10 Must-Do Activities In Miyazaki For A Perfect Travel Experience

Take a trip to Miyazaki, Japan, and be prepared for a perfect travel experience like no other. Nestled in the southern part of Japan's Kyushu Island, Miyazaki boasts of lush green forests, unmatched natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. However, with so many activities to do, it can be overwhelming for travelers to choose what to do with their time while in Miyazaki. Fear not, we have you covered with ten must-do activities guaranteed to make your stay in Miyazaki unforgettable. Read on to discover the beauty and adventure Miyazaki has to offer.

Visit Aoshima Island

If you are a fan of Hayao Miyazaki and his enchanting animated movies, then a visit to Aoshima Island in Japan is the perfect destination for you.

Aoshima Island is located in Miyazaki Prefecture, which is itself a picturesque region in southern Japan famously known for its sun-kissed beaches and green hills.

Aoshima Island is a small islet located off the coast of the city of Nichinan and is only accessible by a short ferry ride. The island is famous for its dense population of cats, earning it the widely-used nickname of "cat island".

As soon as you step foot on the island, you will be greeted by numerous furry, four-legged creatures, lazing around under the sun or wandering about their daily work. The cats are known to be friendly, and many of them are unafraid of approaching tourists for a quick cuddle.

In addition to cat-watching, you can also take a stroll along the island's coastline and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. You can also visit the Aoshima Shrine, which was built in the 9th century and is dedicated to the god of the sea and fishing.

As you walk around the island, you will quickly notice the similarities between the island's landscape and the scenery that is often depicted in Hayao Miyazaki's movies. The lush greenery, stunning ocean views, and playful felines all come together to create a magical atmosphere that seems straight out of one of his movie scenes.

If you are a true fan of Miyazaki, you will recognize the deep reverence he has for nature and the environment, which is why Aoshima Island is the perfect destination to get a sense of his inspirations and motifs. A visit to this beautiful island will leave a lasting impact on your heart and soul, and you will surely cherish the memories for years to come.

Explore the beautiful Udo Shrine

Nestled among the lush greenery of Miyazaki, Japan, lies the beautiful Udo Shrine. This popular tourist spot is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and tradition. With its stunning natural surroundings and intriguing history, the shrine provides a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

The Udo Shrine is located on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The shrine's main feature is the Udo Cave, which is said to be the spot where the Japanese sun goddess, Amaterasu, hid from her brother, the god of storms. Visitors can explore the cave and witness the natural water droplets falling from above, believed to have healing properties.

The shrine also has several beautiful walking trails that lead through the lush forest surrounding the area. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a more challenging hike to the summit of the mountain. The trek is well worth it, for the panoramic views at the peak offer a stunning vista of the surrounding coastline.

Another must-see attraction at the Udo Shrine is the Omikuji Fortune Telling. Visitors can draw a slip of paper that predicts their fortunes for the year ahead. Those who receive a negative fortune can tie the paper to a nearby tree, leaving their bad luck behind.

The Udo Shrine hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Udo Festival in February, which celebrates the arrival of spring. The festival is marked by traditional performances, including taiko drumming and geisha dances, and the shrine is decorated with beautiful lanterns and cherry blossoms.

Whether you're a history buff or nature lover, the Udo Shrine offers something special for everyone. It's a great place to relax, reflect, and appreciate the beautiful surroundings of Miyazaki. You can't leave without taking a deep breath of the fresh ocean breeze and appreciating the stunning surroundings.

Take a dip in the famous Aoshima natural hot springs

Miyazaki, located on Japan's southern island of Kyushu, is a stunning coastal prefecture with beautiful beaches and scenic views. Known for its lush greenery and subtropical climate, Miyazaki is also famous for its natural hot springs, especially the Aoshima natural hot springs.

Located in the town of Aoshima, the hot springs are nestled among rocks and the sea, providing a beautiful and serene atmosphere for a relaxing dip. The water in the hot springs comes from a natural spring that is heated by volcanic activity and contains minerals such as hydrogen sulfide, sodium chloride, and iron.

The Aoshima hot spring waters are said to have many healing properties and are said to be beneficial for various ailments such as arthritis and eczema. The water also helps to relax muscles and improve blood circulation, leaving you feeling rejuvenated after your dip.

One of the unique features of these hot springs is their location. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful view of the sea while relaxing in the warm water. The area around the hot springs is also popular for its natural beauty, with rocky shorelines and serene nature spots attracting many visitors.

