Scenic Wonders at the Southernmost Tip of Miyazaki! 11 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kushima City

Located in the southernmost part of Miyazaki Prefecture and bordering Kagoshima Prefecture to the west, Kushima City is part of the picturesque coastal area that stretches from Nichinan City. At its forefront is Toi Cape, a popular spot where you can gaze upon wild horses grazing against the backdrop of a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean—a true symbol of tropical Miyazaki. Along with Kōjima, home to a herd of wild Japanese macaques, this natural setting, enriched with national monument animals and pristine landscapes, delights visiting tourists. Venture inland and you’ll discover mystical rock formations and waterfalls formed by volcanic eruptions in the Akaiike Gorge, as well as the Ajisai Road, where the roadside is beautifully lined with hydrangeas over a distance of 4 km—offering captivating views through all seasons, from fresh greens to autumn hues. Kushima has many recommended spots for sightseeing.

1. Toi Cape

Located at the southern tip of Nichinan Coast in Miyazaki, Toi Cape is the emblematic area of Kushima City tourism. The hills covering the cape are home to wild horses (Miyazaki horses), which naturally bred after being grazed by the Takana Clan during the Edo period. If you’re curious to learn more about these wild horses, visit the Toi Cape Visitor Center located in the center of the cape, where you can enjoy a 360-degree multi-vision presentation about Toi Cape and the wild horses.

At the end of your visit, don’t miss the Toi Cape Lighthouse, perched atop a cliff at about 255 meters in elevation. With an expansive panorama of the Pacific Ocean before you and views extending to the Ōsumi Peninsula—and on clear days, even to Tanegashima—the spot is a must-see. Accessible by bus in about 45 minutes from JR Kushima Station, be sure to visit this scenic gem where horses and nature create an unforgettable spectacle.

2. Kushima Shrine

Believed to have been established in the mid-16th century, Kushima Shrine is an historic shrine located in a wooded area along the Fukushima River in the heart of Kushima City. Its enshrined deity is Yamayukihiko, a figure from the myth “Umi-sachi, Yama-sachi.” Passing through the bright white torii gate leads you to a traditional hip-and-gable style shrine, which is beautifully framed by towering ancient cedar trees.

The tranquil atmosphere of the shrine, rarely crowded with tourists, makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful visit. Seasonal festivals are held here, such as the Spring Festival on February 20 and the Autumn Grand Festival on November 13 and 14. Similar to Udo Shrine in Nichinan City, this shrine, associated with Yamayukihiko, is a must-add to your Kushima sightseeing itinerary.

3. Akaiike Gorge

Straddling the border with Shibushi City in Kagoshima Prefecture, Akaiike Gorge features countless natural potholes and numerous waterfalls formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 25,000 years ago, creating a breathtaking landscape. The area is especially recommended during the seasons of fresh green and autumn foliage.

As you walk down a nature trail through an ancient forest, you’ll come across a small shrine dedicated to Akaiike, known as the rain-making deity. The surrounding area is well-equipped with facilities such as a campground, restrooms, and washrooms. From the suspension bridge spanning the gorge, you can admire the emerald-green waters below. In summer, when the campground is open, you can enjoy water play and fishing.

4. Kōjima

Situated approximately 150 meters off the Ishibara Coast facing the Hyūga-nada Sea in the eastern part of Kushima City, Kōjima is an uninhabited island with a circumference of about 4 km. It is famous for being home to around 100 native Japanese macaques, which became well-known for their high cultural habit of washing sweet potatoes in seawater.

To reach the island, take a bus from JR Nichinan Line Nangō Station (about a 40-minute ride) and get off at the Kōjima Entrance; a short ferry ride of 5 minutes from the opposite bank will bring you to Kōjima. The monkeys, though abundant, are accustomed to humans and are not aggressive, allowing you to observe their expressions and behaviors from a respectful distance. Visitors are not permitted to feed the monkeys to help maintain the natural balance. The beautiful sandy shores along the Ishibara Coast, chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Beaches, offer a stunning view, making Kōjima an essential stop on any Kushima tour.

5. Shibushi Bay Daikoku Dolphin Land

Opened in July 2011, Shibushi Bay Daikoku Dolphin Land is an interactive theme park and a popular tourist attraction in Kushima City. Located in the western part of the city along Shibushi Bay, this park is best known for its dolphin shows. The thrilling sight of dolphins leaping out of the water is truly breathtaking.

Guests can also enjoy interactive experiences like handshakes with dolphins or swimming alongside them by holding onto their dorsal fins. Additionally, the facility offers opportunities to interact with rabbits, ponies, and even feed penguins, making it a fun destination for both adults and children. Open year-round, it’s conveniently located about 80 minutes by car from Miyazaki City or 100 minutes from Kagoshima City. Adjacent to a fresh market offering local seafood and processed specialties, it’s also a great spot for picking up souvenirs.

