The Miyazaki City, Miyakonojo, and Nichinan areas offer tourist attractions such as Phoenix, Oshima, and Atago Shrine; sightseeing events such as the Aoshima Pacific Marathon, Dunlop Phoenix Tournament, and LPGA Tour Championship Ricoh Cup; and local delicacies such as chicken nanban, meat rolled rice balls, and kamaage udon noodles. The city also offers local delicacies such as chicken nanban, rolled meat balls and kamaage udon noodles.
Miyazaki has a beautiful straight coastline facing the Sea of Hyuga, which can be seen from airplanes. The streets are planted with phoenixes and palms, creating a tropical mood. The Miyazaki Prefectural Museum provides easy-to-understand explanations of nature, history, and culture using dioramas and other exhibits. Behind the museum is the Minka-en (private house garden), where old private houses have been relocated to give visitors a sense of going back in time.
There is a legend that the former capital of the Yamato Imperial Court was located in this area, and the Miyazaki Shrine, which was built when Emperor Jinmu died, is also located in the area.
After your stroll, enjoy dishes richly prepared with lobsters and other seafood from the Sea of Hyuga, Miyazaki beef, and local chicken. For dessert, try "Nanjakora Daifuku," a famous local confectionary with strawberries, sweet chestnuts, and cream cheese inside a Daifuku (bean-stuffed rice cake).
National Routes 220 and 448, which run from the city center along the Nichinan coast, are famous driving spots and have been selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan. There are many sightseeing spots along the route, including Aoshima Island, famous for its 30 varieties of subtropical plants and the oddly shaped rock called "Oni-no-Washboard," and Udo Shrine, with its vermilion-lacquered main shrine built in a cave facing the sea.
At "Sun Messe Nichinan," where the official moai statues of Easter Island, which are unique in the world, stand side by side, visitors can interact with animals and enjoy a meal at a restaurant. Visitors can also interact with animals and have a meal at a restaurant.
The drive ends at Miyazaki's southernmost point, Cape Toimisaki. More than 100 wild horses, called "Misaki-uma," which are a protected species, live here, and you can observe their lives on a monitor at the Cape Tsuimisaki Visitor Center's Umanokan. You can watch them grazing leisurely on the spacious grasslands of the cape, which is a soothing sight.
The Cape Toimisaki Lighthouse at the tip of the cape is open for tours, and the view from the top is sure to relieve the stress of daily life. In addition to freshly caught seafood from the Hyuga Sea, you can also enjoy ayu (sweetfish) cuisine around Golden Week. Local delicacies such as meat-rolled rice balls and "obiten," deep-fried fish cakes, are also recommended.
As for Miyakonojo, one of the most famous scenic spots in Miyakonojo is Sekinoo Falls, which has been selected as one of the "100 Best Waterfalls in Japan. It is a famous waterfall consisting of Otaki Falls, Otoko Falls, and Onna Falls. In addition, there are many other popular tourist spots for families, such as Hayamizu Park, which has a pond filled with spring water said to have been used by Emperor Nintoku's wife, Mochioka Park, which is also famous for its cherry blossoms, and Takachiho Farm, where visitors can interact with small animals.
At Manyo Botanical Garden, visitors can see more than 165 kinds of plants, flowers, and trees, each of which is accompanied by a sign that tells what kind of waka poem it is composed of. The summit of Mt. Kaneomidake, from which the Kirishima mountain range and the Kirishima Basin can be seen in the early morning, is also a great place for bird watching, as the migratory flight of the crested serpent eagle can be observed in late October.
Aoshima is a small, picturesque island off the southeastern coast of Miyazaki City, facing the Hyuga-nada Sea. Connected to the mainland by the Yayoi Bridge, this distinctive island is known for its subtropical vegetation, unusual coastal rock formations, and the sacred Aoshima Shrine at its center. One of the island's most remarkable features is a geological formation known as the Devil's Washbo...»
Miyazaki Jingu Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Jingu, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Dedicated primarily to Emperor Jimmu, traditionally regarded as Japan's first emperor, the shrine is one of the region's most important centers of religious devotion and historical heritage. Locally, it is affectionately known as "Jinmu-sama." Surrounded by a tranquil woodland, Miyazaki Jingu o...»
Oni no Sentakuita, commonly known as the Devil's Washboard, is an extraordinary coastal geological formation extending from the area around Aoshima in Miyazaki Prefecture toward the Nichinan Coast. Created by the forces of nature over millions of years, this unusual landscape features regularly arranged, wave-shaped rock formations that resemble an enormous washboard. The distinctive name comes f...»
New Summer Orange, known in Miyazaki as Hyuganatsu, is one of the prefecture's signature citrus fruits. It is also called Konatsu in some regions of Japan. Recognized by its bright yellow skin, fluffy white pith, and pleasantly refreshing acidity, this distinctive citrus fruit offers a flavor and eating experience quite different from those of ordinary oranges and mandarins. Hyuganatsu has long b...»
Miyazaki Ramen has earned fans throughout Japan and is one of the prefecture’s popular local noodle dishes. Its basic style combines thick, relatively soft noodles with a pork-bone-based broth. Typical toppings include bean sprouts and menma (seasoned bamboo shoots), often prepared with a particularly rich seasoning....»
Mukade-nori is a rare local delicacy made from a seaweed harvested along the Nichinan Coast in southern Miyazaki Prefecture. Its name means “centipede seaweed,” referring to the distinctive appearance of the seaweed, whose shape and color are reminiscent of a centipede. The ingredient is a type of red seaweed known as Togekirinsai, which is related to the seaweed used to make agar. It is a partic...»
Kani Maki-jiru is a traditional local soup from Kitago Town in Miyazaki Prefecture. It is made with Yamataro crabs, also known as Japanese mitten crabs or Mokuzugani, which live in rivers. In this region, these river crabs have traditionally been valued as an important source of protein. The soup is known for its rich crab flavor and its unusual, soft texture. During preparation, the crab meat an...»
