Takachiho Gorge

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Takachiho Gorge

The photographer’s dream, a gorge of the National Place of Scenic Beauty.

4.45 11

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Takachiho Gorge is a narrow v-shaped chasm made over thousands of years by the Gokase River’s erosion of Mt. Aso’s volcanic rock.
This spectacular place is surrounded by cliffs that average 80 meters in height (reaching up to 100 meters) and extend along for 7 kilometers.
Takachiho Gorge has been designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.

The most spectacular sight in Takachiho Gorge is Manai Falls, which boasts a drop of 17 meters. Manai Falls has been granted the title of one of Japan’s 100 Waterfalls, and you can get right to the foot of the falls by row boat. Part of the pathway is accessible for wheelchair visitors so they can enjoy the powerful view of the falls.
Also, the Takachiho 3 bridges, visible from the pathway, are a popular subject for photographers. Though each bridge was built in a different time frame, it is said that Takachiho is the only place to see the three arch bridges at once.
In addition, Takachiho Gorge is a location mentioned in many myths and legends, making it a famous spiritual spot.

Highlights

  • Spiritual spot with many myths and legends.
  • Popular site for photographers.
  • Feel the dynamic falls from the bottom by renting a boat.
  • In summer, the Manai Falls and the pathway are illuminated.
  • A part of the pathway is wheelchair accessible.

Photos

  • Takachiho Gorge

    Takachiho Gorge

  • Manai Falls

    Manai Falls

  • Takachiho 3 bridges

    Takachiho 3 bridges

  • Pathway

    Pathway

  • Legendary rock, Kihachi’s power stone

    Legendary rock, Kihachi’s power stone

  • Illumination

    Illumination

Reviews

11

Some reviews are AI-translated.

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    Takachiho Gorge in the wind and rain had its own poetic charm.

    On 20260627, after being greeted by a rare morning rainbow over Kumamoto Castle, my very first trip to Kyushu, Japan began. Following the journey, I arrived at Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture. Although the area was under the outer circulation of Typhoon Mitag, with a steady drizzle along the way, it made the mountains and forest look even more lush. Mist drifted through the gorge, like an ink-wash landscape painting. The rushing stream surged past. I couldn’t get close to Manai Falls, and I also missed the chance to take a leisurely boat ride through the gorge. Still, the rain and mist created a different kind of quiet beauty and emotion.

    Travel doesn’t always go exactly as planned, but the wind and rain made the experience even more meaningful. It also made this Kyushu memory feel even more precious and unforgettable.

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    Takachiho Gorge was one of the most breathtaking spots on this trip. As soon as we stepped onto the trail, we were surrounded by lush greenery, and the air felt fresh and comfortable.

    The towering gorge, vibrant green forest, and clear stream complemented each other beautifully. Along the way, we could also enjoy the famous Manai Falls, which made the scenery feel incredibly soothing.

    Sunlight filtered through the treetops, and a gentle breeze made the whole forest feel even more alive. Walking along the trail, we could hear the sound of flowing water from time to time, and it really helped us relax.

    There’s none of the noise of the city here, only the pure beauty of nature. It makes you want to slow down and fully enjoy the peace and emotion brought by all this greenery.

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    Visited in early summer, and from the entrance all the way to the gorge, everything was lush and green. Super soothing.
    The walking path was easy too, so it was a really comfortable way to get close to nature.
    The columnar volcanic rock formations had a unique kind of beauty, and we were lucky to get great weather.
    It was a little hot, but seeing the scenery in the sunlight with my own eyes was even more beautiful than in the photos.

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    Miyazaki is a place full of myths, especially stories like 'Tenson Korin' and 'Ama-no-Iwato.'
    'Tenson Korin' is about Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who came down here to rule the world. The first Japanese emperor, Jimmu, is said to be a descendant of Amaterasu.

    Takachiho Gorge was formed by lava from Mt. Aso cooling rapidly and being eroded by the Gokase River, creating this stunning V-shaped valley.

    You can stroll here for about 40 minutes to an hour.
    When you visit, you have to try the local specialties:
    - Nagashi somen (flowing noodles)
    - Rowboat ride through the gorge
    You can also ride the Takachiho Amaterasu Railway, which takes about 30 minutes (10 trips a day, 30 people per trip).

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    Entering the land of Japanese deities—Takachiho Gorge is located in Mitai, Takachiho Town, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture. The most famous spot in the gorge is the Manai Falls, which is listed among Japan's top 100 waterfalls and is now designated as a scenic spot and natural monument.

Details

Name in Japanese
高千穂峡
Postal Code
882-1103
Address
Mitai oshioi, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki
Tel
0982-73-1213 (Takachiho-cho Tourism Association)
Boat Rentals
8:30am - 5:00pm (last rentals at 4:30pm)
Access
7 minutes by car from Takachiho Bus Center
Official Website
Official Website (English)