Discover Miyazaki: Aoshima, Nature and Culture

Aoshima, a park with ancient clay figures, and an almost level path through a valley reveal different sides of Miyazaki. The area also offers coastal experiences, gardens and cultural sites, each inviting visitors to explore at their own pace. Deciding which of these experiences you want to shape your trip can also be a helpful starting point when choosing the location of a holiday rental.

Aoshima: Island, Garden and Shrine

Aoshima is a small island in southeastern Miyazaki City, with a circumference of 1.5 kilometres. The Miyakoh Botanic Garden Aoshima is on its west coast. Its outdoor garden brings together native Aoshima fan palms with Phoenix, royal and date palms, as well as tropical plants such as bougainvillea and hibiscus. The garden’s Palo Borracho Cafe serves smoothies, parfaits and fruit juices made with fully ripened Miyazaki mangoes. The offerings may change, so check what is currently available before your visit.

Aoshima Shrine is regarded as a place where prayers for marriage are answered. Visitors can pray for good fortune by tying knots in cords of different colours according to their wishes, or by throwing clay vessels at a designated spot. Another facet of the shrine can be seen at its annual winter festival on the second Monday in January, which reenacts Yamasachi-hiko’s return from the palace of the sea god. The deity is said to have ridden ashore on a shark, where a joyful crowd welcomed him.

Gardens, Seasons and Culture

The Haniwa Garden in Heiwadai Park in Miyazaki City features around 400 ancient clay figures known as haniwa. The Tower of Peace stands 37 metres tall. The park is also associated with cherry blossoms in spring and vivid autumn foliage in fall, so the scenery takes on a different character with each season.

The collection at the Miyazaki Prefectural Art Museum focuses on Eiku, a painter born in Miyazaki. Other areas of focus include artists from the region and prefecture, artists whose work offers an overview of the development of Japanese art, and significant works from abroad. The Miyazaki Science Technology Museum offers experiences such as science shows and craft workshops. Its cultural attractions range from works of art to hands-on, engaging activities.

Between Valley and Coast

Those looking to spend time in nature will find an almost level walking trail in Kaeda Valley. The trail follows the valley, where visitors can enjoy forest bathing and birdwatching. The Miyazaki Seaside Park offers different activities along the coast, including SUP and BIGSUP, as well as beach tennis and beach volleyball. Its Marina Sun Marina Miyazaki has berths for yachts and cruise ships. Sun Beach Hitotsuba is described as the only artificial beach in Miyazaki Prefecture.

Barbecuing on the north beach at Sun Beach Hitotsuba is free year-round, but a reservation is required. Check the latest operating and reservation conditions before travelling. Parasols and benches are available at AOSHIMA BEACH PARK, while the Uminoie Coffee Stand serves coffee, soft drinks and light meals. As recreational facilities and their offerings may change, it is worth checking the latest details before your visit.

More to Explore and Choosing the Right Location

The Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo is home to around 1,200 animals from 100 species, including Asian elephants, chimpanzees and lions. The zoo also has an amusement park with 15 types of rides and attractions. Nishitachi is described as Miyazaki City’s largest entertainment district, with more than 1,500 restaurants; numerous lanterns hang along both sides of its streets. Nature, culture, recreation and dining thus offer different focal points for a visit.

When choosing a holiday rental in Miyazaki, you can start by considering which of these experiences matter most for your trip: Aoshima, a day on the valley trail, visits to parks and museums, or the dining scene. This lets you base your choice on your interests without making any one attraction the measure of your entire stay.

Discover more destinations: Miyakonojo, Gokase, Sankasho, Takachiho, Saito, Nichinan, Nobeoka, Ebino.

Return to the main travel guide: Miyazaki Prefecture.