Maguro Gonguri-ni is a traditional local dish from the Minami-Naka region of southern Miyazaki Prefecture, an area with a long history of fishing, particularly for tuna and bonito. In this region, the stomach of a tuna is known as “gonguri,” and the dish takes its name from this locally used term. Fresh tuna stomach is simmered in a sweet-and-savory mixture of sugar, soy sauce, and mirin, a Japan...»
One of the characteristic sights of autumn in Nobeoka City, Miyazaki Prefecture, is the ayu fish weir, known as an “ayu-yana,” stretching across the width of the Gokase River. These traditional fishing structures are built using logs and stones and are designed to catch sweetfish as they travel downstream. In spring, young ayu swim upstream into the upper reaches of the Gokase River. During summe...»
Gyo Udon, commonly known as Fish Udon, is a local specialty of Miyazaki Prefecture. Unlike ordinary udon, which is made from wheat flour, its noodles are made from finely ground fish paste. This gives the dish a distinctive flavor in which the natural umami of the fish can be enjoyed directly....»
Miyazaki Bonito Umikko-bushi is a carefully crafted bonito product made using traditional methods passed down through generations. Only bonito landed in Miyazaki Prefecture or caught by pole-and-line fishing in the prefecture is used as the raw ingredient. The product was developed by a group of women who took inspiration from a traditional home-cooked dish called “katsuo shoyu-bushi.” In the pas...»
Nichinan's Atsuyaki Tamago is a traditional thick-baked egg dish associated with Obi, in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is also known as “Obi no Atsuyaki” and is said to have been presented to the feudal lord in the past. This specialty remains an essential part of local celebrations and special occasions. It is prized for its soft texture and refined, gentle flavor. When eaten, it has an...»
Katsuo Aburi-jū is a local specialty that originated in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, an area renowned for its landings of pole-and-line-caught bonito. This generous rice dish features fresh bonito that has been marinated in two different sauces, grilled over a charcoal brazier, and served on top of rice. The bonito is grilled at the table over a small charcoal brazier called a shichirin. C...»
Obi Tenpura, often simply called Obi-ten, is a traditional local dish from the Nichinan area of Miyazaki Prefecture. It has been passed down since the Edo period (1603–1868) and is closely associated with the historic castle town of Obi. Despite the word “tempura” in its name, Obi Tenpura looks more like satsuma-age, a Japanese fried fish cake, than the familiar battered and deep-fried tempura se...»
Ochichi Ame is a traditional candy and a well-known specialty of Udo Shrine in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The shrine is revered for blessings related to matchmaking, marital harmony, and safe childbirth. This candy is associated with the legend of Princess Toyotama, a central figure in the Japanese myth of the Sea God and the Mountain God. According to local tradition, Ochichi Ame is bel...»
Kinako Pork is a distinctive brand of pork raised at Hazama Farm in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, an area well known for its livestock industry. The pigs are carefully raised in Miyazaki's natural environment, surrounded by clean air and clear streams. The name “Kinako Pork” comes from kinako, roasted soybean flour, which is included in the animals' feed. Kinako is rich in nutrients and p...»
Miyakonojo Wagyu is a premium Japanese beef brand raised in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The cattle are Japanese Black (Kuroge Washu), a breed descended from the Tajima lineage, which is renowned for producing exceptionally high-quality beef. Surrounded by the magnificent natural environment of the Kirishima mountain range, the cattle are carefully raised in comfortable barns and provide...»
M Country Black Pork is a premium black pork brand raised in the Miyakonojo Basin of Miyazaki Prefecture. The area offers a favorable natural environment, with clean air and abundant groundwater flowing from the Kirishima mountain range. The pigs are raised in these surroundings with careful attention to both their bloodlines and livestock management....»
Ise shrimp caught along the Nichinan Coast of Miyazaki Prefecture are blessed by the warm Kuroshio Current, which flows along the Pacific coast of southern Japan. These wild shrimp are known for their large size, firm flesh, and wonderfully springy texture. Their naturally rich flavor and freshness make them one of the most prized seafood delicacies of the region. The firm, succulent meat offers ...»
Aburatsu: A Port Town That Recalls the Glory Days of the Tuna Boom Aburatsu, in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, flourished during an unprecedented tuna boom in the early Showa period (1926–1989). From spring to early summer, tuna riding the Kuroshio Current arrived in the waters off the coast, and annual landings reportedly reached between 4,000 and 8,000 tons. At the height of the boom, as ...»
The Sekinoo district of Miyakonojo City is home to one of Miyazaki Prefecture's best-known scenic attractions, Sekinoo Falls. Visitors come to admire the spectacular sight of white spray rising from the falls and to hear the powerful roar of the flowing water. The area is also renowned for its carp cuisine, made with fish raised in the clear water that springs from the Miyakonojo Basin....»
Flying fish are a seasonal feature of Miyazaki's coastal waters, heralding the arrival of summer. They belong to the family Exocoetidae in the order Beloniformes and inhabit subtropical and temperate seas. They migrate north from warmer southern waters, riding the Kuroshio Current as they approach the coast to spawn. In Miyazaki, flying fish begin to appear in coastal waters around June. The main...»
Dolphinfish, known in Japanese as shiira, is a strikingly large fish that can grow to around two meters in length. It has a distinctive appearance, with an angular head and a long, slender body. Despite its imposing size and unusual looks, its flesh has a surprisingly gentle flavor and a soft, fluffy texture....»
Hyuganatsu is a citrus fruit that was discovered growing naturally by chance in 1820 in the garden of Yasutaro Magata in Miyazaki City. It is believed to have originated as a natural mutation of the yuzu citrus. The fruit ripens around April and is slightly larger than a typical Satsuma mandarin. Its smooth, thick peel turns a bright yellow when ripe. The flesh has a refreshing acidity and a rela...»
