Miyazaki 4-Day Itinerary: A Journey Through Japan’s Scenic Southern Coast

What Sort of Place Is Miyazaki, Japan?

Miyazaki Prefecture, located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu, is known for its warm climate, stunning coastal scenery, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of around 1.1 million people, Miyazaki is relatively rural compared to Japan’s bustling metropolises, which adds to its charm. The region is famous for its slow pace of life, friendly locals, and deep connection to nature. With so-called natural parks making up 12% of the prefecture’s land, visitors to Miyazaki can expect to encounter a landscape that is as diverse as it is beautiful, ranging from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to lush mountains and serene rivers.

Historically, Miyazaki has played a significant role in Japan’s spiritual and cultural development. The area is deeply rooted in Shinto mythology, with many of Japan’s creation myths centered around Miyazaki’s natural landmarks. For example, Takachiho Gorge is said to be where the sun goddess Amaterasu hid, bringing darkness to the world until she was coaxed out of her cave. This mythological significance is still felt today, as many of the region’s shrines and temples continue to attract pilgrims and tourists alike. Udo Shrine, perched dramatically on seaside cliffs, is a prime example of Miyazaki’s unique blend of nature and spirituality.

In addition to its spiritual importance, Miyazaki is also known for its thriving agricultural industry. The prefecture is one of Japan’s largest producers of tropical fruits, including its famous Miyazaki mangoes, which are prized for their sweetness and rich flavor. Miyazaki beef, one of Japan’s top brands of wagyu, is another local specialty that has gained international acclaim. The combination of fertile soil, abundant sunshine, and a long growing season make Miyazaki a foodie’s paradise.

How to Get There From Tokyo

Traveling from Tokyo to Miyazaki is both convenient and straightforward. The fastest and most efficient way to get to Miyazaki from Tokyo is by taking a direct flight from Haneda Airport or Narita Airport to Miyazaki Airport. Flights typically take around 1 hour and 45 minutes (2 hours and 15 minutes from Narita Airport), and there are several airlines that operate daily flights between the two cities, including All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL).

For those who prefer to travel by train, the journey from Tokyo to Miyazaki can be a bit lengthy, but the comfort and punctuality of Japanese trains make the journey a breeze. However, this mode of transport is mainly recommended for those wanting to make stops to explore other destinations along the way.

You’ll first need to take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, which takes about 5 hours. From Hakata, you can transfer to another shinkansen bound for Kagoshima (1.5 hours) before boarding a limited express train to Miyazaki Station (around 2 hours).

How to Get There From Osaka

Getting to Miyazaki from Osaka is quick and easy, with several direct flights available from Itami Airport. The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it the fastest and most convenient option for travelers coming from the Kansai region. Major airlines such as ANA and JAL offer multiple flights per day, so you can easily find a flight that fits your schedule.

If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, which takes about 2.5 hours. From Hakata, you can transfer to another shinkansen bound for Kagoshima (1.5 hours) before boarding a limited express train to Miyazaki Station (around 2 hours). Similarly to when accessing from Tokyo as described above, this route is mainly recommended for those interested in making stops along the way.

For those looking for slow-travel adventures, there is another option from the Kansai region: the car ferry from Kobe to Miyazaki. From Osaka Station, hop on a local train to Sannomiya Station (30-40 minutes), then take the bus to Kobe Sannomiya Ferry Terminal (10 minutes). Ferries depart almost daily at 19:10 (weekdays) or 18:00 (weekends), arriving in Miyazaki at 8:40 the next morning. Onboard cabins include a wide range of options, from basic dormitory-style rooms to comfortable Western-style bedrooms with views of the ocean.

How to Get There From Fukuoka

For travelers coming from Fukuoka, there are several convenient options for getting to Miyazaki. To take advantage of Japan’s famously efficient train system, take the shinkansen from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Kagoshima (1.5 hours), then transfer to a limited express train to Miyazaki Station (around 2 hours).

Alternatively, you can fly from Fukuoka Airport to Miyazaki Airport, with flights taking about 1 hour. Several daily departures by major airlines ANA and JAL makes it easy to find one that fits your schedule.

If your schedule is tight, consider joining a 1-day tour to one of Miyazaki’s highlights, Takachiho. The tour includes return transportation between Fukuoka and Takachiho, lunch, and an English-speaking guide to make sure you make the most of your visit to this enchanting southern prefecture.

