Miyazaki Travel Guide for Japanese Learners
Sunny Pacific coast, surf, and shrines wrapped in myth.
Miyazaki on Kyūshū's southeast coast has a mild, sunny climate, palm-lined drives, and deep ties to Japan's creation myths at Takachiho Gorge.
History & background
Miyazaki (宮崎) is steeped in Japan's creation myths; Takachiho (高千穂) is said to be where the sun goddess's grandson descended to earth. Its sunny coast made it a honeymoon hotspot in the Shōwa era.
What to see
- Takachiho Gorge
- Udo Shrine in a seaside cave
- Aoshima island and shrine
- Nichinan coast
What to eat
Chicken nanban and Miyazaki mango.
Getting there & when to go
Getting there: Miyazaki is reached by air from major cities, or by limited express within Kyūshū.
Best time: Summer for surf and mango; any season for the mild coast.
When to go — season by season
Warm and sunny much of the year. Summer suits surfing and mango season; autumn is good for the gorge and shrines.
A suggested visit
Row a boat beneath the waterfall in Takachiho Gorge and see its night kagura dance, then follow the Nichinan (日南) coast to the cave shrine of Udo Jingū (鵜戸神宮) and palm-fringed Aoshima (青島).
Row a boat into Takachiho Gorge for the classic view of the waterfall up close.
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