The Kibana district in the southern part of Miyazaki City is known for its strawberry production. Three varieties are cultivated here: Akihime, Saga Honoka, and Beni Hoppe. Ripened to a vivid red under Miyazaki's abundant sunshine, these strawberries are notably large, with many too big to eat in a single bite. Their juicy flesh releases plenty of sweet juice, while their refreshing fragrance fil...»
Miyazaki Prefecture is one of Japan's leading areas for eel aquaculture, and Sadowara is particularly well known for its eel production. It is said that eel farming began in this area because glass eels, the juvenile form of freshwater eels, were once caught here in abundance. Sadowara offers an environment well suited to raising eels. The groundwater of the Hitotsuse River contains a certain amo...»
Miyaura Ponkan is grown in the Miyaura district of Nichinan City, where the orchards benefit from abundant sunshine and refreshing sea breezes from the Hyuga-nada Sea. The fruit is large and has a vivid orange color, making it an attractive local citrus specialty....»
Nichinan No. 1 is an extra-early-ripening variety of Satsuma mandarin discovered in Miyazaki Prefecture. It is harvested and shipped in late summer, mainly during September and October, offering an opportunity to enjoy fresh mandarins earlier than many other varieties....»
Papaya is a tropical fruit native to Central America. Rich in nutrients, it is sometimes called the “fruit of angels” or the “medical fruit.” However, it is considered difficult to cultivate because it is sensitive to temperature changes and easily damaged....»
Kushima Paddy-Grown Burdock is a local specialty cultivated in the city of Kushima, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is grown in rice paddies during the period from autumn through winter, when the fields are otherwise left unused....»
Sadowara Eggplant is a traditional vegetable of Miyazaki Prefecture, named after the former Sadowara Domain, where it was once widely cultivated. It was long appreciated for its smooth texture and excellent flavor. However, the variety is sensitive to growing conditions, making it difficult to produce eggplants with consistent color and shape. Yields were also relatively low, and cultivation grad...»
Tsuwabuki is a perennial plant in the daisy family, native to Japan. Its leaves resemble those of the Japanese butterbur, and it grows naturally in mountainous areas near the warm coastal regions of Japan. From autumn through winter, tsuwabuki produces delicate yellow flowers. The plant is particularly familiar to residents of Nichinan City, where it has been selected as the city's official flowe...»
Miyakonojo is the largest producer of rakkyo in Miyazaki Prefecture. Rakkyo is a small bulb vegetable related to the onion and garlic, commonly eaten in Japan as a pickled accompaniment to meals....»
Carefully Cultivated Okra, with Fine White Hairs as a Sign of Freshness Okra is a delicate vegetable that requires careful attention not only to fertilizer and growing conditions, including humidity, but also to how it is handled after harvesting. In Kushima, Miyazaki Prefecture, many growers are involved in okra production. They share their knowledge and ideas and work together to cultivate hig...»
Yamadai Kansho sweet potatoes have been cultivated in Kushima City, in southern Miyazaki Prefecture, since the 1960s (the Showa 40s in Japan). The area has broad upland fields with plenty of sunshine and well-drained volcanic ash soil containing iron. These natural conditions are well suited to sweet potato cultivation, and production quickly became established in the region. Today, Yamadai Kans...»
A Distinctive Texture, Taste, and Aroma Developed Through Log Cultivation In Kitago Town, Miyazaki Prefecture, shiitake mushrooms are cultivated using traditional log-growing methods in an environment close to nature. The process begins by drilling holes into logs of trees such as Japanese sawtooth oak and inserting mushroom spawn plugs. The logs are then left to rest for approximately one year, ...»
An Unusual Mushroom That Looks Like an Ear and Is Essential to Chinese Cuisine Wood ear mushrooms, known in Japanese as kikurage, grow well in the fresh mountain air, where sunlight filters through the deep green foliage. In Miyakonojo City, they are cultivated in the Yamanokuchi district, an area where historical sites associated with the Shimazu domain still remain. The amount of moisture in t...»
A Representative Miyazaki Shochu with a Rich Aroma Kirishima is a signature authentic sweet potato shochu produced by Kirishima Shuzo. Blessed by the abundant natural environment of Kyushu, this shochu is known for its distinctive fragrance and full-bodied character. One of the features of its production is the blending of unaged shochu made using the company's own distinctive sweet potato koji ...»
A New Expression of Flavor from a Historic Brewery Kameshizuku is an authentic sweet potato shochu produced by Kyoya Sake Brewery, a historic brewery founded in 1834 (Tenpo 5). It is made using traditional large ceramic fermentation vats, known as kame, which have been passed down through generations. The main ingredients are Miyazaki Benihizume sweet potatoes, cultivated without agricultural ch...»
Small-Scale Production to Maintain Quality Toji Junpei is a distinctive sweet potato shochu produced by Kodama Jozo. Rather than pursuing mass production, the brewery follows the philosophy of making carefully crafted shochu in small batches, taking the time needed to maintain its quality. The shochu is made with a special white koji developed by the master distiller, Junpei, drawing on the expe...»
Made with Red-Fleshed Miyazaki Beni Sweet Potatoes and Natural Spring Water Himuka Kotobuki is a popular sweet potato shochu produced by Jukai Shuzo, a brewery dedicated to preserving the essence of authentic shochu, a traditional spirit deeply rooted in the culture of southern Kyushu. The main ingredient is Miyazaki Beni, a red-fleshed sweet potato grown in the fertile land of Kushima City, Miy...»
Carefully Aged in Large Ceramic Vats Mugetsu is an authentic sweet potato shochu produced by Sakura no Sato Brewing. It is made using carefully selected Koganesengan sweet potatoes, rice koji, and the abundant natural spring water of Kitago. After brewing and distillation, the shochu is transferred into large ceramic storage vats, known as kame, where it is aged for an extended period. The ceram...»
