Kyushu Tour to Takachiho Gorge, Kamishikimi Kumanoza and Shrine

Meeting Time: 7:50 AM Departure Time: 8:00 AM Address: LAWSON Fukuoka Oriental Hotel Branch Please arrive before 8:00 AM and look for the “Easy Go” sign. The vehicle will leave at 8:00 AM and will not wait for latecomers.

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is a beautiful and peaceful shrine famous for its long stone staircase and tall cedar trees. Sunlight shines through the trees, creating a magical and quiet atmosphere. It is a popular place for nature lovers, photographers, and visitors who want to experience traditional Japanese spirituality. The entire pathway is surrounded by towering cedar trees, and the light shines through the gaps in the trees, creating a quiet and mysterious atmosphere. Special cherry blossom season itinerary: The estimated start time is from late March to early April. We will visit Jojuji Temple to see the cherry blossoms. There will be some adjustments based on the weather and flowering period. Thank you for your understanding.

Josen-ji Temple offers travelers a peaceful retreat where they can experience traditional Japanese Buddhist culture in a serene setting. Visitors will see classic wooden temple architecture with elegant tiled roofs, sacred statues housed within the main hall, and beautifully maintained grounds adorned with stone lanterns and seasonal flowers. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place for quiet reflection, prayer, or simple relaxation away from the busy city streets. Travelers can stroll through the garden areas, take photographs of the historic structures, and appreciate the changing scenery throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring to colorful autumn leaves, making the visit both culturally enriching and visually memorable. Special cherry blossom season itinerary: The estimated start time is from late March to early April. We will visit Jojuji Temple to see the cherry blossoms. There will be some adjustments based on the weather and flowering period.

Chiho House is a local restaurant that offers traditional regional dishes. It is known for serving fresh ingredients and special set meals, giving visitors a taste of local food culture. It is a convenient and comfortable place for travelers to enjoy lunch during their tour. Starting August 1st, we will offer a Miyazaki specialty local dish - a beef set meal. For travelers who do not eat beef, we will provide a chicken set meal or a vegetarian set meal. Please indicate your preference when making a reservation. (Please note any allergies or foods you avoid.)

Takachiho Gorge is a beautiful gorge formed by volcanic activity. It is famous for its tall cliffs, clear river water, and the scenic Manai Waterfall, which flows into the gorge. Visitors can walk along the paths, enjoy the views, or take a boat ride to see the canyon from the water. It is one of the most popular natural attractions in the area.

Amano Iwato Shrine is a sacred Shinto site deeply connected to Japanese mythology and the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu. Nestled in a serene forest setting along the Iwato River, the shrine marks the location of the cave where Amaterasu is said to have hidden herself, plunging the world into darkness. Travelers will walk through peaceful pathways surrounded by towering cedar trees, visit the main worship hall, and view the sacred cave across the river from a designated observation area guided by shrine priests. Nearby, visitors can also explore the riverbank filled with small stone cairns stacked by pilgrims as offerings. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with its powerful mythological significance, makes Amano Iwato Shrine a spiritually enriching and culturally fascinating destination in Takachiho.

Amanoyasukawara is a mystical riverside cave shrine located near Amano Iwato Shrine and is closely tied to the legend of Amaterasu. According to Japanese mythology, this is the sacred gathering place where the gods assembled to discuss how to lure Amaterasu out of her cave and restore light to the world. Travelers will walk along a scenic forest path beside the clear river before reaching the dramatic cave entrance, where thousands of small stones have been carefully stacked by visitors as prayers and wishes. Inside the cave, a modest shrine creates a powerful spiritual atmosphere, enhanced by the sound of flowing water and the natural rock formations. The setting feels both ancient and deeply sacred, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Japanese mythology, quiet reflection, and the serene beauty of Takachiho’s natural landscape.