How to Get Around Miyazaki Prefecture

When it comes to getting around Miyazaki Prefecture, renting a car is highly recommended. While public transportation is available in some areas, it can be infrequent and may not reach all of the region’s best attractions. Having a car allows you to explore at your own pace and visit some of the more remote locations that might be difficult to reach by bus or train. Several rental car companies are located at Miyazaki Airport and close to Miyazaki Station, making it easy to pick up your car after arrival (reservations recommended)

Day 1: Coastal Shrines and Tropical Delights

Aoshima Shrine

Access: a 20-minute ride from Miyazaki Airport to Aoshima

On your first day in Miyazaki, arrive at Miyazaki Airport and pick up your rental car and drive to your first destination: Aoshima, a small island located just off the coast. This island is famous for its unique geological formation known as the "Devil’s Washboard," a series of natural rock formations that resemble the ridges of a washboard. These formations are the result of millions of years of erosion and make for a stunning sight, particularly at low tide when the rocks are fully exposed.

While on Aoshima, be sure to visit Aoshima Shrine, a picturesque Shinto shrine located in the center of the island. The shrine is surrounded by a dense subtropical forest and is dedicated to the gods of the sea and marriage. The peaceful atmosphere and lush surroundings make it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation. Visitors can also purchase charms and amulets at the shrine, many of which are said to bring good luck in love and relationships.

Try Mango Treats at Palo Borracho Café

Access: a 17-minute walk from Aoshima Shrine to Palo Borracho Café

After exploring Aoshima, take a break and indulge in one of Miyazaki’s most famous local delicacies: the Miyazaki mango. Known for its rich sweetness and intense flavor, Miyazaki mangoes are a must-try for any visitor to the region. You can enjoy this tropical fruit in a variety of forms, from fresh slices to mango-flavored desserts and smoothies. One recommended spot is the Palo Borracho Café, which offers a variety of mango treats in a relaxing setting on their outdoor terrace.

Savor the Region’s Freshest Seafood at Ryoshi no Aji-Minato Aoshima

Access: a 3-minute ride or a 15-minute walk from Palo Borracho Café

For lunch, head to Ryoshi no Aji-Minato Aoshima. This seafood restaurant is a local favorite that serves up some of the freshest seafood in the area, with a menu that includes sashimi, grilled fish, and other traditional Japanese dishes. The menu is small but includes highlights such as “kaisendon,” a rice bowl topped with a generous helping of fresh seafood, and a set meal featuring Ise spiny lobster. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to refuel before continuing your journey.

Fuji no Totoro

Access: a 20-minute’ drive from Ryoshi no Aji-Minato Aoshima

After lunch, make a stop at Fuji no Totoro (20 minutes’ drive), a small roadside attraction featuring a statue of the beloved character Totoro from the Studio Ghibli film “My Neighbor Totoro”. This quirky stop is perfect for a quick photo opportunity and a fun way to break up the drive to your next destination: Udo Shrine.

Udo Shrine

Access: a 15-minute ride from Fuji no Totoro

Located on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Udo Shrine is one of Miyazaki’s most dramatic and picturesque shrines. Udo Shrine is dedicated to Ugayafukiaezu no Mikoto, a local Shinto god, and its location above the crashing waves adds to its mystical allure. The shrine is believed to hold powers over fertility, safe childbirth and healthy romantic relationships, and visitors can walk down a series of steps carved into the cliffside to reach the shrine, uniquely located inside a cave. Here, they can also participate in a special ritual: throwing small clay balls called “undama” into a target located below the shrine. Successfully landing the undama in the target is said to bring good luck and make your wishes come true.

Obi – PAAK Hotel SAI

Access: a 25-minute ride from Udo Shrine

In the evening, head to the historic castle town of Obi, where you’ll be staying in a traditional Japanese house. This charming town is known for its well-preserved samurai residences, stone walls, and beautiful gardens.

PAAK Hotel SAI, nestled in the heart of a historic district, offers a unique blend of authentic Japanese charm and modern comfort. The house is more than 100 years old and has been beautifully restored to combine the features of traditional wooden architecture, “tatami”-matted rooms, and serene garden views with the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable Western-style beds and a fragrant “hinoki” Japanese cypress bath tub for a relaxing evening soak.

