Takachiho

Takachiho (高千穂) is a town located in the northwestern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its rich natural landscapes, deep-rooted traditional culture, and legends associated with Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess who appears in Japanese mythology.

One of Takachiho’s main attractions is Takachiho Gorge, a ravine formed by the erosion of the Gokase River. Famous for its scenic beauty, visitors can enjoy a close-up view of the steep cliffs and waterfalls from hand-paddled boats. The gorge is particularly spectacular during the autumn foliage season when the canyon walls are adorned with red and gold hues.

Takachiho is home to several important Shinto shrines. Takachiho Shrine, located in the center of town, serves as the spiritual heart of the region. Amano Iwato Shrine is particularly significant as it enshrines the cave where, according to Japanese mythology, Amaterasu is said to have hidden herself, plunging the world into darkness.

For visitors interested in traditional culture, Takachiho offers various experiential activities. These include making masks used in Takachiho Kagura (a traditional sacred dance) and trying on yukata (a casual summer kimono). Notably, Takachiho Kagura is an important local traditional performing art. While the full kagura is performed all night in various districts from November to February, a shortened version for tourists is presented nightly at Takachiho Shrine. This dance dramatizes the stories of Amaterasu and other deities.

Takachiho’s food culture is also appealing. Takachiho soba is a local specialty known for its firm noodles. Takachiho beef, a variety of Miyazaki beef, is famous for its tenderness and rich flavor. Additionally, local dishes such as “gane” (vegetable tempura made with sweet potatoes and burdock root) and “kappo-zake” (local sake drunk from a bamboo tube) are representative of Takachiho’s unique food culture.

Takachiho is a special place where rich nature, deep history, and living traditions converge. Its appeal as the setting for mythology and the cultural experiences that continue to thrive today provide unforgettable memories for visitors.

Attractions in Takachiho

Takachiho Gorge Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡) is a natural wonder located in the town of Takachiho in the Miyazaki Prefecture of Japan. Designated as a National Scenic Spot and...

Takachiho Shrine Takachiho Shrine (高千穂神社) is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Takachiho in the Miyazaki Prefecture of Japan. It is dedicated to the sun goddess Ama...

Amano Iwato Shrine Amano Iwato Shrine (天岩戸神社) is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Takachiho in the Miyazaki Prefecture of Japan. It is dedicated to the sun goddess A...

Getting there

By Bus

• About 3 hours 30 minutes by direct express bus from Fukuoka (Hakata Station) (4,100 yen)
• About 3 hours by express bus from Kumamoto Station (2,700 yen)
• About 2 hours 45 minutes from Miyazaki City via Nobeoka Station

By Train and Bus Combination

• From Fukuoka:

1. About 50 minutes by Kyushu Shinkansen from Hakata Station to Kumamoto Station
2. About 3 hours by bus from Kumamoto Station to Takachiho Bus Center

• From Miyazaki:

1. About 1 hour 15 minutes by JR Nippo Main Line from Miyazaki Station to Nobeoka Station
2. About 1 hour 30 minutes by bus from Nobeoka Station to Takachiho

By Car

• About 2 hours 40 minutes from Fukuoka
• About 1 hour 30 minutes from Kumamoto