Welcome to Miyazaki, the “Sunny Spot of Japan” (Nihon no Hinata). Located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu, Miyazaki offers a travel experience that is distinct from the bustling urban centers of Tokyo or Fukuoka. It is a land of vast ocean views, ancient mythology, and a relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
For families, Miyazaki is the champion of “Slow Tourism”. It isn’t about rushing from one ticketed attraction to another; it’s about coastal drives, open parks, and cultural experiences that are surprisingly accessible for children.
This guide explores the best of Miyazaki, from the wild horses of Cape Toi to the mythological gorges of Takachiho, ensuring you have all the logistics, food tips, and itineraries needed for a stress-free family adventure.
Why Miyazaki is Perfect for Families
Before diving into the specific spots, it is important to understand why Miyazaki ranks so high for traveling families, particularly those with infants to elementary school-aged children.
- Climate Advantage: Miyazaki boasts high sunshine hours and a warm climate year-round. For parents, this means fewer heavy coats and layers to pack, lightening the physical load of travel.
- Low Congestion: Unlike the crowded theme parks of Osaka or Tokyo, Miyazaki offers “low congestion” tourism. You will rarely fight for space, making it easier to keep an eye on wandering toddlers.
- Natural Accessibility: The region excels in “accessible nature.” Whether it’s the flat approaches to Aoshima Shrine or the cart rentals at hilltop parks, the infrastructure supports family mobility.
Getting Around: The Logistics Masterclass
Transportation is the single most critical factor in planning a Miyazaki trip. The attractions are spread out along a long coastline, making your choice of transport the difference between a relaxing holiday and a stressful one.
1. The Necessity of Rental Cars
According to comprehensive surveys, the optimal solution for Miyazaki family travel is a Rental Car. For a detailed breakdown of routes and tips, read our guide: Rent a Car in Miyazaki? Driving the Nichinan Coast with Family.
- The “Moving Basecamp”: A car provides a private space for naps, diaper changes, and storage for beach gear, functioning as a mobile basecamp.
- Cost vs. Convenience: For a family of four, the cost of renting a compact minivan often beats the total cumulative cost of long-distance bus fares.
- Parking is Easy: Unlike Kyoto or Fukuoka, major sites like Sun Messe Nichinan and Florante Miyazaki have vast, often free (or cheap) parking lots, minimizing parking stress.
2. Public Transport & The Bus Pass Trap
If you cannot drive, you can use the Visit Miyazaki Bus Pass (1,500JPY/day), which allows unlimited rides on local buses for foreign tourists. However, there is a critical “trap” to be aware of:
- The Limit: This pass is NOT valid for Highway Buses to Takachiho or Nobeoka.
- Best Use: Use this pass only if you are sticking to the Miyazaki City, Aoshima, and Obi/Nichinan areas.
3. The Sightseeing Train Experience
For a memorable journey, book seats on the Limited Express Umisachi Yamasachi. This train is an attraction in itself, featuring interiors made of local Obi Cedar and onboard picture-story shows by the crew to keep kids entertained.
- Note: It runs mostly on weekends and requires advance reservation as it is very popular with families.
Aoshima Area: The Beach Resort Hub
Located just south of the city center, Aoshima is the most family-friendly zone to base your stay. Everything here is compact and walkable. For an in-depth look at facilities and cafes, check out our Aoshima Beach Park with Kids: Swimming, Cafes & Toilets Guide.
Aoshima Beach Park & Village
This isn’t just a beach; it’s a lifestyle hub. The Aoshima Beach Village (opened in 2022) offers a vast 5,500-tsubo area with restaurants and BBQ facilities.
- Dining: Visit Restaurant LDK for pasta and burgers in a terrace setting where it’s okay for kids to be a little noisy.
- Summer Fun: The pop-up Aoshima Beach Park (May–Oct) features container-style shops selling pizza and smoothies—perfect for a picnic on the sand.
- Activity: Older kids (9+) can try surfing or SUP at the Aoshima Activity Center; river SUP is recommended for beginners as the water is calmer.
Aoshima Shrine & The “Devil’s Washboard”
Cross the bridge to the island to visit Aoshima Shrine.
- Eco-Tour: The surrounding rock formation, the “Devil’s Washboard,” reveals tide pools at low tide. It is the best free natural education activity in Miyazaki, where kids can find crabs and small fish.
- Fun Rituals: Inside the shrine, let the kids try “Hiraka” (clay plate throwing). Smashing the clay plates into the target area is a fun, game-like cultural experience.
- Stroller Access: The path from the mainland to the shrine is flat and paved, ensuring easy stroller access.
Kodomo no Kuni (Children’s Land)
Important Clarification: Despite internet rumors, there is NO Studio Ghibli park here (that is in Aichi). Do not confuse it with the “Totoro Bus Stop” replica in Takaharu. Kodomo no Kuni is a relaxed park with sprawling lawns and flower gardens. It’s ideal for a slow afternoon of swan boats or park golf—a sport that three generations can play together. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly stop.
The Nichinan Coast Drive
Heading south on Route 220 offers one of Japan’s best driving routes.