A Historic Shochu Produced Since the Late Edo Period Matsu no Tsuyu is an authentic sweet potato shochu that has been produced continuously since the brewery was founded in the late Edo period (1603–1868). The name, which can be translated as “Pine Dew,” is said to have been inspired by the beauty of morning dew dripping from pine needles. It is made primarily from carefully selected sweet potat...»
Yaezakura is a sweet potato shochu made using traditional methods at an earthen storehouse brewery said to be the only one of its kind in Miyazaki Prefecture. The brewery remains committed to time-honored techniques, including fermentation and storage in large ceramic jars, known as kame. Furusawa Brewing continues to preserve the traditional, handcrafted character of shochu rooted in the local c...»
Heizo is a sweet potato shochu produced by Sakuranomine Sake Brewery, a historic brewery founded in the Meiji period. The brewery places great importance on small-batch production and traditional craftsmanship. Both the first and second stages of fermentation are carefully carried out in ceramic jars called kame. This traditional method helps create a shochu with a gentle, pleasant aroma characte...»
While sweet potato shochu is especially popular in Miyazaki Prefecture, Yanagita Sake Brewery has continued to focus on barley shochu. Its signature brand, Koma, is a full-bodied-style authentic barley shochu made with carefully selected ingredients. Koma is produced using 100% carefully selected two-row barley grown in Kyushu. The brewing water comes from underground sources in the Kirishima mou...»
Nichinan City, in southern Miyazaki Prefecture, is a lush, green area blessed with abundant unspoiled nature. It is also home to forests of Obisugi cedar, renowned as some of Japan's finest forests. High-quality spring water flows from beneath these cedar forests. This water has been selected as one of the 21 Excellent Waters of Miyazaki and is used to make Obisugi, a sweet potato shochu produced...»
Distinctive Authentic Shochu Shaped by Miyazaki's Natural Environment Nichinan City, located in the southern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, is known as an area where shochu production flourishes. A wide range of shochu is made here, primarily from sweet potatoes, as well as from ingredients such as barley and buckwheat. Some local breweries have even won awards at international competitions....»
A Traditional Confectionery Made with Time-Honored Methods Hand-baked rice crackers from Obi are a traditional confectionery that originated in the historic town of Obi in Miyazaki Prefecture. Their distinctive shape is said to have been inspired by the pine trees of Obi Castle. These crackers are made without any additives, using only two ingredients: glutinous rice and sugar. Each one is caref...»
Original Shiitake Mushroom Rice is a well-known local ekiben, or Japanese boxed meal sold at railway stations, featuring the rich aroma and flavor of shiitake mushrooms simmered in a special sauce. The dish has been made with a secret simmering broth passed down from one generation to the next. Since it was first released in 1953 (Showa 28), the broth has been continuously replenished and used in...»
A New Local Specialty Born in Miyazaki Among Miyazaki's many traditional sweets, one relatively new creation has become a major hit: Cheese Manju. It is now firmly established as a local specialty of the prefecture and is particularly popular with women. This distinctive confection consists of a crisp, lightly baked pastry shell filled with cream cheese instead of the traditional sweet bean past...»
The Rich Flavor of Miyazaki-Grown Sweet Potatoes and Sesame Paste Miyazaki Beni is a sweet potato variety cultivated in Miyazaki Prefecture. It is distinguished by the vivid red color of its skin, which contrasts beautifully with its yellow flesh, as well as its streamlined shape. Its texture and sweetness are reminiscent of chestnuts, and it is also well suited to making roasted sweet potatoes. ...»
Aoshima's Famous Confection with More Than 100 Years of History Aoshima Uiro is a traditional sweet associated with Aoshima, a small island and one of Miyazaki's best-known sightseeing destinations. The island is approximately 1.5 kilometers in circumference and is surrounded by the remarkable wave-shaped rock formations known as Oni no Sentakuita, or the Devil's Washboard. The origins of Aoshim...»
Aoshima Rice Crackers were created nearly 50 years ago, after a thinly baked cracker was accidentally dropped into melted butter and turned out to be delicious. This unexpected discovery led to the creation of a confection that has become one of Miyazaki's best-known local sweets. The crackers have been enjoyed since the Showa era (1926–1989), when Miyazaki was a particularly popular destination ...»
Naga-Manju is a traditional sweet and a specialty of Takaoka in Miyazaki Prefecture. It is a long, stick-shaped confection made by wrapping sweet red bean paste in a soft dough prepared from rice flour. The ingredients are simple: rice flour, azuki beans, and sugar. The rice-flour dough is exceptionally soft, creating a distinctive texture that many people find irresistible from the first bite....»
Nanjakora Daifuku is a large, generously filled Japanese rice cake sweet created approximately 30 years ago by Kashino Hidaka, a confectionery shop in Miyazaki....»
A Japanese Sweet with a Western-Inspired Filling Cafe Mochi is a distinctive daifuku created by Jukohan, a Japanese confectionery maker. Its eye-catching package features a cute mochi-like character peeking out of a coffee cup, making it easy to spot in souvenir shops. As its name suggests, this sweet combines Japanese mochi with the familiar flavor of café au lait. The soft rice cake contains c...»
Whale Yokan is a traditional confection from Sadowara, in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Despite its name, it is not the firm, jelly-like yokan commonly found in Japan. Instead, it is a steamed sweet shaped to resemble a whale. It is made by kneading rice flour into a soft dough, placing sweet bean paste between layers of the dough, and steaming the assembled confection. Its flavor is simple...»