Enjoy a Delicious Jitokko Chicken Dinner at Aya

Access: a 10-minute walk from PAAK Hotel SAI

For dinner, try a local specialty: “jitokko ” chicken, a type of free-range chicken that is raised in the region. Said to be Japan’s tastiest type of chicken meat, the birds are raised longer than conventional chickens and with more space to roam. The meat is very flavorful and used in a wide variety of dishes, from hotpots to tempura. At Aya, specialties include grilled skewers as well as jitokko sashimi, two dishes highly praised by locals and visitors alike.

Day 2: Historic Samurai Town and Coastal Beauty

Obi Castle Town

Access: 12-minute walk from PAAK Hotel SAI

Your second day begins with a unique cultural experience: wearing a kimono as you explore the historic castle town of Obi. PAAK Hotel SAI offers a kimono rental service, allowing you to experience a more immersive way to wander the town’s narrow streets. By making a reservation in advance, an assistant will come to your room at a designated time and help you dress up in this elegant traditional attire.

Dating back to the 15th century, Obi Castle was constructed by the influential Shimazu family of Kagoshima, and the castle has seen many battles and changes in power over the centuries. Today, only ruins and reconstructions are left of the original castle, but the expansive grounds, which are dotted with blooming cherry trees in spring, are one of the highlights of visiting Obi.

The town is also famous for its well-preserved samurai residences, which offer a glimpse into the life of Japan’s warrior class during the Edo period. One such residence is Yoshou-kan, located right outside the castle’s gates, with its meticulously kept gardens being one of its most exquisite features.

Another building not to miss is Matsuo-no-maru, which used to be the feudal lord’s personal living quarters and boasts its own sauna, something very rare and unique at the time it was built.

Taste a Miyazaki’s Specialty, Katsuo Aburi Ju, at Gallery Kodama

Access: a 7-minute walk from Obi Castle

As you soak up Obi’s serene and picturesque atmosphere while admiring its beautiful stone walls and carp-filled waterways, you might find yourself in need of a break to rest your feet and enjoy some people-watching. For this, stop by one of Obi’s charming cafes, many of which are housed in old buildings that have been beautifully restored.

When your stomach tells you it’s time for a proper lunch, Gallery Kodama offers an ideal location less than 10 minutes’ walk from the castle ruins. The restaurant serves up delicious local dishes in a cozy and atmospheric setting with shoji paper doors and tatami-matted floors, and the “Katsuo Aburi Ju” comes highly recommended. A Miyazaki specialty, “Katsuo Aburi Ju” is single-hook-caught bonito, which can be enjoyed in three different ways in the same meal setting: raw as sashimi, grilled over charcoal with rice, and finally with rice steeped in a flavourful soup broth.

Cape Toi and Misaki Shrine

Access: 1-hour drive from Obi

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Cape Toi , a rugged peninsula located on the southernmost tip of Miyazaki. Cape Toi is famous for its wild horses, which roam freely across the grassy hills and offer great photo ops against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs and ocean views. The area is also home to Misaki Shrine, a small but picturesque shrine built into the cliffside overlooking the ocean. The peaceful atmosphere makes Cape Toi a scenic spot for reflection and photography.

Toiglam Solasita

Access: 4-minute car ride from Misaki Shrine

In the evening, check in to Toiglam Solasita, a stylish glamping resort that offers a unique blend of luxury and nature. The resort’s spacious dome tents are equipped with comfortable beds and modern amenities, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Enjoy dinner at your private pergola and indulge in a BBQ featuring Miyazaki beef, one of the region’s most famous culinary specialties. Miyazaki beef is known for its rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a must-try for any food lover.

Day 3: Hidden Gems and Relaxing Onsen

Tonari no Totoro Bus Stop

Access: 2-hour drive from Cape Toi

On your third day, wake up early to enjoy the magnificent sunrise views over the Pacific Ocean. Your first stop today is the Tonari no Totoro Bus Stop[21] , a charming and whimsical attraction inspired by the beloved Studio Ghibli film “My Neighbor Totoro” and made by local residents. Located in the small town of Takaharu, this bus stop is a popular photo spot for fans of the film and offers a fun way to start your day.

Stop for a Chicken Nanban Lunch at Yunomoto Onsen

Access: 2-minute walk from Tonari no Totoro Bus Stop

For lunch, head to nearby Yunomoto Onsen, a traditional Japanese inn and restaurant offering another popular Miyazaki specialty: chicken nanban, a dish of fried chicken topped with a tangy vinegar sauce and creamy tartar sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish is a local favorite and is sure to satisfy your appetite.