Sun Messe Nichinan
Famous for its seven Moai statues (the only ones in the world authorized by Easter Island elders), this hill park is a photo favorite.
- Vital Tip: The park is built on a steep slope. Renting a Round Car (Cart) upon entry is highly recommended. Pushing a stroller up these hills is exhausting; the cart turns the transport into a fun attraction.
Udo Shrine
This stunning shrine is located inside a cave on a cliff facing the ocean.
- The Challenge: There are steep stone steps to reach the main hall. Strollers are not accessible here. You must bring a baby carrier/sling for infants.
- The Fun: Try throwing the “Undama” (lucky balls) into the target on the turtle-shaped rock below. It’s a fun challenge for children and parents alike.
Miyazaki City North: Animals & Science
The area north of the Oyodo River (near Seagaia) is packed with educational fun.
Miyazaki Phoenix Zoo
A blend of zoo and amusement park.
- Must-See: The “March of the Goats” is a daily event where 50 goats stampede across a bridge—it’s chaotic and hilarious for toddlers.
- Summer: The zoo opens a pool with a flowing river ride (July–Aug) accessible with the zoo entry fee. Note that the large slider requires a height of 120cm.
Miyazaki Science Center (Cosmoland)
Located near Miyazaki Station, this is your “Plan A” for rainy days.
- Space: It houses a massive planetarium (27m diameter) and a real-size Apollo lunar lander model.
- Interactive: Exhibits like the “Energy Circus” allow kids to intuitively learn physics through touch and movement, bridging any language gaps.
Takachiho: The Mythical Adventure
A 2.5 to 3-hour drive north brings you to the spiritual heart of Japan. For complete details on boating and trails, read our Takachiho Gorge Day Trip from Kumamoto with Kids: Complete Family Guide.
Takachiho Gorge Boating
Rowing beneath the Manai Waterfall is a bucket-list item, but it requires strategy.
- Capacity Trap: Boats hold a maximum of 3 people. The only exception is 2 adults + 2 preschool children (under 6). A family of four with school-aged kids will need to rent two boats.
- Booking: You MUST reserve online in advance. Same-day tickets sell out almost instantly.
Amaterasu Railway
For train-loving kids, ride the Grand Super Cart. It’s an open-air vehicle that runs on abandoned tracks, crossing a dizzying 105m-high bridge. It offers thrills with total safety.
Family Food Guide: What to Eat
Miyazaki’s soul food is surprisingly kid-friendly, favoring sweet and savory flavors.
- Chicken Nanban: Fried chicken with sweet vinegar and tartar sauce.
- Go to: Ogura (Segashira Branch). Unlike the cramped main branch, this location has 160 seats, tatami areas, and a large parking lot. The breast meat is soft enough for young children to chew easily.
- Miyazaki Beef:
- Luxury: Miyachiku. Visit during lunch for a livelier atmosphere where kids are welcome. They offer kids’ plates for those under 10.
- Casual: Apas. Offers yakiniku (BBQ) style, which can be more fun and cost-effective for hungry teens.
- Sweets:
- Fruit Ohno: Famous for mango parfaits. Go during the day as it becomes bar-like at night.
- Cheese Manju: Try Warabe for the best crispy crust. Eat them immediately; they don’t last long!
Suggested Itineraries
The Perfect Sunny Day (Aoshima & Nichinan)
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Aoshima. Explore the “Devil’s Washboard” and Aoshima Shrine.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at Aoshima Beach Village (LDK) for burgers and pasta.
- 13:30 PM: Drive south to Sun Messe Nichinan. Rent a cart and see the Moai.
- 15:30 PM: Visit Udo Shrine. Try the Undama throw.
- 17:30 PM: Return to Miyazaki City.
The Rainy Day Backup Plan
- AM: Visit Miyazaki Science Center (Cosmoland) near the station for the planetarium and indoor physics playground.
- Lunch: Chicken Nanban at Ogura (Segashira).
- PM: Visit the Oyodo River Study Center. It’s a hidden gem with a butterfly greenhouse and 3D theater, and admission is free.
- Late PM: Retreat to Aeon Mall Miyazaki if kids need to burn energy in indoor play areas.
For broader planning, see our Kyushu Family Itineraries: The Complete Guide to Planning Your 3 to 7-Day Trip.
Where to Stay
- Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort: The safest bet. Large rooms, excellent buffets, and located right next to the Zoo and Florante gardens.
- Aoshima Grand Hotel: A bit retro (Showa-style), but the large tatami rooms prevent worries about kids falling out of bed, and it’s right on the beach.
- Aoshima Fisherman’s Beachside Hostel: Offers private family baths (requires reservation), perfect if you want a hot spring experience without separating from your children.
Final Practical Tips
- Shoes: You will take shoes off constantly at shrines and restaurants. Wear slip-ons.
- Cash: Carry about 20,000–30,000 JPY. You need coins for coin laundries, shrine offerings, and some ticket machines.
- Baby Gear: Bring a carrier/sling. Places like Udo Shrine and Takachiho have stairs where strollers are useless.
Miyazaki offers a return to “real play”—nature, animals, and myths—rather than manufactured entertainment. With a rental car and a slow pace, it might just become your family’s favorite Japanese adventure.