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 ambitious effort to revitalize Miyazaki as a tourist destination and was the first project designated under Japan’s Comprehensive Resort Area Development Law, commonly known as the Resort Law. The project brought together public and private investment, with Phoenix Resort operating the facilities through a third-sector company funded by Miyazaki Prefecture and Miyazaki City.
The resort is located in the Hitotsuba area of Miyazaki City. It was built on coastal land where pine forests had previously been planted as windbreaks.
In July 1993, some facilities began operating, including Ocean Dome, then one of the world’s largest indoor swimming pools, as well as golf courses. The resort officially opened in its entirety in October 1994, when hotels, an international convention center, and amusement facilities were completed.
A major advertising campaign was launched in preparation for the opening. Singer and actress Yoko Oginome appeared in television commercials, while Yume Suzuki and Shizuka Kudo performed commercial songs. Sting also served as the campaign’s musical ambassador and commercial personality, and performed at a concert celebrating the resort’s full opening.
This landmark hotel stands 154 meters tall and has 43 floors. It originally opened as Hotel Ocean 45. Following its acquisition by Ripplewood, it was renamed Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort.
Luxe Hitotsuba is a condominium-style accommodation designed for guests who wish to enjoy longer stays.
Cottage Himuka consists of 14 buildings with a total of 72 rooms, including detached cottages and accommodation suitable for groups.
Florante Miyazaki is an urban park featuring a botanical garden. It originally served as the main venue for Green Expo Miyazaki ‘99, the 16th National Urban Greenery Fair.
Shōsenshū is the resort’s hot spring facility. It includes the large public bath Tsukuyomi, the medium-sized bath Shingetsu, and five private detached baths.
This relaxation facility is located on the 39th floor of Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort.
The tennis academy has 20 courts, including a center court capable of hosting international competitions. Four of the courts are indoors.
Located within the resort area, Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo is home to approximately 100 species and 1,500 animals. Visitors can observe a wide variety of animals in environments designed to resemble their natural habitats.
Phoenix Country Club is a prestigious golf course located on the coastal side of Sun Hotel Phoenix. Every November, it hosts the Dunlop Phoenix Tournament, a men’s professional golf tour event.
Located on the coastal side of Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort, this golf course was designed by Tom Watson.
The academy is led by Kengo Honda, who studied golf theory and teaching methods in Florida, in the southern United States.
Phoenix Seagaia Resort can be reached via the adjacent Hitotsuba Toll Road. The road is also known for its beautiful ocean views, making the journey itself part of the coastal resort experience.
In 2019, the resort marked 25 years since its full opening. It has continued to develop as a major destination attracting visitors to Miyazaki.