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Takachiho Gorge is a tourist spot in Miyazaki, the capital of Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island (Japan's third-largest island). The gorge lies in Takachiho town north of Miyazaki City. It is known for its breathtaking beauty. Rock cliffs reach skywards, some of the stone formations were jagged and others stacked like seashells. Trapped between the imposing rocks, the teal coloured water of the Gokase river that flows from Mouth Aso. Rowing in the calm waters of Gokase river, you will see the water burst of the 17 meters Manai falls as it ends up being turned into a fine mist while a burst of bright sunshine strikes through the falls thus creating a rainbow. 

The Takachiho Gorge reminisce those scenes shown in the lord of the rings when the movie got its inspiration from Kawarau gorge in New Zealand. During autumn, the leaves of oak trees and other vegetations that lines up Takachiho turns into a potpourri of colours - golden-yellow, orange, and red. There's a promenade that runs throughout the length of the gorge. Nearby attractions include the Kunimigaoka where you could witness the sea of clouds during the early mornings of winter and autumn. 

How to get there?

By Air

ANA, JAL and Solaseed Air runs flight daily from Tokyo to Miyazaki. From Miyazaki airport, take the Hyuga or JR Nichirin express. This will take you to Nobeoka station for 3000 Yen. Travel times take 80 minutes. Go to Miyazaki Kanko bus that will take you to Takachiho bus centre (travel time 90 minutes for 1790 Yen).

By bus

From Fukuoka - take a direct bus that leaves Hakata station (Ticket price is 4020 Yen for one way trip and 7200 for a round trip.
From Kumamoto - Take a bus from Kumamoto JR station (Ticket price is 4110 yen).

From Miyazaki - Take a bus from Miyako City Bus Center for 2 hours and 40 minutes. Tickets are 2,500 Yen.

Boat rental

You can rent a boat for 2, 000 yen for 30 minutes.

Photo by Heroaki Kaneko

Under license by Creative Commons

Tags: Takachiho gorge, japanese tourist spots, tourists spots, Miyazaki prefecture, Manai falls, japan tourism, beautiful tourists spots, japanese tourism, scenic places