Aoshima Shrine is located on Aoshima Island in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The shrine stands near the center of the island, and the entire island is considered part of its sacred precincts, making it an unusual shrine setting. Its former official shrine rank was Sonsha, or village shrine. Today, it is listed among the shrines recognized by the Association of Shinto Shrines....»
Phoenix Seagaia Resort is a large resort complex located in Hamayama, Yamasaki-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. As of 2024, its official name is Phoenix Seagaia Resort. The name “Seagaia” is a coined word combining “Sea,” meaning the ocean, and “Gaia,” meaning the Earth. When it was first completed and opened, the resort was known as Miyazaki Seagaia. It was developed as part of an ambiti...»
Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo is located in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, next to Phoenix Seagaia Resort. It is a popular destination for both local residents and tourists, offering opportunities to encounter a wide variety of animals and enjoy the natural environment....»
Miyazaki Prefectural Museum is a comprehensive prefectural museum located in Miyazaki City. Through exhibitions on natural history, local history, and folklore, it introduces the region's natural environment, culture, and way of life. Outside the main building is a traditional house area known as the Folk House Garden, where historic residences from different parts of Miyazaki Prefecture have bee...»
Sumiyoshi Shrine is located in Shioji, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It was formerly classified as a village shrine and is known as the original shrine, or motomiya, of the many Sumiyoshi shrines found throughout Japan. The shrine has preserved a distinctive crest bearing the character 元 (“origin”), which represents this tradition and has been passed down through generations....»
The Miyazaki Prefectural Office is the administrative headquarters of Miyazaki Prefecture, located in Miyazaki City. The name refers to the main government building and the group of annexes and other facilities used for prefectural administration. The office is situated in the central part of Miyazaki City, in an area that includes Tachibana-dori, Asahi, and Miyata-cho, where many government offi...»
Heiwadai Park is a spacious urban park located on elevated ground in Shimokitakata-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Together with Miyazaki Prefectural Culture Park, it is managed by Park Management Miyazaki. The park is a popular place where visitors can experience both the natural environment and important historical landmarks. One of its most recognizable features is the Peace Tower, wh...»
Miyazaki Science Center is a municipal science museum located in Miyazaki Ekihigashi 1-chome, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Astronomy is its main theme, and the facility is affectionately known as Cosmoland. The center is located within Miyazaki Chuo Park, also known as Bunka no Mori. It features a planetarium described as one of the largest in the world, while outside the building visitors...»
Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum is a prefectural art museum located in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Its collection includes works by local artists as well as outstanding artists from Japan and overseas. As an important cultural center for the region, the museum offers visitors opportunities to encounter a wide range of art. The museum was designed by architect Shinichi Okada, who received ...»
Eda Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Awagihara-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It has a long history and is recognized as a Shikinaisha, a shrine listed in the ancient Engishiki records. Under the former shrine ranking system, it held the status of a prefectural shrine. Closely associated with Japanese mythology, Eda Shrine is regarded as a sacred place and continues to rece...»
The Oyodo River Learning Center is a science and nature learning facility located in Shimokitakata-cho, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Its exhibitions focus mainly on the natural environment and ecosystems of the Oyodo River basin. The center is a popular place for local residents and visitors to learn about the natural environment of Miyazaki City....»
Aoshima Subtropical Botanical Garden is a botanical garden in the Aoshima area of Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is home to a wide variety of subtropical plants and is also affectionately known as Miyako Botanical Garden Aoshima (Miyako Botanic Garden Aoshima). The garden stretches across from Aoshima Island. Aoshima is famous for its naturally growing subtropical plant community, which h...»
Miyazaki Comprehensive Athletic Park is a large prefectural sports and recreation complex located in Kumano, Miyazaki City, in southern Miyazaki Prefecture. Surrounded by abundant greenery and facing the Pacific Ocean, the park combines modern sporting facilities with a natural coastal environment. It serves as one of the prefecture's major centers for sports, training camps, recreation, and large...»
Tachibana Park Street is a scenic road in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, running along the northern bank of the Oyodo River. It offers a relaxing place to walk beside the water, enjoy the surrounding greenery, and admire the distinctive landscape of southern Kyushu. The street extends for approximately 800 meters, from the northern end of Tachibana Bridge near Miyazaki City Hall, along Natio...»
Aya Castle, also known as Ryuo Castle, is a reconstructed medieval mountain castle in Aya Town, Higashimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture. It recalls the turbulent age of samurai warfare and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history of the region through traditional-style wooden architecture and historical exhibits. The original castle is believed to have been constructed between ...»
Aya Town is located in Higashimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture, in southern Kyushu. It is widely recognized for its rich natural environment, commitment to organic agriculture, traditional crafts, and efforts to build a community that lives in harmony with nature. Rather than relying solely on conventional sightseeing attractions, Aya has developed its appeal around the relationship between...»
Teruha Suspension Bridge is a dramatic pedestrian suspension bridge in Aya Town, Higashimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Spanning the Honjo River, also known in this area as the Ayaminami River, the bridge offers sweeping views of a deep valley surrounded by the lush evergreen broadleaf forests of southern Kyushu. The bridge is one of Aya's signature attractions and an excellent destinatio...»
Aoshima Onsen is a hot spring area in the Aoshima district of Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Known for its abundant hot spring water, coastal scenery, and relaxed resort atmosphere, it is an inviting destination for travelers seeking both sightseeing and relaxation in southern Kyushu. The area stretches along the coast of the Hyuga-nada Sea, with Aoshima Island serving as one of its best-kno...»
Udo Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, on the southeastern coast of Kyushu. Its most distinctive feature is its main sanctuary, which stands inside a large sea cave halfway up a coastal cliff overlooking the Hyuga-nada Sea. This unusual arrangement makes Udo Shrine one of the most memorable places of worship in Miyazaki. Visitors descend toward the main sanc...»
