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Miyazaki

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Miyazaki

Miyazaki Prefecture, situated on Kyushu island, Japan, encompasses nine cities, with Miyazaki as the capital drawing Japanese tourists for its numerous recreational centers. Renowned as "Hyuga no Kuni" or the "country that faces the sun," Miyazaki's strategic location allows breathtaking sunrise views. 

The prefecture has a coastal landscape adorned with golden beaches and impressive rock formations along the Nichinan Coast, a favored destination for its temperate climate and excellent water conditions. Rich in cultural significance, Miyazaki is considered a sacred place, with ancient legends narrated through Kagura dance. 

Aoshima Island, featuring captivating ogres/devils washboard rock formations, offers a beautiful ocean view, while dense forests, dramatic gorges, and secluded mountain villages transport visitors to storied times. 

Explore Miyazaki's vibrant local markets and savor its diverse culinary offerings, from succulent Miyazaki beef to regional specialties like Chicken Nanban, a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of this enchanting prefecture. Whether you're exploring historic shrines, unwind in hot springs, or simply enjoying the serene landscapes, Miyazaki offers a variety of experiences that reflects the heart and soul of Japan's southwestern gem.

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Popular Areas in Miyazaki

Travel Tips for Miyazaki

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Miyazaki

A guide to Miyazaki's local transportation

Bus
Bicycle
Walking

Navigating Miyazaki Prefecture by bus provides a convenient and efficient means of transportation. The extensive bus network covers key destinations, offering travelers the flexibility to explore the region's diverse attractions. The bus fare varies depending on the distance traveled. The operating hours also vary depending on the route. However, in general, buses run from early morning until late at night.


Practical Tips for Miyazaki

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What is Miyazaki Japan known for?

Miyazaki Prefecture is known as the birthplace of Japan due to its abundance of historical sites tied to Japanese history and mythology, making it a region steeped in a rich cultural legacy.

Miyazaki is also renowned for its abundant sunshine and picturesque ocean views. Aoshima, a prominent tourist destination in Miyazaki City, stands out as a popular attraction. Beyond its historical and coastal allure, Miyazaki Prefecture is celebrated for its numerous beautiful natural areas, providing ideal settings for activities like hiking or leisurely walks.

What to do in Miyazaki Prefecture?

Discover the diverse wonders of Miyazaki Prefecture through a captivating journey across the scenic Nichinan Coast, stretching over 100 km. This coastline is adorned with various attractions, from the sacred Udo-Jingu Shrine and Aoshima Island to sandy beaches and distinctive rock formations.

Other key attractions on Nichinan Coast include an Easter Island-themed park with replicas of the iconic Moai Statues and Sun Messe Nichinan, which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a quiet retreat.

You can also visit the Eda Shrine, a healing spot enshrining the gods Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto since the 10th century, or delve into history at the Saitobaru Archaeological Museum, the Saitobaru Ancient Life Experience Museum, and the meticulously restored Oninoiwaya burial mound.

For aquatic adventures, Sakaematsu Beach is a must-visit with its pristine white sand shores and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. Immerse yourself in the transparent depths, home to a variety of tropical marine creatures, ensuring an unforgettable experience in Miyazaki Prefecture.

When to visit Miyazaki Prefecture?

Miyazaki stands out as one of the warmest locations on Japan's main island. Thus, you may enjoy a consistently warm and temperate climate throughout most months of the year.

The best time to visit Miyazaki Prefecture is in July, August, and September. During this period, the region experiences average daily temperatures of 31 degrees Celcius with minimal rainfall, creating an ideal environment to enjoy Miyazaki's diverse natural attractions and beautiful beaches.

However, you might avoid December as it marks the coldest period, with average daily temperatures around 15 degrees Celcius, yet it also stands as the driest month. Conversely, June experiences the highest rainfall, averaging about 630 mm in a month.

What to eat in Miyazaki Prefecture?

Enjoying the culinary delights of Miyazaki Prefecture is a flavorful journey through its renowned dishes. Savor the local favorite, Chicken Nanban, a delectable dish featuring succulent fried chicken topped with a savory sweet-and-sour sauce. For an authentic taste of Miyazaki's grilling expertise, Charcoal Grilled Chicken is a must-try.

To refresh your palate, delve into the traditional Miyazaki food known as Hiyajiru, a cold soup offering a unique blend of flavors. Meanwhile, the Nichinan Coast provides the perfect backdrop for savoring Ise ebi lobster, a delicacy caught fresh from the surrounding pristine waters.

It is also highly recommended to try Miyazaki Beef, known for its exceptional quality and rich marbling, often prepared as succulent steaks, yakiniku (grilled meat), or in traditional Japanese hot pot dishes like sukiyaki or shabu-shabu.

What to buy in Miyazaki Prefecture?

What travelers must do, of course, is to buy souvenirs. Thus, you can buy the renowned smoked chicken, a local delicacy that is known for its premium quality. Rest assured, the smoked chicken is thoughtfully vacuum-packed, ensuring its freshness and flavor. For those of you who like sweet treats, bring home the tasty Mango Langue-De-Chat and Cheese Manjyuu, delectable treats that capture the essence of the region's sweetness.

Last but not least, enhance your home décor with Miyazaki Shikki, also known as Lacquerware, a traditional craft that reflects the region's artistic prowess. Each piece of lacquerware is a testament to Miyazaki's rich cultural heritage and meticulous craftsmanship.

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