We continue our mission to make you familiar with all bigger cities and prefectures in Kyūshū so you can plan your trips in the spring time. Today’s topic will be Miyazaki (宮崎)

Miyazaki is the capital city of Miyazaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu in Japan. Located on the coast and crossed by several rivers, Miyazaki City enjoys scenic views of both ocean and nearby, verdant mountains. A popular resort destination for Japanese tourists, the city offers many attractions, including the SeaGaia event center, the Phoenix Zoo, and many large hotels and onsens. The city is the primary shopping destination for eastern Kyushu residents in smaller towns around the prefecture. Miyazaki city was founded on April 1, 1924.

The total area is 596.68 km². As of December 2010, the current population is 399,834.

Miyazaki Prefectural Office became famous as a tourist spot when Hideo Higashikokubaru, a national celebrity, became the mayor of Miyazaki.

Miyazaki-jingū, a shrine in the city’s center, is one of Miyazaki’s sacred dedications to Japan’s first emperor, Jinmu. Another interesting sight to visit is the Heiwadai Tower or “Peace Tower” in the expansive Heiwadai park, is a must-see for tourists. Originally the “Tower of the Emperor,” symbolizing Japanese imperial expansion, it was renamed for peace after the events of World War II. If you want to enjoy nature, you should visit Aoshima. Aoshima Island and shrine, only minutes south of the city, boasts some rare rock formations known as the Devil’s Washboard among a peaceful beach setting, and is a popular relaxation and play destination for locals and travelers alike. The fascinating Aoshima Subtropical Botanical Garden is also located nearby.

Have you event been to Miyazaki? Tell us about your impressions!