3 tours available
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.
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.
Kyushu: Southern Japan
9-day onsen journey through Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
Kyushu: Southern Japan
9-day onsen journey through Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Ibusuki. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
Kyushu: Southern Japan
12-day onsen journey through Yanagawa, Ibusuki, Kagoshima. Traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, with all hotels and trains included.
Region
Kyushu
Location
Available Tours
3 tours
