Takachiho Gorge
Sacred volcanic gorge with waterfalls and rowing boats, birthplace of Japanese mythology
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About Miyazaki
Miyazaki Prefecture occupies the southeastern corner of Kyushu and enjoys more sunshine hours per year than almost any other prefecture in Japan. The region is rooted in Japanese creation mythology — Takachiho Gorge, where the sun goddess Amaterasu is said to have hidden in a cave, sits inland, while the rugged Nichinan Coast is dotted with ancient cave shrines and wild horse headlands. Miyazaki City itself is a relaxed, modern capital with excellent beaches, world-class surfing at Kisakibaru, and the famous Seagaia Resort. The prefecture is equally known for its premium wagyu beef, the invented-here chicken nanban dish, and subtropical fruit orchards producing Japan's finest mangoes.
- Capital
- Miyazaki City
- Largest city
- Miyazaki City
- Population
- 1.07 million
- Languages
- Japanese
- Currency
- Japanese Yen
- Time zone
- JST (UTC+9)
Explore Miyazaki by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Miyazaki
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Aoshima Shrine
Ancient Shinto shrine on a tiny island encircled by 'devil's washboard' wave-cut rock formations
Udo Jingu Shrine
Cave shrine carved into a sea cliff on the Nichinan Coast, dedicated to Emperor Jimmu's father
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Miyazaki Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Miyazaki, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Miyazaki
- Days 1-2Miyazaki city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Miyazaki
- Days 1-3Miyazaki comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Miyazaki, departure
Where to stay in Miyazaki
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $60-90
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $130-200
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $350-600+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort
Check rates on Booking.comANA Holiday Inn Resort Miyazaki
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Route Inn Miyazaki
Check rates on Booking.comDormy Inn Miyazaki
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Miyazaki
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Ogura Honten
Miyachiku Honten
Yume Hanabi
Kakurega Kaji
Tochigin
Hamayu
Getting around Miyazaki
Miyazaki is best explored by rental car, as many top attractions (Takachiho, Nichinan Coast, Cape Toi) are not well served by public transport. Miyazaki City itself has buses and some trains.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in JPY, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25-45 | $80-130 | $250-450 |
| Food (per day) | $15-25 | $35-60 | $80-120 |
| Transportation | $10-15 | $15-25 | $40-60 |
| Activities | $5-10 | $20-35 | $50-100 |
| Daily total | $60-90 | $130-200 | $350-600+ |
Best time to visit Miyazaki
Miyazaki has Japan's most sunshine but also typhoon exposure in late summer. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather, crowds, and price.
Essential travel tips
- Rent a car at the airport for maximum flexibility; an international driving permit is required
- Get a Suica or Nimoca IC card for local bus travel in Miyazaki City
- Book the Takachiho rowing experience early; boats sell out by 8AM on peak days
- Miyazaki mango season peaks in June-August; try directly at farm stands on the Nichinan Coast
Safety information
Check typhoon warnings on the Japan Meteorological Agency app (jma.go.jp) during July-October
Apply high-SPF sunscreen on beaches; UV index is very high from April-October
Carry cash as many rural restaurants and shrines are cash-only
Wear shoes with grip when visiting Takachiho Gorge — the paths can be slippery
Frequently asked questions
Is Miyazaki safe to visit in 2026?
Miyazaki is one of Japan's safest prefectures for travelers, with extremely low crime rates. The primary risk is natural: typhoons track through the region from July-October. Emergency services: police at 110, medical at 119.
Do I need a visa to visit Miyazaki?
Entry requirements follow Japan national rules. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for 90 days. Check Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website at mofa.go.jp for current requirements by nationality.
What currency is used in Miyazaki?
The Japanese Yen (JPY). ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) and Japan Post offices accept international cards. Many rural restaurants and shrines are cash-only.
What is the best way to get around Miyazaki?
A rental car is strongly recommended. Most top sights — Takachiho Gorge, Nichinan Coast, Cape Toi, Ebino Kogen — are not efficiently reachable by public transport. An international driving permit is required for foreign license holders.
What are the top attractions in Miyazaki?
Takachiho Gorge (row a boat past the Manai Falls), Aoshima Shrine (island shrine surrounded by wave-cut rock), Udo Jingu Shrine (sea cave shrine on Nichinan Coast), Obi Castle Town (Edo-period samurai district), and Cape Toi with its wild horses.