Apart from the hot springs, Aoshima is also famous for its shrine, the Aoshima Jinja, which sits on a small island. The shrine is dedicated to the gods of the sea and is known for its striking Torii gate that stands in the water.

To enjoy the hot springs and the beautiful surroundings, many people opt to stay in one of the nearby hot spring resorts. The resorts offer private hot spring baths, and some even have ocean views, allowing guests to experience the best of both worlds.

In conclusion, Miyazaki's Aoshima hot springs are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hot springs and wants to experience the beauty of Japan's southern coast. The waters are warm and relaxing, and the scenery is breathtaking. Whether you choose to stay at a resort or visit for a day trip, the Aoshima natural hot springs are an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

Enjoy the scenic views at Phoenix Seagaia Resort

If you are a fan of the magnificent natural landscapes that Japan has to offer, then a visit to the Phoenix Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki is a must. Located in southwestern Japan, Miyazaki is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, which includes pristine beaches, rolling hills, and dense forests. The Phoenix Seagaia Resort is one of the best places to experience the natural beauty of Miyazaki, and with its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and lush surroundings, it is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind and relax.

The resort is situated on the southeastern coast of Miyazaki, and it boasts of an impressive 1,300 guest rooms spread across multiple buildings. Each room is tastefully decorated, with comfortable furnishings that will make you feel right at home. However, the real draw of the Phoenix Seagaia Resort is its beautiful surroundings, which you can enjoy from the comfort of your room balcony or one of the many outdoor terraces.

One of the main attractions of the resort is its close proximity to the ocean. The resort has a private beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or take long walks along the shore. You can also enjoy a variety of water activities, including kayaking and snorkeling, or simply relax and watch the waves crash on the shore.

Apart from the beach, the resort also boasts of beautiful gardens and lush greenery. The resort is surrounded by tropical forests, and there are numerous walking trails that you can take to explore the area. Along the trails, you will come across stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills, making for an unforgettable experience.

If you are looking for a relaxing holiday, the Phoenix Seagaia Resort has plenty of amenities to help you unwind. The resort has several on-site restaurants, bars, and cafes, serving a variety of cuisines for all tastes. It also has a spa where you can indulge in luxurious treatments and massages designed to soothe your mind and body.

Overall, the Phoenix Seagaia Resort in Miyazaki is a haven of natural beauty and tranquility that is sure to awe and inspire you. Whether you are looking to relax, enjoy some water activities, or explore the stunning surroundings, this resort is the perfect destination for your next getaway. So pack your bags and head to Miyazaki to enjoy some of Japan's most breathtaking scenery at the Phoenix Seagaia Resort.

Get up close with animals at Miyazaki Animal World

Miyazaki Animal World, located in the Miyazaki prefecture of Japan, is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. The park is spread across a vast area of around 500 acres of lush greenery, where visitors can wander around freely alongside various animals in their natural habitats. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, giraffes, monkeys, and more.

One of the main attractions of Miyazaki Animal World is the unique opportunity it provides to visitors to get up close and personal with the animals. Unlike most other animal parks, where visitors are restricted to observing animals behind fences, visitors here can experience the thrill of interacting with them in a much more intimate way. You can even feed some of the animals, such as the park's friendly giraffes.

There are daily shows scheduled throughout the park, where visitors can experience the amazing talents of well-trained animals. The "Lion's Show" and "Birds of Prey Show" are particularly noteworthy. They showcase an impressive display of lions, tigers, and birds of prey, showcasing their agility and intelligence.

The highlight of the park is the "Safari Zone," which is a massive plot of land that visitors can explore in a safari-style vehicle. It is home to many animals that roam freely in their natural environment. Visitors can watch the animals grazing, playing, and even hunt (safely from the comfort of their vehicle, of course). This is a unique and unforgettable experience for all nature lovers.

There is also a petting zoo section where visitors can touch and interact with smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and even capybaras. Visitors can also participate in other activities, such as horse riding, pony rides, and elephant rides. Many visitors enjoy staying at the park's campsite or lodges and taking in the experience over a few days.

However, to ensure the safety of the animals and visitors, strict rules are in place, and visitors must comply with them. Visitors must not feed or touch animals outside of controlled areas and must follow the instructions of the park's staff at all times.