Ikoma Plateau

Access: 20-minute ride from Yunomoto Onsen

If time permits, consider stopping at the Ikoma Plateau enroute to your next destination. The flower fields here are famous for their stunning displays of pansies and poppies in spring, salvia in summer, and white and pink cosmos in autumn.

Sugawara Shrine

Access: 30-minute ride from Ikoma Plateau or 40-minute ride from Yunomoto Onsen

Then, make your way to Sugawara Shrine, a beautiful and historic shrine located in a small forest. With its moss-covered statues, the shrine is pretty and peaceful in itself, but what truly makes it stand out is the large vermillion torii gate marking its entrance. Surrounded by rice fields, the color contrast of the impressive gate looks even more striking in autumn just before harvest time in late September.

Kyomachi Kanko Hotel

In the evening, relax at Kyomachi Kanko Hotel, located in the town of Ebino. The hotel offers both Western- and Japanese-style rooms, but its best feature might be its variety of “onsen” hot springs, which includes both indoor and outdoor baths. Soaking in an onsen is the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and the mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties that can soothe tired muscles and promote relaxation.

For dinner, enjoy an authentic Japanese meal at your accommodation. The hotel offers two different menus - a “sukiyaki” course (a dish made by grilling and then boiling ingredients such as thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu in a sauce) and a steak course - both centered around the concept of traditional “kaiseki” multi-course meals that are sure to satisfy both your eyes and your stomach.

Day 4: Sacred Shrines and Scenic Landscapes

Takachiho Gorge

Access: a 2.5-hour drive from Kyomachi Kanko Hotel

On your final day in Miyazaki, begin with a visit to Takachiho Gorge , one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Japan. The gorge was formed when lava, flowing from nearby Mt. Aso during an eruption more than 100,000 years ago, cooled down rapidly when it reached the Gokase River. Today, 100-meter-tall moss-covered basalt cliffs rise above the crystal-clear water below.

A highlight of the gorge is the Manai Waterfall, which cascades gracefully into the river from high above. Visitors can rent rowboats to explore the gorge from the water, offering a close-up view of the interesting cliff formations and the lush greenery that surrounds the area. Walking trails along the gorge also provide stunning vantage points for those who prefer to stay on land.

Takachiho Shrine

After exploring the gorge, head to Takachiho Shrine, a sacred Shinto shrine located in the nearby town of Takachiho. With a history of more than 1,900 years, the shrine is deeply connected to Japanese mythology and is dedicated to the first three mythological generations of the imperial ancestry line. On the shrine’s grounds stand the so-called “married cedars”, two trees joined by the roots. It is said that those who circle the trees three times hand in hand with someone they love, will receive luck and prosperity in their relationship.

Lettuce Maki and Cheese Manju - Feast On Local Treats at Take-sushi and Kashi Kobo Sorairo

Access: a 10-minute walk from Takachiho Shrine

A 10-minute walk from Takachiho Shrine you will find Take-sushi, a small but welcoming restaurant specializing in sushi and sashimi. Here, you can enjoy a colorful plate of assorted sashimi as well as the restaurant’s refreshing take on maki rolls with lettuce, a Miyazaki specialty. Later, when it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth as well, stopping by Kashi Kobo Sorairo to bite into one of their tasty cheese “manju” buns or lemon cakes, is highly recommended.

Amano Iwato Shrine

Access: a 12-minute ride from Take-sushi

Next, visit Amano Iwato Shrine , a sacred site that holds a special place in Japanese mythology. According to legend, the sun goddess Amaterasu, angered by her brother’s mischief, retreated into a cave near the current shrine, plunging the world into darkness. Desperate to restore light to the world, the other gods gathered and tried to lure her out of her hiding. Finally, when a female deity performed a dance holding tree branches to much amusement and delight of the gathered gods, Amaterasu was drawn out of the cave by their joyful noise and celebrations.

Together, the awe-inspiring Takachiho Gorge and the spiritual history of the town’s shrines create a magical experience, connecting visitors with both the natural beauty and deep cultural heritage of Japan.

Miyazaki Itinerary – Explore Coastal Wonders and Japanese Mythology

A roadtrip through Miyazaki Prefecture offers a captivating blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights. From the coastal wonders of Aoshima and Udo Shrine to the historic charm of Obi and the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Toi and Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki is a destination that rewards travelers with its diverse attractions. Deeply entangled in Japanese mythology, the prefecture offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japan. Plan your trip, rent a car, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of one of Japan’s most enchanting regions!