14 Recommended Tourist Spots in Misato Town, Miyazaki Prefecture! A Town Overflowing with Nature and Historical Romance

Located in the northern part of Miyazaki Prefecture, Misato Town is a scenic area rich in nature, nestled within the Kyushu Mountain Range. Visitors can enjoy dynamic waterfalls, beautiful flowers, and colorful autumn foliage.

A unique feature of Misato Town is its deep ties with South Korea, owing to a legend that royal descendants of Baekje—an ancient kingdom on the Korean Peninsula—once sought refuge here. Because of this, cultural exchange with Korea remains strong to this day.

In this guide, we introduce 14 recommended sightseeing spots in Misato Town. From breathtaking natural landscapes, to historical and cultural treasures, and mystical legends, the area is packed with highlights waiting to be explored!

1. Oseri Waterfall

Located in the Saigō area in central Misato Town, Oseri Waterfall is considered Misato's top power spot and is popular among tourists. The water cascades in three stages down a cliff about 70 meters high, creating a truly dynamic and breathtaking scene. Surrounded by dense primeval forest, the mystical atmosphere makes it feel as if a dragon god (Ryujin) might actually dwell there. You can enjoy different seasonal views—lush greenery in summer and vibrant foliage in autumn.

2. Oseri Waterfall Folktale Museum

Right next to Oseri Waterfall is the Oseri Waterfall Folktale Museum, which showcases local legends related to the falls. Inside the traditionally styled building, you'll find 13 folklore panels that detail ancient tales passed down in Misato Town.

The museum also serves handmade soba noodles made from locally grown buckwheat flour. It’s a recommended spot not only for those interested in folklore but also as a nice place for lunch. If you're visiting Oseri Waterfall, make sure to include the museum in your plans!

3. Ishitoge Lakeland

Ishitoge Lakeland is a comprehensive leisure facility located along the Ōuchihara Dam Lake. It features a variety of attractions such as pools, hot springs, cruising, wakeboarding, athletic playgrounds, and restaurants—perfect for spending a full day enjoying Misato’s natural beauty.

In summer, the pool area is open, making it a family-friendly destination. There are changing rooms available, but make sure to bring your swimsuit and towel. For kids and adults alike, there are play areas including a dragon coaster and suspension bridge. It’s one of Misato’s most popular tourist destinations, and on-site cottages are available if you wish to stay overnight.

4. Kannon Waterfall

Kannon Waterfall is about 30 meters high and is located at the base of Mt. Togayama in the southern part of the Saigō area. It is named after the “33 Kannon statues” that are enshrined nearby. Though smaller than Oseri Waterfall, its graceful and delicate water flow makes it a beautiful and tranquil sightseeing spot.

The area is also part of a nature walking trail, making it perfect for a relaxing hike while enjoying the waterfall and nearby statues.

5. Saigō Shōsōin

Now heading into the Nangō area in southern Misato, one recommended site is the Western Shōsōin. This is a full-scale replica of the famous Shōsōin treasure house at Tōdai-ji Temple in Nara. Built using natural Kiso cypress, the replica was faithfully constructed based on the Imperial Household Agency’s original blueprints, which are usually restricted from public use.

It’s said the replica was built in Misato because the same "Tang Flower Six-Petal Mirror" found in Nara’s Shōsōin was also discovered in this area. Unlike the original in Nara, visitors can view the interior of Misato’s Shōsōin, making it an exceptional cultural experience.

6. Baekje Museum

Located near the Western Shōsōin, the Baekje Museum was built as a symbol of Japan-Korea cultural exchange. The architecture is modeled after a guest house at the ancient Baekje royal palace in Buyeo, South Korea. The building features vivid red, blue, and green colors, painted in a traditional Korean style called “Dancheong.”

Inside, you’ll find precious cultural artifacts and historical documents from the Baekje period. It's a unique opportunity to learn about Korean history and culture while in Japan. Misato Town and Buyeo-eup in Korea have been sister cities since 2009, and they continue to engage in active exchange programs.

7. Kamado Shrine

Founded during the Nara period, Kamado Shrine enshrines figures such as King Jeongga of Baekje and is a famous cultural site in Misato Town. According to legend, Baekje royalty fled to Japan and settled in this area. A sacred mirror, believed to be an heirloom of the royal family, is preserved here as a shrine treasure.

