Takachiho
3 tours available
Why Visit Takachiho
Takachiho is the mythological heartland of Japan. According to the Kojiki, the oldest chronicle of Japanese history, it was here that the sun goddess Amaterasu hid in a cave, plunging the world into darkness. The town treats this legend as living heritage — nightly kagura dances at Takachiho Shrine re-enact the story in a tradition stretching back centuries.
The Takachiho Gorge is the visual centrepiece: a narrow volcanic ravine where the Gokase River flows between columnar basalt cliffs reaching 80 to 100 metres high. Renting a rowing boat beneath the Manai Waterfall is one of Kyushu's most iconic experiences. Despite its fame, Takachiho's remote mountain location in northern Miyazaki keeps visitor numbers manageable.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April – May) — Fresh greenery fills the gorge and cherry blossoms appear along the river paths. Mild temperatures are ideal for rowing boats on the river.
Autumn (November) — Fiery maple foliage reflecting off the gorge's emerald water creates one of Kyushu's most photographed scenes.
Winter (November – February) — The Yokagura Festival season brings all-night sacred kagura performances at farmhouses across the region — a rare and intimate cultural experience.
Insider Tips
- Arrive before 9 AM to rent a rowing boat without the long queues — waits of two hours are common on autumn weekends.
- Attend the nightly kagura performance at Takachiho Shrine (20:00, ¥1,000) — an accessible introduction to sacred dance even for non-Japanese speakers.
- Walk the full gorge trail from the boat dock to Takachiho Shrine for river views most visitors miss by driving between stops.
- Visit Amano Iwato Shrine on the opposite bank of the Iwato River to see the cave where Amaterasu is said to have hidden.
Tours Visiting Takachiho
Hidden Kyushu: Nature, Onsen & Culture Adventure
Kyushu: Southern Japan
9-day onsen journey through Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
Kyushu Discovery: Volcanoes, Onsen & Scenic Wonders
Kyushu: Southern Japan
9-day onsen journey through Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Ibusuki. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
Kyushu Premium Experience: Nature, Heritage & Onsen
Kyushu: Southern Japan
12-day onsen journey through Yanagawa, Ibusuki, Kagoshima. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
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Region
Kyushu
Location
Available Tours
3 tours