In conclusion, Miyazaki Animal World is a unique animal park that provides visitors with an unforgettable experience. With opportunities to interact with animals in their natural habitats and participate in animal-related activities, visitors can experience a fun and calming atmosphere that relaxes the mind and body while allowing people to interact with the natural world.

Try Miyazaki beef at a local restaurant

Miyazaki beef is considered to be one of the top quality beef in Japan. It is famous for its tender, juicy texture and marbling, which makes it one of the most sought-after beef in the world. It comes from a specific breed of cow called the Japanese Black. These cows are raised and nurtured with utmost care and attention.

If you are in Miyazaki, you should definitely try Miyazaki beef at a local restaurant. There are many restaurants that serve this high-quality beef, so you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to try Miyazaki beef:

• Miyazaki Jidori Yakitori Kirishima: This restaurant is known for its skewered Miyazaki Jidori chicken, but they also serve Miyazaki beef. You can enjoy the beef in various forms, including skewers and steak.
• Miyazaki Gyu Shokudo: This restaurant is located in the heart of Miyazaki city and serves some of the best Miyazaki beef in town. They offer a variety of beef dishes, including yakiniku (grilled meat) and sukiyaki (hot pot).
• Yumezen: This restaurant is located in Aya town and is known for its organic beef, which is raised without any chemicals or hormones. The beef is cooked over a charcoal fire, which gives it a delicious smoky flavor.
• Steak House Satoh: This restaurant is located in Miyakonojo city and offers a premium dining experience. They serve only the best Miyazaki beef, which is cooked to perfection. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
• Yajima Farm: If you want to try Miyazaki beef straight from the source, you can visit Yajima Farm. It is a beef cattle farm that offers farm-to-table dining experiences. You can enjoy the beef in a traditional Japanese setting, surrounded by rice fields and mountains.

In conclusion, if you are in Miyazaki, you should definitely try Miyazaki beef at a local restaurant. The beef is of exceptional quality, and there are many restaurants that serve it in different styles, so you have plenty of options to choose from. From skewers to steak to organic beef, you can experience the best of Miyazaki's culinary delights.

Wander around the ancient Takachiho Gorge

Miyazaki is a beautiful prefecture located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu Island in Japan. This scenic spot is known for its lush subtropical climate and stunning natural beauty, which makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the most popular places to visit in Miyazaki is the Takachiho Gorge, which offers a truly unique experience for travelers who want to explore the wonders of Japan.

The Takachiho Gorge is an ancient geological formation that has been carved over time by the Gokase River. It is a truly breathtaking sight to behold, with towering cliffs of volcanic basalt and crystal-clear waters that flow through the gorge. Visitors can wander along the scenic walking paths, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are also several lookout points that offer panoramic views of the gorge and its surroundings.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Takachiho Gorge is also steeped in mythology and folklore. According to legend, the gorge was created by the gods themselves, who used their divine powers to carve the landscape. It is said that the sun goddess Amaterasu once hid in a nearby cave, plunging the world into darkness until she was lured out by the dancing of the goddess of mirth, Ame-no-Uzume. This event is said to have inspired the traditional Japanese Kagura dance, which is still performed today in the Takachiho Shrine.

Visitors can also take a boat tour of the Takachiho Gorge, which offers a unique perspective of the landscape. The boats are rowed by local fishermen, who use traditional bamboo poles to navigate the shallow waters of the river. The tour takes visitors through several tunnels and past stunning waterfalls, including the 17-meter Manai Falls, which drops into the river with a thunderous roar.

The Takachiho Gorge is located in the southern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, and it is easily accessible by car or public transportation. It is open year-round, and the best time to visit is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most colorful. While there are plenty of other attractions in Miyazaki, the Takachiho Gorge is a must-see for anyone visiting the prefecture. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for an adventure, the Takachiho Gorge is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Miyazaki.

Take a relaxing stroll around Shiibae Park

Miyazaki, a beautiful city located in Kyushu island, Japan, is known for its soothing climate and scenic beauty. The city boasts numerous attractions that attract travelers from all over the world. One such attraction that you shouldn't miss out on is a visit to the Shiibae Park.

Shiibae Park is located in the heart of Miyazaki city and is considered to be one of the oldest parks in the region. It spreads across 25 hectares and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind. The park was opened to the public in 1934 and was designed by the renowned landscape designer, Tatsunosuke Takasaki.

The park has a beautiful walking trail, which is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll. The path is lined with over 3,000 trees, including camphor, pine, and cherry blossom, providing visitors with a delightful view throughout the year. You can savor the beauty of the park during different seasons, such as autumn leaves, cherry blossoms in spring, and colorful foliage in winter.

