
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
1. Amanohabakura Shrine
Shrine dedicated to a god of dreams, offering dream-predicting oracles and unusual dream-inducing stones.
- Dream Prediction: Visitors can have their dreams interpreted by the priests.
- Dream-Inducing Stones: Stones are said to induce vivid dreams when placed under pillows.
- Unique Shrine: One of the few shrines dedicated to dream deities in Japan.
2. Kuma no Oto Juku
Sound-producing bear statues that play local folk songs.
- Musical Bears: The bears play traditional Miyazaki folk tunes.
- Educational Experience: Visitors can learn about local culture and traditions.
- Interactive Attraction: Tourists can interact with the bears by pressing buttons.
3. Shirahau Toride
Life-sized statue of a white rhinoceros, symbolizing peace and friendship.
- Peace Symbol: The white rhinoceros is a symbol of peace in Africa.
- Friendship Monument: Constructed as a gift from Miyazaki to South Africa.
- Unique Landmark: One of the few white rhinoceros statues in Japan.
4. Tachinobu no Iwaya
A cave with peculiar rock formations resembling genitals.
- Natural Phenomenon: The rock formations were formed naturally over thousands of years.
- Humorous Landmark: The cave is a popular spot for local humor and laughter.
- Geological Interest: The rock formations are fascinating examples of erosion.
5. Koboyuki no Taki
Waterfall that resembles a pile of rice, symbolizing prosperity.
- Prosperity Symbol: The waterfall's shape is said to bring good fortune.
- Natural Sculpture: A rare natural phenomenon that attracts many visitors.
- Photography Spot: Offers stunning views for photography enthusiasts.
6. Hanegi no Oka
A hill of heaps of stones arranged in a peculiar shape.
- Stone Pile Mystery: The origin and purpose of the stone pile remain unknown.
- Historical Site: Believed to be over a thousand years old.
- Pilgrimage Destination: Visitors come for spiritual and cultural experiences.
7. Nachikatsuura Giant Satsuma-Ayu Fish
Giant statue of a Satsuma Ayu fish, symbolizing the town's prosperity.
- Prosperity Symbol: The Satsuma Ayu is a symbol of prosperity in the fishing industry.
- Giant Statue: One of the largest fish statues in Japan.
- Cultural Significance: The statue showcases the town's rich fishing heritage.
8. Shirakikotu Shrine
A shrine dedicated to a god of good fortune, offering wishes for a year of no misfortune.
- Good Fortune Shrine: Visitors can make a wish for a year of good fortune.
- Unusual Wishes: The shrine is known for granting unusual and specific wishes.
- Historical Significance: The shrine dates back to the Heian Period.
9. Akainu no Kura
An underground stone chamber with red-colored walls and water dripping from the ceiling.
- Natural Wonder: The red color comes from iron oxide.
- Underground Attraction: Visitors can explore the chamber with a guided tour.
- Geological Interest: The red rock formation is a rare sight in Japan.
10. Jigokudani
A hot spring valley home to wild Japanese macaques soaking in the hot springs.
- Wild Monkey Experience: An opportunity to observe and photograph wild monkeys.
- Hot Spring Valley: Beautiful landscape with hot springs and lush forests.
- Unusual Wildlife Attraction: One of the few places where monkeys can be observed in hot springs.
11. Oyodo no Sato
A village with traditional thatched-roof houses and a giant squid museum.
- Traditional Village: Preserves the old traditions and culture of Miyazaki.
- Giant Squid Museum: Displays a rare, giant squid specimen.
- Cultural Experience: Offers workshops and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
12. Kirishima Juku Onsen
A hot spring inn where guests can experience a ghostly presence.
- Haunted Inn: The inn is said to be haunted by a female ghost named Oyuki.
- Hot Spring Experience: Visitors can relax in the hot spring baths.
- Cultural Attraction: The inn offers traditional Japanese accommodation.
13. Takachiho no Senmaida
A rice terrace with over a thousand steps and stunning views.
- Natural Landscape: Offers breathtaking panoramic views.
- Historical Significance: The terraces have been in use for over 1200 years.
- Photography Spot: A popular spot for landscape photographers.
14. Kaimon Fukei no Mori
A park with a unique perspective tower overlooking the sea and islands.
- Sea View Tower: Offers a panoramic view of the ocean and nearby islands.
- Recreational Facility: The park also features picnic areas, walking trails, and a café.
- Unique Architecture: The perspective tower is designed to mimic a lighthouse.
15. Hekidensho
A haunted mansion turned into a restaurant and inn.
- Haunted Restaurant: The restaurant is said to be haunted by a female ghost.
- Unusual Accommodation: Visitors can spend the night in the spooky inn.
- Culinary Experience: The restaurant serves local Miyazaki cuisine.