Kyushu Kumamoto and Miyazaki Day Tour from Fukuoka: Ubusunokami Kumanoza Shrine, Takachiho Gorge, Amanoiwato Shrine and Amano Yasugawara

8:00am Fukuoka
Start today's beautiful journey.
Meeting Point: Lawson, Fukuoka Oriental Hotel (in front of Hakata Station Chikushi Exit)
Address: ローソン オリエンタルホテル福岡店  4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
* Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before departure. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated. Please cooperate and follow the guide's instructions.

10:50am Kumamoto
▼ Ubusunokami Kumanoza Shrine (Approx. 30–40 minutes, free exploration)
Ubusunokami Kumanoza Shrine is located in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture. Walking along the approach lined with nearly 100 lanterns feels like entering a fantastical world. The shrine is also famous as a setting for popular manga works such as Forest of Fireflies and Natsume's Book of Friends, attracting visitors from around the world.
The shrine mainly enshrines Izanagi-no-Mikoto, Izanami-no-Mikoto, and Ishikimi Taishogun. A well-known legend involves the Kuwado Iwa (Piercing Rock), where the demon priest Kihachi allegedly kicked a ten-foot hole in order to escape the pursuit of Aso Daimyojin. Today, this spot is considered a place for visitors to absorb natural energy. The sacred tree Nagi inside the shrine, whose leaves lack veins and are difficult to break when pulled sideways, symbolizes romantic fulfillment, success in work, and harmonious human connections, so many come to pray for love and business prosperity.
【Kuwado Iwa (Piercing Rock)】
Above the main hall, there is a large wind hole said to have been kicked through by Kihachi, a follower of Takeiwatatsu-no-Mikoto. The hole measures over 10 meters in both length and width, cutting through massive rocks. "Kuwado Iwa" symbolizes achieving even the most difficult goals and is believed to bring blessings for success in exams and endeavors.

11:50am Kumamoto
▼ Takamori Senbonzakura (approx. 15-20 minutes, free exploration)
The route from Takamori Natural Park to Takamori Pass is a famous cherry blossom avenue in Kumamoto, lined with approximately 7,000 cherry trees. During the annual cherry blossom season, the "Cherry Blossom Festival" is held at the Hanami Plaza here. Sitting under the cherry trees with family, classmates, or colleagues for "hanami" is a quintessential Japanese experience. On clear days, you can even enjoy views of the Aso Five Mountains, making it a unique spot for beautiful photos.
* This attraction is included only during the cherry blossom season and is not part of the itinerary outside this period.
* The season is typically from late March to early April, subject to actual local weather conditions.
* If this site is visited, the subsequent itinerary schedule will be extended by 10 minutes.

12:20pm Miyazaki
▼ Amanoiwato Shrine & Amano Yasugawara (Approx. 60–70 minutes, free exploration)
free ice cream or a drink in July, August, and September—actual item subject to availability
【Amanoiwato Shrine】
Amanoiwato Shrine, famous for the stone-stacking wishes at Amano Yasugawara, is located in Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture. The shrine is dedicated to the sacred cave Amanoiwato, believed to house divine energy offering healing, good fortune, and spiritual blessing. Many visitors come to receive goshuin (temple stamps) and protective charms.
According to Japanese mythology (Kojiki and Nihon Shoki), this is the sacred site of the Amanoiwato legend. The shrine consists of the West and East Halls, both enshrining Amaterasu-Omikami. The West Hall is believed to be where Amaterasu hid inside the cave, which is worshipped as the sacred object. Nearby is the legendary cave where Amaterasu secluded herself, plunging the world into darkness. The gods gathered on the riverbed to discuss how to lure her out. To attract her attention, the goddess Ame-no-Uzume performed a lively dance outside the cave, causing the gods to burst into laughter. Curious about the noise, Amaterasu peeked through a crack, saw her reflection in the sacred mirror, and stepped out-bringing light back to the world.
【Amano Yasugawara】
It is said that stacking stones here while making a wish will make the wish come true, and as a result, countless prayer stones have been placed by visitors along the riverbed.

13:50pm Miyazaki
▼ Takachiho Gorge (Approx. 70–80 minutes, including lunch time, free exploration)
lunch and other entrance fees at your own expense
Takachiho Gorge was formed by ancient eruptions of Mount Aso. Its signature features are steep cliffs on both sides, the 17-meter Manai Falls, and three bridges spanning the same valley-creating a uniquely scenic landscape.
Enjoy a relaxing walk along the 1 km trail (about 20 minutes one way). The path is gentle and includes several must-see spots:
【Manai Falls】One of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls and the symbol of Takachiho Gorge. According to legend, the spring water "Amanoiwato Manai" became the waterfall flowing here today.
【Oniyachi Power Stone】A massive 200-ton rock said to have been thrown by the powerful demon Onibayashi in local mythology. A giant sacred rope (shimenawa) is placed on it and renewed every year.
【Takachiho Three Bridges】Three arched bridges from three different eras:
Shinbashi (Taisho Era) – stone
Takachiho Bridge (Showa Era) – steel
Shinto Takachiho Bridge (Heisei Era) – concrete
It's the only place in Japan where you can see three bridges lined up over one gorge.
【Sennin Screen Cliff】A 70-meter cliff with striking columnar joints that resemble a giant folding screen, formed over thousands of years.

15:10pm Return
Wrap up the day's tour and begin the journey back.

18:00pm Fukuoka
Arrive at Lawson – Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station (Chikushi Exit)
Address: 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012 Japan

* The above schedule may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or other conditions. Thank you for your understanding.

B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded