Cape Toi Miyazaki
Witness wild Misaki horses roam freely on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Cape Toi, Miyazaki.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden grass, pleasant weather
Cape Toi Miyazaki
Best Time
Golden grass, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness wild Misaki horses roam freely on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Cape Toi, Miyazaki.
"Unique experience to see the wild horses in such a scenic environment."
🚗 Car is Recommended
While possible via bus, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Cape Toi and the surrounding Nichinan coast.
🐴 Keep Your Distance
Admire the wild Misaki horses from afar. Never feed or touch them to ensure their safety and well-being.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Misaki Horses
Throughout the cape
Witness descendants of samurai horses roaming freely against a stunning coastal backdrop. A truly unique wildlife encounter.
+2Cape Toi Lighthouse
Summit of the cape
A picturesque lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
Nichinan Coastline Drive
Coastal road leading to Cape Toi
Enjoy a scenic drive along the beautiful Nichinan coast, with breathtaking ocean vistas and lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Cape Toi
Respecting the Wild Horses
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is Recommended
While possible via bus, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Cape Toi and the surrounding Nichinan coast.
🐴 Keep Your Distance
Admire the wild Misaki horses from afar. Never feed or touch them to ensure their safety and well-being.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The dramatic cliffs, blue ocean, and roaming horses create incredible photo opportunities.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on uneven terrain to explore the cape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is Recommended
While possible via bus, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Cape Toi and the surrounding Nichinan coast.
🐴 Keep Your Distance
Admire the wild Misaki horses from afar. Never feed or touch them to ensure their safety and well-being.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The dramatic cliffs, blue ocean, and roaming horses create incredible photo opportunities.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on uneven terrain to explore the cape.
💰 Entry Fee
A small fee (around 400 JPY) is charged for entry, reportedly to support the horses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are enchanted by the unique experience of seeing wild Misaki horses roaming freely against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and lush green cliffs. The scenic beauty of Cape Toi and the Nichinan coastline is frequently praised. However, some visitors express concerns regarding the welfare of the horses and the condition of the facilities.
"Unique experience to see the wild horses in such a scenic environment. The green hills and the blue ocean are a perfect canvas for the pictures with the horses. We stayed at a small campsite (say hello to Kuki!) and spent basically one afternoon and the entire morning in the nature park. We had a great time with the perfect weather in November 2024."
Ralf Blaich
"In the winter the grass isn't the postcard photo green, but a beautiful golden. A amazing location high on the cape, an awesome view where you can pretty see cedar forests and ocean. Stunning to see the wild horses. They were not too scared by us either. If you come to Miyazaki, you have to come here!"
Guye Peak
"It's as beautiful and fun as I had been imagining all these years of living in Miyazaki. I'm so happy I finally got to see it. If you love nature and scenic views, this is the place. I even made friends with a cat!"
G Craig
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Cape Toi without a car can be tricky. You can take a JR train to Kushima Station and then a bus towards Cape Toi, but bus services are infrequent. Many visitors opt for guided tours or rent a car for easier access.
For exploring areas like Cape Toi and other natural sights, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. Public transport can be limited outside of major cities.
Yes, but it requires careful planning. Buses run from Kushima Station, but schedules can be infrequent. Check local bus timetables in advance.
Yes, it's possible to visit Cape Toi as a day trip, especially if you have a car. However, it's a significant drive, and staying overnight allows for a more relaxed experience.
Several tour operators offer day trips or multi-day tours that include Cape Toi, particularly those focusing on the Miyazaki or Kyushu region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee, typically around 400 JPY per person, which is said to contribute to the upkeep of the wild horses.
Cape Toi is generally open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check the latest hours before your visit.
Advance booking is not typically required for general entry to Cape Toi. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance.
Yes, events like the 'Noyaki' (grass burning) sometimes take place, offering a unique spectacle. Pre-registration is often required for participation.
While the main paths are generally manageable, some areas might be uneven. It's advisable to check accessibility details if you have specific mobility concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cape offers stunning vistas. Focus on the areas where the wild horses graze with the ocean as a backdrop, and the lighthouse for iconic shots.
Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting, but the midday sun also provides clear views of the landscape and horses. Golden hour in the late afternoon is particularly magical.
While the horses are accustomed to people, maintain a respectful distance. Getting too close can disturb them and is not recommended.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the horses from a distance.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and near wildlife. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🐴 Wildlife & Nature
The main attraction is the wild Misaki horse. You might also spot various seabirds and other small wildlife.
The Misaki horses are generally docile and used to human presence. However, they are still wild animals, so it's important to be cautious and give them space.
The horses are present year-round. However, the landscape changes seasonally, with golden grasses in winter and lush green in spring.
The terrain consists of rolling green hills and cliffs overlooking the ocean. Some paths can be steep and uneven.
There are basic facilities, including restrooms and a small gift shop. Some reviews mention the toilets could be cleaner.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the terrain is generally manageable, keep an eye on younger children on steeper paths. The drive along the Nichinan coast can also be an enjoyable part of the family adventure. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space to explore and observe the horses.
🚗 Road Trippers & Nature Lovers
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique ecosystem and the chance to observe the Misaki horses in their natural habitat. The rolling hills and the vast Pacific Ocean create a sense of wild, untamed beauty. It's an ideal spot for photography, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the natural splendor.
+1📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the scenery and telephoto lenses to get closer shots of the horses without disturbing them. The changing light throughout the day offers different moods and perspectives. Be prepared for wind, as it's an exposed cape, which can add a dynamic element to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Misaki Horses: A Living Legacy
+2It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals. While they appear calm, they are not pets. Never feed or attempt to touch the horses. This is for their own well-being and to maintain their wild nature. Respecting their space ensures that future generations can continue to witness this extraordinary sight.
Some visitors have expressed concerns about the welfare of the horses, noting conditions like overgrown hooves or visible ribs in some individuals. While the entrance fee is intended to support the horses, differing opinions exist on their care. It's a complex issue, and visitors are encouraged to observe respectfully and be mindful of the horses' natural environment.
Navigating Cape Toi: Travel and Access
If you opt for public transport, be prepared for potential waiting times and limited routes. Alternatively, consider joining a guided tour that includes Cape Toi. These tours often handle transportation logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. The drive along the Nichinan coast itself is a highlight, offering breathtaking ocean views and picturesque stops.
+1Once at Cape Toi, the terrain is characterized by rolling hills and cliffside paths. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. While there are basic facilities like restrooms, some reviews suggest they could be better maintained. The small entrance fee contributes to the park's upkeep and the care of the Misaki horses.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit