Nichinan Coast Miyazaki Japan
A breathtaking stretch of coastline in Miyazaki, Japan, featuring dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and iconic shrines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Nichinan Coast Miyazaki Japan
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking stretch of coastline in Miyazaki, Japan, featuring dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and iconic shrines.
"The Nichinan Coast offers a spectacular drive with stunning ocean views and unique cultural landmarks."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving the Nichinan Coast offers the best views and flexibility. Public transport is limited.
🙏 Udo Jingu's Lucky Stones
Try tossing a lucky stone into the ocean at Udo Jingu for good fortune!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Udo Jingu Shrine
Cave on a cliffside
A vibrant shrine nestled within a sea cave, offering stunning ocean views and a unique spiritual experience.
Sun Messe Nichinan
Seaside park
Home to seven Moai statues overlooking the Pacific, this park offers panoramic ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Devil's Washboard (Oni no Sentakuita)
Nichinan Coastline
Unique, wave-like rock formations sculpted by the sea, creating a dramatic and photogenic coastal landscape.
Nichinan Coast Road Park
Scenic viewpoint
A perfect stop to admire the dramatic cliffs and ocean breeze, offering souvenir shops and a chance to relax.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving the Nichinan Coast offers the best views and flexibility. Public transport is limited.
🙏 Udo Jingu's Lucky Stones
Try tossing a lucky stone into the ocean at Udo Jingu for good fortune!
📸 Capture the Moai Statues
Sun Messe Nichinan's Moai statues with the blue sea backdrop are a must-photograph spot.
🌊 Embrace the Coastal Drive
The entire drive along the Nichinan Coast is scenic, with palm trees lining the road.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Driving the Nichinan Coast offers the best views and flexibility. Public transport is limited.
🙏 Udo Jingu's Lucky Stones
Try tossing a lucky stone into the ocean at Udo Jingu for good fortune!
📸 Capture the Moai Statues
Sun Messe Nichinan's Moai statues with the blue sea backdrop are a must-photograph spot.
🌊 Embrace the Coastal Drive
The entire drive along the Nichinan Coast is scenic, with palm trees lining the road.
🛍️ Souvenirs at Viewpoints
Many scenic stops, like Nichinan Coast Road Park, have shops for local souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal scenery and unique attractions like Udo Jingu Shrine and Sun Messe Nichinan. The scenic drive is a major highlight, offering stunning ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere. Some note that public transport is limited, making car rental highly recommended for exploring the area.
"Nichinan Coast Road Park is a fantastic place to stop and take in the stunning views of the coastline. The drive along Nichinan Coast itself is already beautiful, but this park is the perfect spot to pause, stretch your legs, and really soak in the ocean breeze and the dramatic cliffs. Whether you’re driving or on a bus trip, this area is a must-see for anyone who loves scenic coastal roads."
Bel Zi
"Made a stop here on the way to Udo Jingu. Nice scenic view of the coastline. There’s a shop selling souvenirs too."
Khal Esham
"A beautiful road and amazing view of the ocean and the mountain."
Kenji Saietto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to explore the Nichinan Coast is by renting a car in Miyazaki City. The drive from Miyazaki City to Udo Jingu Shrine takes about an hour. Public transportation options are limited, making a car essential for flexibility.
While challenging, it's possible to use local buses to reach some points like Udo Jingu Shrine, but it requires careful planning and can be time-consuming. Renting a car is highly recommended for the best experience.
Driving is by far the best method. The roads are well-maintained and offer stunning views. If you're not driving, consider guided tours that cover the main attractions.
The main stretch from Miyazaki City to Udo Jingu Shrine is about an hour. However, to fully enjoy the viewpoints and attractions, allocate at least half a day to a full day.
Yes, major attractions like Udo Jingu Shrine and Sun Messe Nichinan have dedicated parking lots, though they can fill up during peak times. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Udo Jingu Shrine itself is free to enter. However, there is a small fee for the lucky stones you can toss for good fortune.
The entry fee for Sun Messe Nichinan is 1000 yen for adults.
Yes, the scenic drive itself, viewpoints like the Devil's Washboard, and Nichinan Coast Road Park are free to access and enjoy.
Udo Jingu Shrine is generally open 24 hours, allowing for visits at any time, though it's most atmospheric during daylight.
While Udo Jingu Shrine is accessible 24/7, Sun Messe Nichinan has specific operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. Always check current hours before visiting.
📸 📸 Photography
Key spots include Udo Jingu Shrine's cave setting, the Moai statues at Sun Messe Nichinan, and the unique Devil's Washboard rock formations. The entire coastline offers stunning ocean vistas. 
Morning and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating beautiful colors over the ocean and coastline.
Drone usage is generally restricted in many Japanese tourist areas, especially near shrines and natural parks, to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery and shrines. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the cliffs or distant ocean views.
Photography is generally permitted within the grounds of Udo Jingu Shrine, but be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Miyazaki is famous for its Hyuganatsu citrus, chicken nanban (fried chicken with tartar sauce), and fresh seafood. You can find local eateries along the coast.
There are some small restaurants and cafes near Udo Jingu Shrine, offering local snacks and simple meals. For more options, it's better to visit Nichinan City.
You might find some affordable local eateries or convenience stores. One TikTok mentioned a 100-yen handmade rice ball shop in Nichinan City.
Sun Messe Nichinan typically has a cafe or restaurant on-site offering light meals and refreshments with ocean views.
Coastal areas often have restaurants specializing in fresh seafood. Look for local recommendations in towns like Nichinan City for the best catches.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider renting a car for easier transport between sites. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options can be spread out. The scenic drives offer plenty of opportunities for kids to enjoy the ocean views.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
+2Must-do stops include Udo Jingu Shrine, Sun Messe Nichinan, and the Devil's Washboard. The freedom to pull over at numerous viewpoints allows for spontaneous photo opportunities and soaking in the coastal atmosphere. Renting a car is essential for this type of travel.
📸 Photographers
+3 Sun Messe Nichinan provides iconic shots of the Moai statues against the sea. Don't miss the Devil's Washboard rock formations, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
The entire coastline, with its rugged cliffs and blue waters, is incredibly photogenic. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Udo Jingu Shrine
+3The journey to the shrine itself is part of the experience, with a scenic path leading down to the cave. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below adds to the mystical atmosphere. It's a place that combines natural beauty with deep cultural significance, making it a highlight for many visitors to Miyazaki.
+1Pro-tip: Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit. The light during these times can also be particularly beautiful for photos.
The Allure of the Nichinan Coastline
+2A key geological feature is the 'Devil's Washboard' (Oni no Sentakuita), a series of wave-like rock formations that appear as if an ogre has used them for washing clothes. These formations are a testament to the power of the sea and create a striking visual against the ocean backdrop.
Beyond the natural wonders, the coast is dotted with unique attractions like Sun Messe Nichinan, featuring Moai statues, and the historic Udo Jingu Shrine. The combination of dramatic landscapes, unique landmarks, and a relaxed, seaside atmosphere makes the Nichinan Coast a memorable destination.
Culinary Delights of Miyazaki
Beyond chicken nanban, the region is known for its fresh seafood, reflecting its coastal location. You might also encounter unique local produce like the Hyuganatsu, a sweet and slightly tart citrus fruit. For a quick and affordable bite, some local shops offer handmade snacks, like the 100-yen rice balls mentioned in a TikTok video.
When exploring the coast, don't miss the opportunity to sample these local flavors. Many restaurants and roadside stops offer regional specialties, providing a delicious way to experience Miyazaki's culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit