For those seeking a day of spiritual enlightenment and natural beauty, this guided excursion from Fukuoka to Miyazaki’s Takachiho Gorge and shrines promises an unforgettable journey. Visitors will enjoy the mystical atmosphere of sacred sites, marvel at the dramatic landscapes carved by the Gokase River, and savor an ice cream treat – all with the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide. However, the true essence of this experience goes far beyond the itinerary, offering insights into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and the captivating wonders that lie beyond the city limits.
Key Points
- This day trip from Fukuoka offers a comprehensive exploration of Japan’s spiritual and natural wonders, including Takachiho Gorge and several historic shrines.
- The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned bus, a knowledgeable guide, and an ice cream treat during the summer months.
- Visitors can experience the captivating atmosphere of the Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, with its 97 stone lanterns, and the Amanoiwato Shrine, a sacred site in Japanese mythology.
- The tour also includes a visit to Amanoyasugawara, the large cave where the deity Amaterasu Omikami is believed to have hidden, and the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge.
- The day trip is an affordable and convenient way to explore this region, with prices starting from just €86.79 per person and a meeting point at Hakata Station in Fukuoka.
Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine
Situated along the approach to the main shrine, the Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine boasts a mystical ambiance with its 97 stone lanterns lined up in an orderly fashion. These ancient lanterns, dating back centuries, create a captivating atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy the shrine’s rich history and cultural significance.
The shrine is known for its strong connection to Japanese mythology, serving as a sacred place where worshippers can connect with the divine. As one of the highlights of the day trip, the Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions and the country’s deep reverence for the natural world.
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Amanoiwato Shrine
From the Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, the tour continues to the Amanoiwato Shrine, which enshrines the sacred Amanoiwato cave – the legendary hiding place of the deity Amaterasu Omikami in Japanese mythology. Visitors can explore the shrine’s serene atmosphere and pay homage to the important deity.
The approach to the shrine is marked by a series of stone torii gates, leading visitors deeper into the sacred site. The Amanoiwato Shrine holds significant cultural and historical importance, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich mythology and spiritual traditions.
With 40 minutes allocated for this stop, guests can enjoy the shrine’s captivating ambiance and learn more about its legends.
Amanoyasugawara
Departing from the serene Amanoiwato Shrine, the tour now ventures to the renowned Amanoyasugawara, also known as Gyobogaiwaya. This sacred site is believed to be the large cave where the god Amaterasu-Omikami hid in Japanese mythology, a pivotal moment in the nation’s creation story. Visitors can explore the impressive cave formation and learn about its mythological significance.
The tour allows 30 minutes to wander the grounds and take in the serene atmosphere before continuing on to the next stop, the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, one of Japan’s top natural wonders.
Takachiho Gorge
The Takachiho Gorge is a breathtaking national natural monument that showcases Japan’s stunning natural beauty. Carved by the Gokase River, this 11-kilometer-long gorge boasts towering, sheer cliffs and crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding lush greenery.
One of the most impressive features is the Manai Falls, which cascades 17 meters down the rocky walls. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river or hike the trails to admire the gorge’s dramatic landscapes and serene atmosphere. The Takachiho Gorge is truly a natural wonder that offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city life, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers exploring the Miyazaki region.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTransportation and Duration
To experience the wonders of the Takachiho Gorge, the day trip from Fukuoka offers a convenient and efficient transportation solution. The tour lasts around 10 hours, providing ample time to explore the four key stops: Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, Amanoiwato Shrine, Amanoyasugawara, and the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge. Travelers will be transported by an air-conditioned bus or coach, ensuring a comfortable journey.
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide to provide insights and historical context along the way. Plus, visitors can enjoy a refreshing ice cream during the warmer months of July to September. With a meeting point conveniently located in front of Hakata Station, this day trip is an excellent way to discover the natural wonders and cultural significance of the Takachiho region.
Inclusions
The day trip from Fukuoka includes several convenient and enjoyable features. Travelers will ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey. A knowledgeable guide will accompany the group, providing insights and information about the sites visited.
As a special treat, the tour includes ice cream during the summer months, from July to September, providing a refreshing respite from the warm weather. With these inclusions, the day trip offers a well-rounded experience, catering to the needs and comforts of the participants. The combination of transportation, guidance, and small indulgences enhances the overall enjoyment of the Takachiho Gorge and shrine exploration.
Pricing
One of the key highlights of this day trip is its affordability, with prices starting from just €86.79 per person. Considering the extensive itinerary and the range of inclusions, this price point represents excellent value for money.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, and even an ice cream treat during the summer months. Given the breathtaking natural scenery and the cultural significance of the shrines, this day trip to Miyazaki’s Takachiho Gorge and surrounding sights is a must-do for visitors to the Fukuoka region.
Travelers can conveniently reserve their spot now and pay later, making it a flexible and budget-friendly option.
Meeting Point
Where does the day trip from Fukuoka depart? The tour departs from the Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel, located in front of Hakata Station’s Chikushiguchi. Passengers should arrive 15 minutes in advance and look for the guide with a yellow flag.
The meeting point offers several conveniences:
- Easy access to public transportation, as it’s situated near Hakata Station
- Familiarity, as Lawson is a popular Japanese convenience store chain
- Visibility, with the guide’s yellow flag serving as a clear landmark
- Punctuality, with the requirement to arrive 15 minutes early
- Comfort, as the air-conditioned bus departs from this central location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?
Yes, the itinerary can be modified to visit other sites. The tour operator may accommodate requests to add or substitute destinations, subject to availability, transportation, and time constraints.
How Can I Get a Discount on the Tour Price?
To get a discount on the tour price, the traveler could inquire about any available promotions, discounts for groups, or package deals. Plus, they might check if there are any loyalty programs or membership discounts applicable to the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
For this tour, there is no option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed at 10 hours, with specific time allotted for each stop. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, longer excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator allows this, as long as the items don’t interfere with the group’s activities or the vehicle’s cleanliness.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel or modify their reservation up to 24 hours before the tour’s departure time and receive a full refund. There are no fees for these changes.
Recap
This day trip from Fukuoka offers a captivating exploration of Japan’s spiritual and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the mystical atmosphere of the shrines, and marvel at the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, a national natural monument. With transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an ice cream treat, this tour provides an affordable and convenient way to experience this remarkable region.
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