Miyazaki

Miyazaki has a warm climate, and the coastal sun can be strong, so remember to protect yourself from the sun when going out.

Miyazaki is a seaside city with a strong southern atmosphere, offering wide blue coastlines, gorge scenery connected to myths and legends, and plenty of food choices. The itinerary below covers the classic Nichinan Coast route and the northern Takachiho area, making it suitable for planning a first trip to Miyazaki.

Classic Coastline Day Trip (No Car Needed)

This route follows the Nichinan Coast and can mainly be done by bus, making it a good choice for first-time visitors to Miyazaki who do not plan to drive.

• Aoshima Shrine: Aoshima Shrine is located on a small island surrounded by subtropical plants, and you will cross the vermilion Yayoi Bridge on the way there. At low tide, you can see the “Devil’s Washboard,” a rock formation created by wave erosion along the shore. The shrine is also known as a place to pray for good relationships.

• Sun Messe Nichinan: This is the only place in the world officially authorized by Easter Island to display replica Moai statues. Seven large statues stand in a row facing the Pacific Ocean, with wide-open views. The park also has an aerial swing, making it a good spot for coastal photos.

• Udo Jingu Shrine: This shrine is built inside a cliffside cave facing the Pacific Ocean, where the vermilion torii gates stand beautifully against the sea views. During your visit, you can try throwing undama lucky stones toward the “Turtle Rock” below the cliff. It is said that if you hit the target, your wish may come true.

🚌 Transport and Timetable Tips: You can buy a VISIT MIYAZAKI BUS PASS (2,000 yen one-day pass) at Miyazaki Station. Taking the bus twice is usually enough to make the pass worthwhile. It is recommended to leave Miyazaki Station a little after 9:00 in the morning, then take the last bus back to Miyazaki from Udo Jingu Shrine a little after 4:00 in the afternoon. Before setting off, be sure to pick up a timetable at the tourist information center and plan your sightseeing around the bus times.

Northern Mythical Scenery Trip (Driving or Chartered Car Recommended)

If you want to see more dramatic natural scenery, you can plan a day trip to Takachiho in the north. Public transport in the area is relatively inconvenient, so driving or hiring a car will make the trip more relaxed.

• Takachiho Gorge: This area is known as the “home of Japanese mythology.” The gorge water is emerald green, and the 17-meter-high Manai Falls drops from between the rock walls. If time allows, boating is recommended so you can pass between the columnar rock cliffs. Boat tickets need to be reserved online 15 days in advance.

• Amanoyasugawara: Amanoyasugawara is located near Amano Iwato Shrine. Along the mountain stream, you will find many small stone towers stacked by visitors. The setting is quiet and slightly mysterious, making it suitable for a short light hike.

Must-Try Food and Restaurant Recommendations

Miyazaki’s food scene is very representative of the region, from Miyazaki beef to chicken nanban, and is well worth including in your itinerary.

• Miyazaki Beef Yakiniku: Consider Kokaen, the first officially certified designated restaurant. The restaurant serves A4-grade and higher wagyu, with tender, delicate meat. It is recommended to reserve a set meal in advance on the official website.

• Chicken Nanban: This is one of the signature ways to enjoy Miyazaki local chicken. The long-established Western-style restaurant Ogura is well known for it. The fried chicken is crispy on the outside and tender inside, and is served with tartar sauce.

• Seafood Bowls and Lobster: Ryoshi no Aji Minato Aoshima at Aoshima Fishing Port is known for fresh seafood, with the seafood displayed directly at the counter. You can choose a seafood set meal and enjoy the ocean view while you eat.
• Nishitachi District: This is one of Miyazaki’s larger dining and nightlife areas, with lively lights at night. It is a good place to try charcoal-grilled chicken and izakaya dishes. At the end of your itinerary, you can also go to Ganso Karamenya Masumoto for a bowl of spicy noodles.

Practical Tips

• Transport reminder: Buses in Miyazaki’s suburban areas are infrequent, and services are even more limited on weekends and public holidays. If you miss one bus, you may need to wait an hour, or you may even be unable to return to the city center the same day. If traveling with several people, renting a car is more flexible, and the coastal roads are very scenic.
• Sun protection and clothing: The Nichinan Coast gets strong daytime sun, so prepare sun protection. Some sights require walking uphill or climbing stairs, so comfortable sneakers are a better choice.
• Food and drink preparation: There are fewer restaurant choices around Sun Messe Nichinan and Udo Jingu Shrine, so it is a good idea to carry some snacks and water in case you miss mealtimes.