Yufuin Floral Village | Review by Ming Yu

Visiting the famous natural wonder of Takachiho Gorge in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture, you can witness the breathtaking columnar-jointed gorge and spectacular waterfalls in person!

The swift, clear Gokase River runs between towering volcanic lava cliffs, while the famous Manai Falls cascades from above directly into the emerald-green gorge. Walking along the trail beside the gorge, you can look down on the relaxing scene of small rowboats passing between the waterfall and cliffs. Renting a rowboat yourself is also highly recommended, letting you experience the spray from the waterfall up close and take in the grandeur of the V-shaped gorge. Filled with a mythical atmosphere and abundant negative ions, this nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument is something you absolutely shouldn’t miss when visiting Miyazaki in Kyushu!

Aoshima Shrine, located along Miyazaki Prefecture’s Nichinan Coast, uniquely sits on the small island of Aoshima, surrounded by the natural wonder known as the Devil’s Washboard! Inside the shrine, you can see the chozuya purification pavilion, which has a deeply sacred atmosphere and allows worshippers to wash their hands and purify themselves before entering the sacred grounds. The vivid vermilion main hall looks even more striking against the blue sky and surrounding tropical plants. Aoshima Shrine is famous for prayers for good relationships, matchmaking, and safe travel by land and sea. The grounds are also filled with prayer plaques and a variety of distinctive charms, making it an extremely popular matchmaking shrine and photo spot that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Miyazaki!

Visiting the Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge in Aya, Miyazaki Prefecture, you can see this magnificent bridge that was once hailed as the world’s No. 1 pedestrian suspension bridge and spans Japan’s largest evergreen broadleaf forest!

Standing at the entrance to the bridge, the monument and magnificent deep mountain gorge make any photo look impressive. As you walk across the suspension bridge, you can gaze out over layers of lush green mountains. The air is fresh and refreshing, leaving you feeling relaxed and invigorated. It’s a highly recommended must-visit spot in Miyazaki for enjoying nature, forest bathing, and spectacular photo opportunities!