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.
Mochioka is located on a Shirasu plateau between the Yokoichi River and the Shonai River, both tributaries of the Oyodo River. The eastern part of the plateau is approximately 170 meters above sea level, while its highest point reaches 288 meters. The area’s terrain was formed from Maruyama Lava, which erupted during the Pliocene Epoch of the Neogene Period. This distinctive geological landscape contributes to the area’s scenic character.
Mochioka Park is widely known for its cherry blossoms and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots. The history of cherry tree planting in the area dates back to 1869 (Meiji 2), when Michitsune Mishima arrived as the local district administrator and planted cherry trees. Planting continued in later years through the efforts of Tsunejiro Kuroiwa and, after the beginning of the Showa era, Yoshitaro Enatsu.
Today, approximately 2,600 cherry trees line the park, including Somei Yoshino, double-flowered cherry trees (yaezakura), and wild mountain cherry trees (yamazakura).
The Mochio Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year from late March to early April, attracting many visitors. During the season, visitors can stroll beneath the tunnel of cherry blossoms and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of spring.
Mochioka Shrine was established in 1870 (Meiji 3) by Michitsune Mishima. Groups of enormous rocks are scattered around the shrine and have been objects of worship since ancient times. The shrine also offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, providing visitors with a peaceful place to appreciate both the area’s natural scenery and its spiritual heritage.
Mochioka-Sekinoo Prefectural Natural Park was designated as a prefectural natural park on September 1, 1958 (Showa 33). It covers an area of 6.34 square kilometers. Although it is the smallest prefectural natural park in Miyazaki Prefecture, it contains a wealth of natural attractions and scenic places.
Mochioka is best known for its cherry blossoms. In spring, the park is covered with flowers in full bloom, creating a beautiful landscape for visitors. Around Mochioka Shrine, large rocks that have long been objects of worship can also be found, offering a sense of the close relationship between the area’s natural environment and its history.
Sekinoo Falls is one of the most popular attractions within the natural park. Around the waterfall lies a group of potholes carved into the bedrock by flowing water, which has been designated a Natural Monument of Japan. The impressive scenery demonstrates the power of nature, and the surrounding landscape can be enjoyed throughout the changing seasons.
Mochioka-Sekinoo Prefectural Natural Park, which includes Mochioka and Sekinoo Falls, is a destination where natural beauty and historical heritage come together. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal beauty of the cherry blossoms, the impressive scenery of the waterfall, and the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding landscape.