The Nichinan Coast is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Miyazaki Prefecture, stretching along the southeastern coast of Kyushu. Facing the Hyuga-nada Sea and the Pacific Ocean, it is known for its deep blue waters, rugged cliffs, picturesque bays, unusual rock formations, and subtropical vegetation. The coastline extends through Miyazaki City, Nichinan City, and Kushima City, offering ...»
Obi Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in the Obi district of Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it served as the administrative center of the Obi Domain, ruled by the Ito family. The castle played an important role in the political and military history of southern Kyushu and remains one of the region's most significant historical attractions. The cas...»
Obi is a historic district in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, renowned for its beautifully preserved castle-town atmosphere. Often called the Little Kyoto of Kyushu, the area retains the character of a traditional Japanese town from the Edo period (1603–1868), with samurai residences, stone walls, traditional gates, hedges, and historic streets. Centered around the former Obi Castle, the dist...»
Yoshokan is a historic samurai residence located in front of the Otemon Gate of Obi Castle in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It stands within the Obi Traditional Buildings Preservation District and is designated as a cultural property by Nichinan City. Dating from the late Edo period (1603–1868), Yoshokan preserves the architectural features and refined atmosphere of a high-ranking samurai r...»
Horikawa Canal is a historic waterway in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, connecting the Hiroto River with Aburatsu Port. Measuring approximately 984 meters in length and around 30 meters in width, the canal was constructed during the Edo period to make the transportation of timber more efficient. The canal played an important role in the development of the former Obi Domain, particularly in t...»
Oshima, also known as Hyuga Oshima, is a beautiful island floating in the Hyuga-nada Sea off the coast of Miyazaki Prefecture. It belongs to Nakamuraotsu in Nango Town, Nichinan City, and is known for its natural surroundings and secluded island atmosphere. Under the Miyazaki Prefecture Remote Islands Promotion Plan, established in accordance with Japan's Remote Islands Development Act, Oshima is...»
Sekinoo Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Sekinoo-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is one of the 100 Best Waterfalls in Japan and is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers. The waterfall is situated within the Mochio-Sekinoo Prefectural Natural Park. Its dramatic scenery, geological formations, and surrounding natural environment make it one of the most impr...»
Kirishima Shuzo Co., Ltd. is a Japanese distillery headquartered in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, where it also operates its manufacturing facilities. The company specializes in the production and sale of authentic Japanese shochu, a traditional distilled spirit. It is particularly well known for its popular sweet-potato shochu brands, including Kuro Kirishima and Shiro Kirishima. In addi...»
Tuno Town is a small town in Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Blessed with abundant nature, a long history, and a variety of attractive sightseeing destinations, it offers visitors a relaxing place to enjoy the landscapes and culture of southern Kyushu. The town lies between the Kyushu Mountains and the Hyuga-nada Sea. Its varied landscape includes mountains, rivers, and a beautiful coastline,...»
Sorinbaru Memorial Tower is a historic memorial monument located in Kawaminami Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Designated a National Historic Site in 1933, it is an important place associated with the history of Kyushu. The tower was built to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Battle of Taka Castle, also known as the Battle of Mimikawa, during the Sengoku period (Warring State...»
Kawaminami Town is located in Koyu District in central Miyazaki Prefecture. It is known as one of Japan's three major pioneering settlements, a distinction reflecting its history of land development and agricultural settlement. The town is blessed with a rich natural environment: the Hyuga-nada Sea lies to the east, while the Osuzu Mountain Range rises to the west. Historically, much of the area ...»
Kijo Onsen is a hot spring facility located in Kijo Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Opened in April 2000, it is known for its thorough approach to hygiene and bathing-water management. As of the end of February 2021, the facility had never had to suspend operations because of the detection of Legionella bacteria. To maintain a safe and clean bathing environment, the facility checks chlo...»
Kijo Town is located in Koyu District in the central-eastern part of Miyazaki Prefecture. Surrounded by rich natural scenery and historical heritage, it is a peaceful town where visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere. The Komaru River flows through the center of the town, creating a scenic setting that is closely connected to local life. Although Kijo is inland and does n...»
Yunomiya Zaron Plum Tree is a nationally designated Natural Monument located in Shintomi Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Renowned for its distinctive history, legends, and cultural significance, this remarkable plum tree has been cherished by local residents for generations. It was designated a National Natural Monument on December 24, 1935, and continues to attract attention for its unu...»
Shintomi Town is located in Koyu District in central Miyazaki Prefecture. It is known as one of the major vegetable-producing areas of the Miyazaki Plain. With its fertile agricultural land, historical sites, natural attractions, and lively local events, Shintomi offers visitors an opportunity to discover the diverse character of this part of Miyazaki....»
The Saitobaru Burial Mounds are an extensive group of ancient burial tombs spread across the Miyada, Dojimaru, and Uematsu areas of Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Designated a Special Historic Site of Japan, they are among the largest and most important groups of burial mounds in the country. Their archaeological and historical significance has attracted attention from researchers and visitors i...»
The Miyazaki Prefectural Saitobaru Archaeological Museum is a public museum specializing in archaeology, located in the Saitobaru area of Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It stands close to the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, a group of ancient tombs designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. The museum preserves and exhibits archaeological materials from the burial mounds and other archaeological s...»
The Remains of Hyuga Kokubunji Temple are located in Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. They preserve the site of an ancient Buddhist temple that existed from the Nara period through to the early modern era. Hyuga Kokubunji was one of the provincial temples established throughout Japan under an imperial order issued by Emperor Shomu during the Nara period. These temples were built to protect the nat...»
Ebino Plateau is a basin-shaped highland in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture, surrounded by Mount Karakuni, Mount Ebino, Mount Shiratori, and Mount Koshiki, which form part of the Kirishima mountain range in southern Kyushu. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters, the plateau is known for its beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons and its rich ecosystem....»
