Destinations

Miyazaki

“It may be a cliché to call Japan a land of contrasts. But here again a great day can be started with an afternoon in the mysterious and tranquil island shrine of Aoshima followed by a night of excess in Miyazaki’s bright and bustling downtown.”

Liam Chawdhary - Tour Leader

Miyazaki enjoys lovely weather and the abundance of palm tress gives the town a resort atmosphere. But Miyazaki’s laidback atmosphere belies its importance. It is home, not only, to the gods that created Japan, but to the television god (and now governor of Miyazaki), Hideo Higashikokubaru. A former entertainer whose face is plastered all over the city (and to all Takeshi Castle fans, if his face rings a bell it may be because he was leader of the Emerald Guard).

One of the most important attractions is Miyazaki shrine (Miyazaki Jingu): dedicated to Japan’s first emperor who has become something of a mythical figure but is believed to be the ancestor of every reigning emperor since. The shrine itself has a striking simplicity and is surrounded by a natural wood of cedar and wisteria trees.

A short train ride to the south lies Aoshima. Head to the beach and walk among the palm trees until you reach a land bridge flanked by the Devil’s Washboard (curious rock formations formed by the action of years of crashing waves). The bridge will lead to an island shrine where you will catch local couples in prayer: the Gods here offer fertility to the faithful.

Once the sun has set and the shrines are all but deserted, Miyazaki turns its attention to entertaining the revellers. Be sure to try the local speciality grilled chicken, best washed down with few cold beers.

Products featuring Miyazaki...

Small Group Tour

Japanese Food & Cookery

Explore Japan and learn to cook Japanese food with Masterchef 2011 winner Tim Anderson and our food-loving tour leader and Japan expert Liam Chawdhary.

13 Nights: £4900

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