Things to do in Takachiho

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Miyazaki Prefecture

Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge is a V-shaped gorge formed by the cooling and solidification of pyroclastic flows from the eruption of Mount Aso, followed by long-term erosion by the Gokase River. The banks are lined with steep cliffs approx. 80–100m high, where columnar joints are clearly visible. The emerald green river water and gray rock layers contrast with each other, creating a striking natural view. Manai Falls, located within the gorge, is approx. 17m high and is a representative view. Visitors can take a rowboat to enjoy the waterfall and cliffs up close from the water, or stroll along the approx. 1 km long trail to view the gorge scenery from different angles. There are viewing spots along the trail, including the Takachiho Three Bridges, where you can see the three arch bridges against the backdrop of the gorge. The Takachiho area has deep ties to Japanese mythology, and the rocks and waterfalls in the gorge are also associated with related legends. In spring and summer, the banks are lush with greenery; in the fall, the red leaves reflect on the emerald water, presenting different seasonal scenery. Boat tours are popular, so it is recommended to plan your time in advance if visiting during holidays.

Amanoyasukawara

Amanoyasukawara is an attraction not far from Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, West Main Shrine. In the past, only Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, West Main Shrine was considered an object of worship. Later, however, a custom spread among those praying to stack stones here. That is why you can see stones stacked everywhere when you walk here. These are known as stone piles. It is said that if you make a wish while stacking stones, it will come true. However, please be careful not to knock over other stone piles nearby.

Takachiho Shrine

Takachiho Shrine is an ancient shrine with a history of 1,800 years and is also the head office of the Eighty-eight Shrines of Takachiho Township. The main deities of this shrine are Takachiho Emperor God and Ten Shrine Daimyo God. Emperor Takachiho is the general term for the three generations of Hinata and his consort, and the Tensha Daimyo deity enshrines the ten pillars of gods such as Sanmao Nomiko. Therefore, this shrine is especially effective in agriculture, elimination of misfortune, and marriage. In addition, the pair of iron lion dogs in the main hall of the shrine are important cultural relics under the protection of Japan.

Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, West Main Shrine

Located in Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture, Amaniwado Shrine has a story called "The Legend of Amaniwado". According to legend, Amaterasu, who symbolizes the sun, was so enraged by his younger brother's actions that he hid in a cave and could not come out, and the world became dark as a result. The gods met on the beach outside the Tianyan Cave, and the beautiful girls danced to amuse the gods. The sound of laughter spread into the cave, so that the God of Amaterasu couldn't help but open the door of the cave and stick his head out. . As a result, the gods had arranged for the Hercules outside the door for a day to make a decisive decision and pull out the Great God of Amaterasu. Since then, the earth has regained its light. Amano-Iwato Shrine was built near the cave where the legendary god Amaterasu hid, and the main hall of the shrine was built in the cave opposite the Iwado River. There is a solemn and sacred atmosphere everywhere in Amaniwato Shrine. People who come to worship here will pile up stone pagodas on the ground to pray. The mysterious atmosphere is very worth punching

Amaterasu Railway

No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Kumamoto Prefecture

Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine

Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine is located deep in the forests of the Aso caldera's outer rim. It is said to have been founded between the late Kamakura period and the Muromachi period. It is generally believed to have been formed by the fusion of ancient rock worship centered on the giant "Uto-iwa" rock and the Kumano faith introduced by mountain ascetics. The animated film "Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light," created by Kumamoto-born manga artist Yuki Midorikawa, used this place as a setting, bringing a large number of fans to the shrine who specifically came to visit the story's scenes. Passing through the torii gate at the entrance, a long stone-stepped approach extends upward through the forest. Nearly 100 moss-covered stone lanterns line both sides. Sunlight filters through the branches into this mossy green world, creating dappled light and shadows, making it a very popular spot for photography. After walking along the approach to the shrine building, climbing another steeper slope leads to the giant wind hole "Uto-iwa" behind the shrine, which is said to have been kicked open by the legendary Kihachi-hoshi. It measures over 10 m in height and width, and many visitors come here specifically to pray for success in exams and victory in their pursuits.

Kunimigaoka Observation Deck

Aratate Shrine

This is a historic shrine located in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture. The shrine is surrounded by towering mountains, offering spectacular views. Visitors can experience the rich mountain atmosphere and mysterious ambiance here.

Roadside station Seiunbashi

Kushifuru Shrine

Kushifuru Shrine has a historic corridor, and the walls of the main hall feature beautiful sculptures.