Shiratori Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Suenaga, Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The hot springs emerge along the route from the center of Ebino City toward Ebino Plateau. Situated on the middle slopes of Mount Shiratori in the Kirishima mountain range, the area offers visitors a relaxing hot spring experience surrounded by mountain scenery. Shiratori Onsen should not be confused with ...»
Kyomachi Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture, in the former province of Hyuga. It is one of Miyazaki Prefecture's representative hot spring destinations and is sometimes known collectively as the Kyomachi Onsen Resort Area. Surrounded by the mountains of the Kirishima range and the natural landscapes of Ebino, the area is a relaxing destination where vi...»
Kurusonkyo Gorge is a beautiful gorge extending for approximately 10 kilometers along the upper reaches of the Sendai River in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The name is also commonly written as "Kur uson Gorge" (Kuruson-kyo). Known for its magnificent natural scenery and deep historical connections, the area is a popular destination for visitors who appreciate nature and history....»
Fudo Pond is a beautiful volcanic lake located in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture, in the northeastern part of Ebino Plateau in southern Kyushu. Measuring approximately 200 meters in diameter, the pond is surrounded by steep slopes and offers a peaceful natural setting. Its distinctive deep-blue water is one of its most striking features, attracting visitors who come to admire the scenery....»
Takanabe Castle was a Japanese castle that once stood in Takanabe Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Classified as a hirayama-style castle, built on a hill with its surrounding terrain incorporated into the defenses, it was also known as Maizuru Castle. Its former name was Tak ar abe Castle (Tak ar abe-jo), written as 財部城. The castle was once counted among the 48 castles of the Ito clan, k...»
Takanabe Daishi is an unusual collection of stone statues located in Mochida, Takanabe Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Closely connected with the area's history and culture, the site features numerous stone figures created to console the spirits associated with the Mochida Kofun Burial Mounds. The distinctive landscape of statues offers visitors a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere....»
Takanabe Town is located in Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is a charming town where rich natural surroundings and historical heritage exist in harmony. During the Edo period (1603–1868), Takanabe developed as a castle town under the Takanabe Domain. Today, historical landmarks and sightseeing attractions can still be found throughout the town, alongside numerous places where visitors can e...»
Tsuno Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Tsuno Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is the Ichinomiya, or highest-ranking shrine, of the former Hyuga Province and is listed as a Shikinaisha, a shrine recorded in the ancient Engishiki. Its former official shrine rank was Kokuhei Shosha, a shrine supported by the national government. Today, it is designated as a Beppyo Shrine unde...»
Yatogi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Tsuno Town, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Waterfalls, it is a scenic natural attraction within Osuzu Prefectural Natural Park. The waterfall lies in Yatogi Valley, along the upper reaches of the Nanuki River, which flows down the eastern side of Mount Osuzu....»
Kojima Island, also known as Koshima, is an uninhabited island floating in the Hyuga-nada Sea off the eastern coast of Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It lies approximately 400 meters offshore from Ishinami Beach. The small island has a circumference of approximately 4 kilometers and reaches an elevation of 113 meters. Kojima is famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques. Along with T...»
The Former Yoshimatsu Family Residence is a historic house located in Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The main residence and its associated buildings were completed in 1919 (Taisho 8). On December 2, 2008, the property was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It is particularly highly regarded because the overall layout and composition of the estate have survived intact. This la...»
Located at the southernmost tip of Miyazaki Prefecture, Kushima City is known for its beautiful coastline, historic buildings, and opportunities to encounter wildlife. Agriculture and fisheries are also important local industries, and the city's specialties are recognized throughout Japan. From dramatic coastal scenery and wild horses to traditional festivals and local food, Kushima offers visitor...»
Sunmesse Nichinan is a popular tourist attraction in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Located on a small hill overlooking the Nichinan Coast, the park attracts visitors from both Japan and overseas. Its most iconic feature is a group of seven enormous Moai statues, reconstructed with official permission from the Council of Elders of Easter Island. Faithfully modeled on the Ahu Akivi statues on ...»
Nichinan Phoenix Road is a scenic coastal route stretching approximately 85 kilometers from central Miyazaki City, passing the Aoshima area, Horikiri Pass, and Nichinan City before continuing along National Routes 220 and 448 to Cape Toi, at the southernmost tip of Miyazaki Prefecture. This popular sightseeing area is dotted with many of the prefecture's most famous attractions and is renowned for...»
Kushima Shrine is a historic shrine located in Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Its principal deity is Hikohohodemi-no-Mikoto, and another 12 deities are also enshrined here. Although the exact date of its founding is unknown, the shrine has been a place of worship in this area since ancient times....»
Idenoyama Park is a nature-rich park located in Idenoyama, Minaminishikata, Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The park features a beautiful pond and abundant spring water, creating a natural habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. Its clear water, lush surroundings, and historical legends make it a peaceful destination where visitors can enjoy both nature and local culture. ...»
Sannomiya Gorge is a scenic natural destination in Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Its spectacular landscape of unusual rock formations was created over an immense period of geological time. Approximately 340,000 years ago, a massive volcanic eruption produced the Kaku-to pyroclastic-flow deposits. Over many years, the Hamanose River eroded the welded tuff layers, gradually carving the distin...»
The Yin-Yang Stone is a remarkable natural rock formation located in the Iwase River, also known as the Hamanose River, in the Higashikata area of Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The two rocks are famous for their unusual shapes, which resemble the male and female symbols of fertility, and are often described as a pair of husband-and-wife rocks. Formed from deposits of the Kakuto pyroclastic...»
Mount Hinamori is a volcanic mountain located in the northeastern part of the Kirishima mountain range in southern Kyushu. It forms part of the Kirishima volcanic complex and is known for its distinctive mountain profile, geological history, and rich natural environment. Its impressive shape and long-standing connection with local beliefs have made it an important landmark for the people of the re...»