6. Kushima Onsen Ikoi no Sato

Located along the upper reaches of the Honjō River in central Kushima City, Kushima Onsen “Ikoi no Sato” is the city’s only hot spring inn. Its mildly alkaline waters, rich in bicarbonate ions, are considered among the best in the country for their beauty-enhancing effects. From its spacious large bath, you can admire seasonal landscapes while enjoying a leisurely soak. After your bath, you can use a tatami room free of charge to rehydrate and experience the silky smoothness of your skin.

The facility also features a large section dedicated to local specialties, offering products such as dried fish, chirimen (dried shredded fish), and snacks made from Kushima’s famous sweet potatoes. With easy access by taxi (about 15 minutes) from JR Nichinan Line Kushima Station, it’s recommended for both overnight stays and day visits—especially as a stopover when touring Toi Cape.

7. Koi-ga-Ura

On the way from Toi Cape towards the Hyūga Coast in the direction of Kōjima, a beautiful cove known as Koi-ga-Ura unfolds on your right. Its romantic name is believed to originate from a legend dating back to the late Heian period, in which Emperor Toba disembarked here and longed for Kyoto. Today, Koi-ga-Ura is famous as a surf spot attracting surf enthusiasts from across Miyazaki and beyond.

The sandy beach framed by a rugged mountain and pristine sea offers soothing scenery and the sound of the waves, providing a perfect respite. Nearby, the Kosakibana Observatory on a small hill offers an equally superb view. With restrooms available, it’s a must-see stop on a Kushima tour.

8. Kushima Strawberry Farm

In Miyazaki, a well-known strawberry-growing area, Kushima Strawberry Farm is a popular destination for strawberry picking. The strawberries are grown on elevated racks (high-set cultivation) which allow you to pick them while standing, making the experience very convenient. The spacious pathways are designed to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Within the same farm is Kushima Yume Ranch, where you can feed rabbits, goats, horses, and mini pigs, offering a delightful animal interaction experience. Please note that the farm operates from mid-December to mid-May—depending on the ripeness of the strawberries, the season may end early, so be sure to check ahead.

9. Former Yoshimatsu Residence

Facing the old Shibushi Highway in central Kushima City stands the stately Former Yoshimatsu Residence, known for its impressive main gate and stone wall. Built by the prominent Yoshimatsu family—a well-known name in Kushima—during the Taishō period, the main building, outbuilding, storage areas, gate, and stone wall have all been designated as Important Cultural Properties by the nation.

Inside, you can admire the high-quality building materials used with advanced craftsmanship of the time—handcrafted glass panes, and corridors supported by beams made from single timbers exceeding 10 meters in length. You’ll also catch a glimpse of historical life through features like the earthen well in the mud floor and the kitchen, as well as antique farming tools on display.

10. Ajisai Road

Connecting the Ōtsuka and Nichinan areas of Kushima City, Ajisai Road runs for about 4 km along the city boundary. Approximately 3,000 hydrangea plants have been planted along this route, creating a spectacular view beloved as Ajisai Road.

The best time to visit is from late May to late June when the hydrangeas are in full bloom. In addition to hydrangeas, you can also enjoy seasonal displays of cherry blossoms, spider lilies, and autumn foliage, making it one of Kushima’s top scenic drives. Entering from Prefectural Route 3 onto the Kushima-Nichinan Road will lead you directly to the Otsuka area, where signage guides you to Ajisai Road.

11. Misaki Shrine

Perched on a cliff at the easternmost tip of Toi Cape facing the Hyūga-nada Sea, Misaki Shrine is located in a thrilling setting. Founded approximately 1,300 years ago, the shrine is locally revered as a deity to ward off maritime disasters and as a matchmaker. It is also registered as a Miyazaki tourism heritage site.

From the parking lot at Toi Cape, descend a set of stairs to find a small shrine nestled halfway down the cliff. Due to concerns about landslides, access to the shrine at the very top is restricted, but you can still enjoy the breathtaking view from the lower worship area. With the vast expanse of the deep blue Pacific before you and over 3,000 sago palms thriving on the cliff, this shrine is truly awe-inspiring. When visiting Kushima, be sure to include Misaki Shrine in your itinerary along with a tour of the wild horses at Toi Cape.

◎Summary

Kushima is a highlight along the drive along the Nichinan Coast that begins at Aoshima in Miyazaki. From the wild horses at Toi Cape to the picturesque cove of Koi-ga-Ura, the stunning scenery of deep blue seas and beautiful coves is unmissable. Whether you’re exploring the rugged charm of Akaiike Gorge, soaking in the soothing waters at Ikoi no Sato, or simply strolling through the historic former Yoshimatsu Residence, Kushima offers a variety of ways to enjoy its unique appeal. Experience the beauty of each season in Kushima by visiting its diverse tourist spots, conveniently located about the same distance from both Kagoshima and Miyazaki airports. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage that Kushima has to offer!

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Scenic Wonders at the Southernmost Tip of Miyazaki! 11 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kushima City