Explore the Stunning Nichinan Waterfront: Aoshima, Horikiri Toge, and More

As seen in Suzume no Tojimari - Suzume Movie by Makoto Shinkai

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Nichinan also offers a stunning waterfront that is perfect for exploring. The Nichinan Waterfront stretches along the entire coastline of Nichinan, and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors.

The Nichinan Waterfront starts with Aoshima, a small island close to Miyazaki City downtown, that is covered with subtropical trees and plants, including palm trees that are over 300 years old. The entire island is designated as a Special National Treasure and is known as the “Aoshima Subtropical Plant Community.” The Aoshima Shrine is located in the center of the island.

Right after Aoshima on the Nichinan Waterfront is Horikiri Toge, a hill path that offers stunning views of the Nichinan Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The path is also known for its unique wave-shaped rocks along the shore and the Phoenix Tree Path.

On a sunny day, there is nothing better than going to Sun Messe Nichinan, a park symbolized by seven moai statues that have been set up with permission from Easter Island. The sight of the moai statues on green grass, lined up against a background of the blue sky and the majestic Pacific Ocean, is truly stunning. Make sure to head there early, since the park closes at 5pm!

if you still have time, Nango Reststop is consistently highly rated by it’s guest. A great view and good food awaits you. They also sell various souvenirs and even allow you to turn into a mango!

The Nango Kushima region offers beautiful beaches with snorkeling potential. Many tourists miss this area, so not much infrastructure exists.

Ishinami Coast (Swimming prohibited due to accidents) has it all. In August, bioluminescent plankton can be seen on the beach at night. On the other side, a small island Kojima (幸島) also known as Monkey Island, hosts about 100 Japanese macaques, that are being studied since 1947. The story of Satsue Mito is very interesting. A ferry service is available to the island.
Contact Kushima Tourist Association for more details.

Further down we find the surfing point of Koigaura. and then finally beautiful Cape Toi with it’s light house, where wild horses roam.

We estimate it would take a full two days to do all on this list. There are buses, but for greater flexibilty, you would proably want to rent a car.

Overall, the Nichinan Waterfront is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Miyazaki Prefecture. The combination of beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery make it a truly special place.