Apart from the walking trail, Shiibae Park also has a children's playground where kids can have a wonderful time. There is also a small zoo with various animals such as deer, raccoons, rabbits, and peacocks. A garden with a water fountain is another highlight of the park. It provides excellent views during cherry blossom season, with the petals falling into the water and making it a truly mesmerizing sight.

The park also features various sculptures and monuments, each with its own story. One such unique monument is the "Tower of Water" inspired by the Miyazaki City Waterworks that has been supplying water to the city since 1898.

Throughout the year, the park hosts various events and festivals. One of the biggest festivals held here is the "Miyazaki Gion Matsuri," which celebrates the city's history and culture. It is a prominent event with traditional music, dance performances, and many stalls selling local delicacies.

Overall, Shiibae Park is a must-visit destination in Miyazaki that offers a relaxing atmosphere with scenic beauty. It is a perfect place to unwind and soak in the lush greenery. With its numerous attractions, events, and festivals, you will love every moment spent at this beautiful park.

Learn about local history at Miyazaki City Museum

For those who are looking to discover the rich history of Miyazaki, Japan, the Miyazaki City Museum is definitely a must-visit destination. The museum is located in the heart of the city and offers fascinating insight into the local culture and history.

Established in 1951, the Miyazaki City Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural and historical heritage of the city and the surrounding region. The museum features a wide variety of exhibits, including artifacts, photographs, and artwork, that showcase the many different aspects of Miyazaki's history and culture.

One of the most exciting things about the Miyazaki City Museum is that it offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. For example, there are exhibits displaying Jomon period (14,000 BCE to 300 BCE) pottery and haniwa clay figurines from the Kofun period (300 to 710 CE). Visitors can also see some of the unique cultural artifacts from the Heian period (794 to 1185 CE).

The museum also features a comprehensive exhibit on the legend of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, which is a central fixture in the region's mythology. Visitors can learn about the role of Amaterasu in Miyazaki's history and its significance in Japanese cultural traditions.

For those interested in more recent history, the museum has exhibits on the development of Miyazaki City and the surrounding area in the Meiji period (1868 to 1912) and beyond. There are displays featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that document the growth of Miyazaki's thriving agriculture, commerce, and transportation industries.

The Miyazaki City Museum is also known for its extensive collection of artwork by regional artists. Exhibits showcase traditional crafts, such as lacquerware and textiles, as well as modern art and sculpture from prominent local artists.

Overall, the Miyazaki City Museum provides a fascinating and informative glimpse into the multifaceted history and cultures of Miyazaki. It is a worthwhile destination for anyone looking to explore the rich heritage of the region and gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable history and traditions of this unique area of Japan.

Experience traditional Japanese culture at Takachiho Shrine

If you are planning a trip to Japan and want to experience traditional Japanese culture, then Takachiho Shrine should be on your must-visit list. The shrine is located in the town of Takachiho, in the Miyazaki prefecture of Japan, and is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in the country.

Takachiho Shrine is dedicated to the Japanese goddess of the sun, Amaterasu, and is believed to have been established over 1,900 years ago. The shrine is built on the edge of a 100-meter-high cliff, overlooking the Gokase River below, and is surrounded by lush greenery and ancient trees.

One of the most unique features of Takachiho Shrine is the Kagura dance performance that takes place there. Kagura is a form of Japanese dance that originated from ancient Shinto rituals, and is performed by shrine maidens in traditional costumes. The dance is said to have been performed at Takachiho Shrine for over 1,000 years and was originally used to appease the gods and pray for good harvests and prosperity.

The Kagura dance performance at Takachiho Shrine is a must-see for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture. The dance is performed in a special hall within the shrine grounds and is accompanied by traditional music and chanting. The performance tells the story of Japanese mythology, with the dancers portraying various gods and spirits.

In addition to the Kagura dance performance, there are several other things to see and do at Takachiho Shrine. Visitors can take part in a guided tour of the shrine, learn about the history and significance of the Kagura dance, and explore the beautiful gardens and surrounding forests.

Overall, a visit to Takachiho Shrine is a must for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture and history. The shrine offers a unique insight into the country's ancient customs, and the Kagura dance performance is an unforgettable experience. If you're planning a trip to Japan, make sure to add Takachiho Shrine to your itinerary.

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