Kirishimamine Shrine is located in Hosono, Kobayashi City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is known as one of the candidate shrines identified with a shrine recorded in the ancient Engishiki, a collection of regulations and official records from the Heian period. Its former shrine rank was Prefectural Shrine. As one of the shrines dedicated to the deities of the Kirishima Mountains, it has played an impor...»
Yunomoto Onsen is a historic hot spring located in Kamamuta, Takaharu Town, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture, in the former Hyuga Province. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Takaharu area, this long-established hot spring has welcomed both local residents and visitors from farther afield for generations....»
Miike Pond is a nearly circular volcanic crater lake located on the border between Miyakonojo City and Takaharu Town in Miyazaki Prefecture. With a diameter of approximately 1 kilometer and a circumference of 3.9 kilometers, this beautiful lake reflects the impressive silhouette of Mount Takachiho-no-Mine on its surface. It is one of the signature natural landscapes of the eastern Kirishima Mounta...»
Sano Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Takaharu Town, Nishimorokata District, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is known as one of the six Gongen shrines of Kirishima and has a long-standing connection with the mythology surrounding Emperor Jimmu, traditionally regarded as Japan's first emperor. The shrine's former official rank was Prefectural Shrine. It was later designated as an auxiliary sh...»
Aoidake Onsen is a hot spring facility located in Yamanokuchi-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. The facility, known as Aoidake-so, stands within Aoidake Natural Park, an area surrounded by abundant natural scenery. Its distinctive silky, slightly viscous hot spring water makes it a popular place to relax and unwind....»
Toi Cape is a scenic headland in Ōno, Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture, facing the Pacific Ocean. Located at the eastern end of Shibushi Bay and the southern end of the Hyuga-nada Sea, it is known for its spectacular coastal scenery and rich natural environment. The cape is particularly famous for its population of semi-wild Misaki horses, which roam freely across its grasslands....»
Tachibana Astronomical Observatory is a public observatory located in Takasaki-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It opened on October 5, 1991, in the former town of Takasaki, which was selected seven times from 1987 onward as the town with the clearest starry skies in Japan. The observatory was established to make the most of the area's exceptionally beautiful night skies and provide visi...»
Takachiho Ranch is a dairy producer and visitor attraction located in Yoshin moto-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, at the foot of the Kirishima Mountains. Its spacious grounds offer opportunities to interact with farm animals, enjoy meals made with ingredients associated with the ranch, and purchase dairy and meat products made on site....»
Mochioka is a hilly area on the western outskirts of Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is part of Mochioka-Sekinoo Prefectural Natural Park and is a popular sightseeing destination where natural beauty and historical heritage come together. Mochioka Park, in particular, is renowned for its cherry blossoms and has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots....»
Nichinan City is located in the southern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, facing the Pacific Ocean along the Hyuga-nada Sea. The city is known for its combination of historical heritage and tropical coastal scenery. It was once the castle town of the Ito clan's Obi Domain, and Obi, often called the “Little Kyoto of Kyushu,” still preserves much of its traditional atmosphere. The city also includes par...»
Miyakonojo Historical Museum is a municipal history museum located in Miyakonojo-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It opened on October 20, 1989, and preserves and exhibits historical and cultural materials that introduce the rich heritage of the Miyakonojo area....»
Kanbashiragu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Formerly classified as a Prefectural Shrine, it is now designated as a Beppyo Shrine, a special category of shrine listed by the Association of Shinto Shrines. Affectionately known by local residents as “Okambashira,” it has long been revered as the principal guardian shrine of the region....»
Toi Cape Lighthouse is a large white lighthouse standing on the cliffs of Toi Cape in Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Situated at an elevation of 240 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean. It has also been selected as one of Japan's “50 Best Lighthouses.” Located at the southernmost end of Nichinan Kaigan Quasi-National Park, the lighthouse is a scenic landm...»
The Misaki horses (Misaki-uma), also known as Misaki wild horses, are a breed of Japanese native horse living at Toi Cape in Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture. They have been designated a Natural Monument of Japan and are a rare example of Japanese horses living in a semi-wild state in their natural habitat. This article introduces the physical characteristics and history of the Misaki horses, ho...»
Located in central Miyazaki Prefecture, Saito City is a fascinating destination where history and nature exist in harmony. The city is home to numerous historical sites, including the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, one of Japan's largest groups of ancient burial mounds, and Tonokori Castle, once the residence of the Ito clan, rulers of Hyuga Province. It is also blessed with abundant natural beauty, inc...»
Karikobozu Bridge is a wooden road bridge spanning the Hitotsuse River in the Tanase area of Murasho, Nishimera Village, Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture. With a total length of 140.0 meters, it is the longest wooden road bridge in Japan and also has the country's longest span for this type of bridge. It carries the Koyama-Shige Forest Road and has become a symbol of Nishimera Village. The brid...»
Nishimera Village is a beautiful, nature-rich village in Koyu District, Miyazaki Prefecture, nestled deep in the Kyushu Mountains. Forests cover 96% of its total area, and it is also known as the municipality with the smallest population in Miyazaki Prefecture. With its spectacular natural surroundings and fascinating history, the village offers visitors a chance to experience a quieter, more secl...»
Hitotsuse Dam is an arch concrete dam standing 130 meters high on the Hitotsuse River system in Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. It was built for hydroelectric power generation and supplies water to Hitotsuse Power Station, operated by Kyushu Electric Power. The power station has a maximum output of 180,000 kilowatts. The artificial lake created by the dam is known as Lake Merako. In addition to ...»
Tonokori Castle was a mountain castle located in Saito City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Designated a National Historic Site of Japan, it was built in 1337 by Ito Sukemochi and was one of the castles belonging to the Ito clan, which controlled parts of Hyuga Province. It was also known as Ukifune Castle, meaning “Floating Boat Castle.” The castle's main enclosure is additionally associated with Takaya no...»