Miyazaki Prefecture is located on the southeastern tip of Kyushu, facing the vast Pacific Ocean. With its combination of mountains and sea, the region boasts a variety of landscapes and a distinctly subtropical atmosphere. Its capital, Miyazaki City, is known as Kyushu’s “Sunshine City,” attracting visitors with its warm climate and laid-back charm. The prefecture enjoys long hours of sunshine, mild winters, and little rain during the colder months, earning it the nickname “Land of the Sun.” Even in winter, snow is rarely seen along the coast, making it a popular destination for sports teams to conduct off-season training. Every year, professional baseball and soccer teams hold their spring training in Miyazaki.
In the 1960s, Miyazaki enjoyed a reputation as Japan’s “honeymoon paradise,” symbolizing an exotic, dreamlike escape for newlyweds. Palm-lined roads, blue skies, and the sea created a romantic ambiance. Although the boom subsided with the rise of Okinawa, recent efforts integrating sports tourism, nature exploration, and cultural experiences have revitalized Miyazaki, once again attracting visitors, particularly from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and South Korea.
One of Miyazaki’s most famous attractions is Takachiho Gorge, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and mythological associations. According to legend, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu descended here to begin the human realm. The gorge, formed by cooled lava from Mount Aso, features steep basalt cliffs and the spectacular Manai Falls. Visitors can row boats through the gorge, experiencing a mystical blend of nature and myth.
The Nichinan Coast showcases a tropical resort atmosphere, with rows of palm trees along the shore. Aoshima Shrine sits on a small offshore island surrounded by the unique rock formation known as “Ogre’s Washboard,” named for its resemblance to a giant washboard. This romantic site is a favorite for couples. Nearby, Udo Shrine, built inside a sea cave, contrasts its bright vermilion buildings with the deep blue ocean. Visitors can also try a ritual of tossing clay tiles onto “Turtle Rock” for good fortune.
For history and archaeology enthusiasts, the Saitobaru Burial Mounds offer a glimpse into ancient Japan. With over 300 burial mounds, it is one of the largest tumulus clusters in the country. In spring, fields of rapeseed blossoms and cherry blossoms bloom simultaneously, creating a picturesque landscape over the ancient tombs.
Miyazaki’s natural beauty is equally impressive. The Ebino Highlands in the Kirishima mountain range provide a cool summer retreat and even host Japan’s southernmost ski resort in winter. Along the Hyūga Sea, the frost-free coastal areas support agriculture year-round. Further south, Cape Toi offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to Japan’s only herd of wild Misaki horses, which roam freely across the grasslands.
Although Miyazaki is not as famous for hot springs as its neighbors Ōita, Kumamoto, or Kagoshima, it distinguishes itself with sunshine, sports, mythology, and natural beauty—making it a unique and charming destination.