Every 12th lunar month, the shrine hosts the Shiwasu Festival, one of Misato’s three major festivals, themed after the Baekje royal legend. The highlight is the burning of over 20 ceremonial wooden towers (yagura) as welcoming fires—a breathtaking sight to behold.

8. Lovers’ Hill

Lovers’ Hill is a scenic overlook in the Nangō area of Misato Town. At the top of the hill stands a hexagonal pavilion, modeled after Baekhwajeong, a pavilion on Nakhwaam Cliff in Buyeo, Korea.

Here you’ll find the “Bell of Bonds”, a gift symbolizing Japan-Korea friendship. It’s said that couples or families who ring the bell will strengthen their bond. Alongside Mt. Atago in Nobeoka and Sea of Crosses in Hyuga, this is one of Miyazaki’s most beloved romantic destinations.

9. Kijino Lava Gorge

Kijino Lava Gorge is a dramatic canyon located along the upper stream of the Komaru River in the Nangō area. Formed by lava from an eruption about 120 million years ago, the rugged terrain is also known as “Bi-sekigun” (Beautiful Stone Group). The colorful stones—shades of red and green—create a vivid natural landscape.

There’s a nearby campground, making this a popular summer destination filled with nature lovers and adventurers.

10. Kaigon Tō (Kaigon Tower)

Kaigon Tō is a plum orchard located in the Mizushidani area of Misato Town. At an elevation of 600 to 700 meters, the area features around 5,000 plum trees. The best viewing period is mid- to late February, when the white and pink blossoms are in full bloom.

However, this is not a public garden; it’s a working farm where locals grow Nanko plums. Visitors are kindly asked to enjoy the view from outside and not enter the property without permission.

11. Shiino Hydrangea Road

Heading north to the Kitagō area, one highlight is Shiino Ajisai Road in the Shiino district. From mid-June to early July, the roadside bursts into color as over 30,000 hydrangea bushes bloom along a 7-kilometer stretch of town road.

This hydrangea-lined path, combined with terraced rice fields, creates a beautiful landscape. A favorite among photographers, it’s a popular early-summer destination in Misato.

12. Matsugashita Momiji Forest Road

Matsugashita Momiji Forest Road is a famous autumn foliage spot located in the Kohara area of Misato Town. To commemorate the completion of the forest road in 1973 (Showa 48), many Japanese maple trees (momiji) were planted along the route. The best time to visit is mid-November, when the trees turn a brilliant shade of red.

A particularly stunning view awaits at the observation point near the end of the road, offering a panoramic scene of vivid autumn leaves.

13. Nakagoya Astronomical Observatory – Subaru Dome

The Nakagoya Astronomical Observatory – Subaru Dome is situated atop a hill approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. It features a 60 cm Ritchey–Chrétien reflector telescope, said to be the largest of its kind in Kyushu. With a reservation, tourists can experience incredible stargazing through this powerful telescope.

Misato’s Kitagō area is famously known as the “Village of Jizō Under Falling Stars”, and the observatory once won first place in a national Starry Sky Watching Contest. If you're looking to witness a magnificent night sky, this is the perfect spot.

14. Unoma Jizō Statue

Lastly, we introduce the Unoma Jizōson, located at the summit of Mt. Tetsujō in Misato Town’s Kitagō area. This revered Jizō statue was created by the famous monk Gyōki during the Nara period. To reach it, visitors must pass through the Niōmon gate of Zenchō-ji Temple and climb 365 stone steps.

A local legend says that when a great fire once broke out in Edo (present-day Tokyo), this Jizō caused a rainstorm that extinguished the flames. For this reason, it is also known as the “Fire-Quelling Jizō.” Every first lunar month, the Unoma Jizō Festival—one of Misato’s three major festivals—is held here, drawing both locals and tourists.

◎ Summary

Misato Town is packed with attractions—from its rich natural beauty and seasonal landscapes to rare cultural heritage sites. Its mysterious legends and ancient folklore add even more charm and fascination.

If you’re planning a trip to Miyazaki Prefecture, be sure to include Misato Town on your itinerary—you won’t be disappointed!