Landmarks in Miyazaki Prefecture

Miyazaki Highlights

Miyazaki’s landscape is defined by the volcanic peaks of Takachiho and the rugged Nichinan Coast. This selection features the authorized Moai replicas of Sun Messe Nichinan and the natural basalt ridges of the Devil's Washboard. Historical sites include the 18th-century Tsurutomi Yashiki and the Shimazu family estate in Miyakonojo. For spiritual landmarks, the list covers the ancient spear atop Mount Takachiho-no-mine and the secluded Namikiri Shrine, located within a natural sea cave.

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Sun Messe Nichinan

Features seven Moai statues, the only authorized replicas of the Easter Island monuments. The site overlooks the Pacific Ocean and includes a small museum and petting zoo.

Tsurutomi Yashiki

An 18th-century residence in Shiba Village associated with the legend of the Heike clan and the Minamoto warrior Nasu no Yoichi. It is a designated Important Cultural Property.

Takachiho Bridge

A viewing point overlooking the Takachiho Gorge where three distinct bridges from the Taisho, Showa, and Heisei eras are visible simultaneously across the ravine.

Devil's Washboard

A geological formation of perfectly straight basalt ridges created by seven million years of wave erosion. These natural steps surround the perimeter of Aoshima Island.

Amenosakahoko

An ancient iron spear protruding from the summit of Mount Takachiho-no-mine. According to Shinto mythology, it was placed there by the gods during the creation of Japan.

Horikiri Pass

A mountain pass 60 meters above sea level offering panoramic views of the Nichinan coastline and the rippling rock formations of the Devil's Washboard.

Michi no eki Phoenix

A roadside rest area on the Nichinan Coast known for its viewing deck and local Miyazaki specialties like hyuganatsu citrus and ashiebi shrimp soft-serve ice cream.

Ikoma Kogen Flower Station

A 550-meter-high plateau famous for seasonal floral displays, specifically a million cosmos in autumn and California poppies in spring, set against the Kirishima mountains.

Namikiri shrine

A secluded Shinto shrine situated inside a natural sea cave on the Nichinan coast, historically used by mariners to pray for safety and protection at sea.

都城島津邸

The former residence of the Miyakonojo Shimazu family. The site includes a museum housing clan artifacts, a Meiji-era main house, and a traditional Japanese landscape garden.