This full day car tour takes in the beautiful Nichinan Coast, combining spectacular scenery, architecture, and history. We start at Aoshima Beach, known for its island shrine, botanical gardens, and sub-tropical scenery. Then we drive the wild Nichinan Coast, w/plenty of photo ops, to the mysterious Udo Jingu (shrine), precariously carved into seaside rock face. Then, on to the preserved samurai/merchant houses in the castle town of Obi, where coffee can be enjoyed in 300-year old surroundings.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At the client's hotel in Miyazaki City
- At the client's hotel in Miyazaki City, or at Miyazaki airport or train station
Aoshima Beach and Shrine
One of the most famous natural and cultural sites in Southern Japan, sub-tropical Aoshima not only boasts and spectacular beach and garden parks but also one of Japan's most uniquely located shrines, on an island accessible only by a footbridge. There are also several quaint snack and souvenir outlets lining the entrance road that can be enjoyed.
Devil's Washboard
Take a walk on the geologically rare 'Devil's Washboard' on the shoreline while your guide outlines the mythology of the area, one tied to the founding of the entire country of Japan. We will spend about 90 minutes here.
Nichinan Coast and Udo Jingu (shrine)
We travel the winding Nichinan coast, known for its amazing seascapes, among the most spectacular in Asia. There are a few great photo op spots along the way, as well as fishing villages and craft shops (total driving time approx. 1 hour, with short stops). We then reach another of Japan's most beguiling shrines, Udo Jingu, carved directly into rock face above the crashing sea. We tour the atmospheric shrine and its wild surroundings. Time at Udo Jingu = 45 minutes to one hour. Lunch can be taken here (40 minutes) or at our next stop in Obi.
Obi Castle and Samurai houses
Obi is a well-preserved historical castle (ruins) town, surrounded by an atmospheric neighbourhood of walled samurai and merchant houses, some dating back three hundred years. Many have been converted into small folklore museums, cafes, or shops displaying local crafts. Your guide will stroll with you down the best of the back streets and introduce you to some of the local treats.
Ending Point
Return to the starting point in Miyazaki City at approx. 16:00
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
*Guide
*Private transportation by Nissan Note sedan
*Gasoline fee and toll fees
*Food/drink (Suggest each visitor to bring a minimum of 4000 yen to cover lunch)
*Souvenirs
A fair bit of walking is involved but nothing particularly difficult. Sneakers are preferable to any kind of dress shoes.
Once I know the client's date/time plans and options I can arrange a tour around these.
Originally from Canada, I've been living in Japan for 35 years, most of that in Miyazaki. I speak the language and I know the area better than most locals. In Miyazaki, there is a lack of public transport so I'd be happy to drive you to places like Aoshima (a beautiful beach and surfing hub), Udo Jingu (a unique seaside shrine), the samurai and merchant residences of Obi, and introduce you to the best spots for local food, shopping, or nightlife, as well as let you in on a few hidden secrets of Miyazaki if you have the time.
$189/ per group