Miyazaki

Miyazaki is a southern seaside city with the saturation turned up: impossibly blue seas, mysterious myth-steeped gorges, and superb food. Here is a travel guide covering both the classic coastline and the hidden gems of the north, to help you explore Miyazaki efficiently!

Classic Coastline Day Trip (No-Car Friendly)

This route follows the Nichinan Coast and can be completed entirely by bus, making it ideal for first-time visitors to Miyazaki who do not want to drive.

• ​​Aoshima Shrine​​: Step onto a small island surrounded by subtropical plants, cross the vermilion Yayoi Bridge, and at low tide see the wave-eroded natural wonder known as the “Devil’s Washboard.” It is also a sacred spot for praying for good relationships and marriage.

• ​​Sun Messe Nichinan​​: The only place in the world officially authorized by Easter Island to display replica Moai statues. Seven giant stone figures face the Pacific Ocean, creating a spectacular backdrop, and the park also has sky swings that are great for photos.

• ​​Udo Jingu Shrine​​: Built inside a cliffside cave facing the Pacific Ocean, where vermilion torii gates contrast beautifully with the sea. Be sure to try throwing undama lucky stones toward the “Turtle Rock” below the cliff—if one lands in the target, your wish is said to come true.

​​🚌 Transportation and Timetable Tips​​: Buy the ​​VISIT MIYAZAKI BUS PASS (2,000-yen one-day pass)​​ at Miyazaki Station; it pays for itself after just two bus rides. It is recommended to depart from Miyazaki Station a little after 9 a.m. and catch the last bus back to Miyazaki from Udo Jingu Shrine a little after 4 p.m. Be sure to pick up a timetable in advance at the tourist information center and time your rides carefully.

Northern Mythic Hidden-Scenery Trip (Self-Drive or Chartered Car Recommended)

If you want to see even more dramatic natural scenery, plan a day trip to Takachiho in the north. Transportation here is relatively inconvenient, so driving yourself or hiring a car offers the best experience.

• ​​Takachiho Gorge​​: Known as the “birthplace of Japanese mythology,” its emerald-green gorge waters shimmer softly, while the 17-meter-high Manai Falls pours down from above. Boating is highly recommended—the experience of gliding between columnar rock walls is incredibly impressive (tickets must be booked online 15 days in advance).

• ​​Amanoyasugawara​​: Located near Amanoiwato Shrine, this spot is filled with stone towers stacked by visitors among mountain streams and woodland paths. It has a natural energy and mysterious atmosphere reminiscent of “Princess Mononoke,” and is well suited to light hiking.

Must-Eat Foods and Restaurant Recommendations

Miyazaki is a top food destination, and you should not miss anything from premium wagyu to local-style fried chicken.

• ​​Miyazaki Beef Yakiniku​​: Recommended is ​​Koukaen​​, the first officially certified designated restaurant. The A4-grade-and-above wagyu melts in your mouth; booking a set course through the official website in advance is recommended.

• ​​Chicken Nanban​​: A signature way to enjoy Miyazaki jidori chicken. The long-established Western-style restaurant ​​Ogura​​ is recommended; the chicken is crispy outside and tender inside, and the tartar sauce makes it especially appetizing.

• ​​Seafood Rice Bowls and Lobster​​: At ​​Ryōshi no Aji Minato Aoshima​​ in Aoshima Fishing Port, fresh seafood is displayed right at the counter. The seafood set meal is recommended, and you can enjoy it while looking out at the sea.
• ​​Nishitachi District​​: Miyazaki’s largest dining and nightlife district, brightly lit at night. You can hop from charcoal-grilled chicken to izakaya, then finish late at night with a bowl of spicy noodles at ​​Ganso Karamenya Masumoto​​.

Practical Tips to Avoid Pitfalls

• ​​Transportation Warning​​: Buses in the Miyazaki suburbs run very infrequently, with even fewer services on weekends and holidays. If you miss one, you may have to wait an hour or even find there is no bus back to the city. If traveling with several people, renting a car is strongly recommended; the coastal road scenery is excellent.
• ​​Sun Protection and What to Wear​​: The Nichinan Coast gets strong sunlight during the day, so be sure to use sun protection. You will also need to climb slopes and stairs between sights, so comfortable sneakers are essential.
• ​​Food and Drink Preparation​​: There are very few restaurants around Sun Messe Nichinan and Udo Jingu Shrine, so it is recommended to bring some snacks and water to avoid going hungry if you miss mealtime.