Aoshima Udo Jingu and Nichinan Coast Drive Course

Running south from Miyazaki City with the Hyuga Sea on your right, the Nichinan Coast is a drive brimming with tropical mood. From Aoshima Shrine, ringed by the wave-carved rock formations known as the Devils Washboard, to Udo Jingu with its vermilion hall enshrined in a seaside cave, enjoy a day that links the ocean and myth. Scenery unfolds as you drive, making this a classic route that feels quintessentially Miyazaki.

Course Route

9:00 Visit Aoshima Shrine Cross the Yayoi Bridge to the island. The whole island, cloaked in livistona palms, forms the shrine precinct and is loved for its blessings of love. The surrounding ridged rock formations are a highlight in themselves.

10:30 Scenic drive at Horikiri Pass From the coastal pass road spreads the finest view on the Nichinan Coast, with the Hyuga Sea and the washboard rocks. A phoenix palm avenue adds to the tropical feel.

11:00 Break at Michi-no-Eki Phoenix A lookout spot gazing down at the sea from a rise. Pause for a rest while browsing local products.

12:00 Meet the Moai at Sunmesse Nichinan The seven reproduction Moai statues standing on the hilltop are a famous spot for photos with the ocean behind them.

14:00 Visit Udo Jingu Descend the cape cliffs and a vermilion main hall appears within a cave. Try the lucky-ball throw to close out the trip.

Highlights

The charm of this course is that the sea view never lets up. From Aoshimas ridged rocks to the panorama at Horikiri Pass and the cliffs of Udo Jingu, the varied coastline rolls on. Udo Jingu is rare nationwide for having its main hall inside a cave, and it has long drawn faith for safe childbirth and matchmaking. Tossing a lucky ball into the hollow of the turtle-shaped rock to make a wish is a fun memory of the journey.

Access and Tips

Starting from the Miyazaki interchange makes for an easy drive, heading south along the coast from Aoshima to Udo Jingu. The road follows the shoreline through continuous curves, so allow plenty of time. At Udo Jingu there are stairs to climb between the parking lot and the main hall. Summer sun is strong, so do not forget a hat and water.

A Quick Tip

Without a car, you can still reach the main spots by local bus from Miyazaki Station toward Nichinan. In the late afternoon the light over the Hyuga Sea turns soft, making the coastal drive home especially pleasant.