Nichinan Coast (Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Nichinan Coast is the general term for the beautiful coastline facing the Pacific Ocean, centered around Nichinan City in Miyazaki Prefecture. It features a mixture of near-ria inlets, cliffs, oddly shaped rocks, white sandy beaches, and subtropical vegetation, creating an appealing landscape that combines tropical scenery with history and culture. The coast is dotted with historical sites such as old settlements, pilgrimage sites, and the castle town of Obi, making it a great place to enjoy drives, strolls, photography, and seaside experiences.

Highlights

• Udo Shrine: A cave shrine built into a coastal cliff, it is popular for its approach leading down to the water's edge and the famous practice of throwing "lucky balls" into the shrine to tell fortunes. The scenery and mythical atmosphere are appealing.
• Sun Messe Nichinan: A group of replica Moai statues standing with the sea in the background. It is a famous photo spot, and on sunny days the contrast between the blue sea and the Moai is beautiful.
• Obi Castle Town: The townscape retains the atmosphere of a castle town from the Edo period. You can enjoy a historical stroll through the ruins of Obi Castle, samurai residences, and merchant streets. We also recommend sampling local cuisine and local specialties.
• Nichinan Coast Observation Point Drive: Panoramic views from the cliffs and observation decks scattered along National Route 220. The scenery changes with the light of the morning and evening and is well worth seeing.
• Cape Toi (nearby): A cape near the southern end of the Nichinan Coast. It is known for its grasslands and wild horses (Misaki horses), a natural monument (visiting by car or sightseeing bus is convenient).
• Coastal Nature and BeachesThere are many spots where you can enjoy playing on the rocks, collecting shells, and walking along the coast. Depending on the season, you can also enjoy sea activities.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus: Take the JR Nichinan Line. The main stations are Obi Station (in Nichinan's historic district) and Nichinan Station, and from there you can travel to each spot by bus or taxi. There are fewer trains than in urban areas, so be sure to check the timetable in advance.
• car: It takes about an hour to get there from Miyazaki City by heading south on National Route 220 (time may vary depending on traffic congestion and route). Traveling between tourist spots by car is convenient, and there are parking lots in various locations.
• From the airportFrom Miyazaki Airport, you can rent a car or take the airport limousine or bus to Miyazaki City, then take the JR line or car to Nichinan. The travel time will vary depending on the mode of transportation, but you should plan on spending around 1-2 hours.
• Sightseeing bus tours: There are also plans for day trips that allow you to efficiently visit the main spots. Tours are convenient if you are going to a place where public transportation is inconvenient.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Nichinan Coast Drive (main viewpoints and coastal walks only): 2-4 hours
• Day trip to major spots such as Udo Shrine, Sun Messe Nichinan, and Obi Castle Town: 6-8 hours (including travel time)
• If you plan to take your time sightseeing, eat, watch the sunset, and visit a nearby cape, we recommend staying one night.

Nearby spots

• Cape Toi (wild horse observation)
• Tropical tree-lined road along Nichinan Phoenix Road (driving course)
• A stroll through the Obi Cedar Townscape and Historic Buildings of Obi
• Surrounding beaches (sea activities available depending on the season)
• Miyazaki City (Aoshima Shrine, Miyazaki City Phoenix, Seagaia, etc.) - Easy round trip by car

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Traffic and Parking: Major tourist destinations are crowded during holidays and weekends. Parking lots may fill up, so please consider arriving early and using public transportation.
• Number of public transport services: There are sections of the JR Nichinan Line and local buses where service is limited. Be sure to check the timetable in advance and make sure you have transportation to get back.
• Consideration for the natural environment: Please follow local rules when collecting shellfish and other living creatures from rocky shores and other areas (taking them home). Always take your trash with you and act in a way that does not harm the environment.
• safety: Cliffs and rocky areas are slippery, so watch your step. In stormy weather, the waves can be high and dangerous, so do not go near the coast.
• WildlifeWhen observing wild horses at Cape Toi and other locations, keep a safe distance and do not feed or touch them.
• Climate and Seasons：The tropical climate means strong sunlight, high temperatures, and high humidity in the summer. Take measures against sunburn and stay hydrated. Be aware of severe weather and traffic disruptions during typhoon season (summer to autumn).
• Local culture and manners: When visiting shrines and temples, please observe proper etiquette and be considerate of local residents and other tourists.

Nichinan Coast is rich in tourist attractions that combine the sea and history, and is an area perfect for driving, strolling, and photography. We recommend narrowing down the sights to suit your purpose of visit, or staying overnight and taking your time to explore the area.