Miyazaki is a sun-drenched prefecture on the eastern coast of Kyushu island, celebrated for its subtropical beaches, ancient Shinto mythology, dramatic gorges, and one of Japan's most distinctive regional cuisines. Home to Takachiho Gorge, the sacred site linked to the birth of Japan, and the stunning Nichinan Coast, Miyazaki offers travelers a rare blend of natural drama, spiritual depth, and coastal relaxation far from the crowds of Japan's classic tourist trail.
Cultural orientation
Essential context for travellers.
Miyazaki has deep roots in Japanese creation mythology — the prefecture markets itself as 'the birthplace of Japan'. Locals take pride in this heritage; showing interest in the mythology of Takachiho and the shrines is warmly appreciated.
Bow when greeting people, especially at shrines, temples, and traditional restaurants — a slight head bow is sufficient for casual greetings.
Remove shoes when entering any establishment with a genkan (raised entrance) — ryokans, some restaurants, and traditional homes will have shoe racks at the entrance.
Tipping is not practised in Japan and can cause confusion or embarrassment — do not leave cash on the table after a meal.
Do's and don'ts
Quick guide to local norms.
Do
- Learn a few Japanese phrases — locals in Miyazaki are less accustomed to international tourists than Tokyo and will appreciate even basic efforts
- Carry cash at all times — many rural restaurants, shrines, and markets in Miyazaki are cash-only
- Photograph the landscape and public areas freely — Miyazaki's scenery is spectacular and photography is welcomed almost everywhere
- Try chicken nanban at Ogura Honten even if you are an experienced Japan traveler — this is one of the most locally significant dishes in Japan
Don't
- Do not eat or drink while walking through shrine grounds or castle areas
- Do not feed or touch the wild horses at Cape Toi — they are protected wild animals
- Do not swim at beaches without lifeguards or after red flag warnings
- Do not speak loudly on trains or at quiet shrines and temples
- Do not photograph shrine ceremonies unless staff have explicitly confirmed it is permitted
Etiquette by setting
How to navigate everyday situations.
Useful phrases
A few words go a long way.
ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)
Thank you very much
すみません (Sumimasen)
Excuse me / I'm sorry (use to get attention, to apologize, or to pass)
これはいくらですか (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)
How much is this?
英語は話せますか (Eigo wa hanasemasu ka?)
Do you speak English?
〜はどこですか (~ wa doko desu ka?)
Where is ~? (fill in the destination)
おいしい (Oishii)
Delicious! (a sincere compliment to any chef or cook)
宮崎 (Miyazaki)
Miyazaki (pronunciation: mee-ya-za-kee)
高千穂 (Takachiho)
Takachiho (pronunciation: tah-kah-chee-hoh)
Religion & spirituality
Understanding faith in Miyazaki.
Items:
- Faith
- Shinto
- Relevance
- Deeply embedded in Miyazaki life. The prefecture has more nationally significant Shinto shrines per capita than most in Japan, linked to the creation myths of the Japanese islands.
- Faith
- Buddhism
- Relevance
- Present but less dominant than Shinto in Miyazaki. Buddhist temples coexist with shrines. Some shrine complexes have Buddhist elements.
- Faith
- Yokagura
- Relevance
- Ancient ritual performance tradition (predating formal Shinto) performed in mountain villages from November-February — one of Japan's oldest living sacred arts.