chimes morning and evening for locals.
◆ Tip: To prevent mischief, the wall has been reinforced with concrete today.
◆ Access: ~15 min walk from JR Nobeoka Station.
Final stage of the Satsuma Rebellion—Saigo’s last 32 days.
Stand where a national hero made his last decisions.
Saigo’s headquarters for the last 32 days of the conflict survive as a museum displaying artifacts connected to him and the war’s endgame.
◆ Highlights: This is where Saigo burned his general’s uniform and ordered the dispersal by Beppu Shinsuke.
◆ Tip: The building originally belonged to a local physician.
◆ Access: ~10 min by car from JR Nobeoka Station.
Over 300 ancient burial mounds—resting place of early Hinata rulers.
Ancient romance amid seas of flowers—canola, cherry, cosmos.
One of Japan’s largest kofun concentrations and a Special Historic Site. Various mound types reflect the power of ancient chieftains.
Vast fields burst with seasonal blooms—ideal for picnics and strolls.
◆ Highlights: The Saitobaru Archaeological Museum explains finds and mound structures.
◆ Tip: During spring’s Canola Festival, some 20 million blossoms contrast brilliantly with cherry trees.
◆ Access: ~50 min by car from Miyazaki City.
Mythic dances designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Nightly shows—be drawn into the gods’ narratives.
Based on myths like the Amanoiwato legend, kagura is traditionally offered overnight in autumn to give thanks and pray for next year’s bounty.
Takachiho Shrine presents a one-hour digest of four representative dances every night for visitors.
◆ Highlights: “Totori,” the pulling away of the cave door to bring Amaterasu back, is powerful and thrilling.
◆ Tip: Masks are hand-carved one by one.
◆ Access: Performed nightly from 8 pm at Takachiho Shrine’s kagura hall.
Commanding views of the Nichinan Coast and the Devil’s Washboard.
A classic stop on the Miyazaki coastal drive.
Just south of Horikiri Pass, the terrace overlooks the Pacific and wave-cut rock terraces.
The shop stocks local specialties—ideal for rest stops on the coast road.
◆ Highlights: Savor mango or ashitaba soft-serve with the scenery.
◆ Tip: The “Devil’s Washboard” formed as 7-million-year-old strata rose and were planed by waves.
◆ Access: ~30 min by car from Miyazaki City center.
A city oasis filled with flowers and greenery year-round.
Flower paradise by day, sparkling lights by night.
Meticulous gardens and seasonal displays make for endless strolling.
In winter, the Illumination Flower Garden lights up with about a million bulbs—a beloved local tradition.
◆ Highlights: The lawn plaza is perfect for picnics—family favorite.
◆ Tip: Gardening consultations and workshops are held regularly.
◆ Access: ~25 min by bus from Miyazaki Station.
Endless flower carpets set against the Kirishima Mountains.
Feel like you’re walking on a tapestry of blooms.
At 550 m elevation, vast flower fields unfurl. Canola and poppies paint spring; in autumn over a million cosmos blossom—a photographer’s dream.
◆ Highlights: Staggering night skies—great for stargazing.
◆ Tip: The Cosmos Festival brings lively events in peak season.
◆ Access: ~10 min by car from JR Kobayashi Station.
The city’s summer heats up with a massive dance festival.
“Erekoccha” means “awesome” in local dialect!
Held late July on Miyazaki’s main boulevards, the prefecture’s largest festival showcases dance teams of many genres in energetic performances.
The “All Citizens’ Dance” welcomes anyone to join—participate, don’t just watch!
◆ Highlights: Taiko drums and mikoshi (portable shrines) raise the fever pitch.
◆ Tip: Fireworks crown the finale, dazzling the night sky.
◆ Access: Main venues are Takachiho-dori and Tachibana-dori in front of JR Miyazaki Station.
Home of the wild Misaki horses—vast grasslands meet the blue sea.
Horses, sea, and lighthouse—the perfect picture postcard.
At the prefecture’s southern tip, native Misaki horses roam free all year—designated a Natural Monument.
Observe these precious horses up close against the ocean backdrop.
◆ Highlights: The silhouettes of grazing horses with the sea behind are unforgettable.
◆ Tip: Cape Toi Lighthouse is Kyushu’s only lighthouse open for interior tours.
◆ Access: ~40 min by bus from JR Kushima Station.
One of the world’s largest pedestrian suspension bridges over laurel forest.
Bird’s-eye stroll above a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Spanning 250 m at 142 m high over Aya’s laurel forest (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), the bridge offers sweeping views and access to a ~2 km nature trail beyond.
◆ Highlights: Mesh flooring at midspan gives a thrilling peek straight down.
◆ Tip: Built to enable canopy-level ecosystem observation.
◆ Access: ~60 min by car from Miyazaki City.