Dating back to mythical times, Miyazaki 2-chome whispers tales of ancient gods. The area was once known as “Hyuga no Kuni.” It means “the country that faces the sun.” Even today, Miyazaki is known for its sunrises.
Miyazaki 2-chome is part of Miyazaki Prefecture. Over 75 percent of the mountainous prefecture is forests. Miyazaki has earned its reputation as a land of nature.
Miyazaki plays a vital role in ancient Japanese history and myths. The legendary Heavenly Cave is supposedly located in modern-day Miyazaki. The sun goddess Amaterasu once secluded herself there. The sacred site is off-limits to tourists. You can still see it from Amanoiwato Shrine.
Amaterasu’s grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, came down to Earth. He became the progenitor of Japan’s Imperial Family. He first landed on Mount Takachiho-no-mine in Miyazaki. Other sources say Ninigi descended onto Kushifuru Peak. The Kushifuru Shrine is dedicated to the deity.
Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto is also featured in these myths. She is the goddess of mirth. She invented the traditional Japanese dance of Kagura. Miyazaki’s Aratate Shrine stands where the goddess and her husband lived after marrying.
Miyazaki is closely connected to Emperor Jimmu. He was Japan’s first emperor. The name “Miyazaki” may come from “miya.” It means imperial palace. The first palace may have been in this part of Kyushu.
Between the 4th and 6th centuries, many burial mounds were built. They served as resting places for Japan’s first rulers. Most are at the Saitobaru Burial Mounds. It covers 58 hectares. It contains 319 tombs. Osahozuka and Mesahozuka are regarded as imperial mausoleums. The Nyutabaru Kofun Group has 197 burial mounds. They have proven an invaluable source of haniwa. These are ritual terracotta clay figures.
Large parts of Kyushu were a battleground. The Ito and Shimadzu clans fought for domination. Their conflicts led to castle construction across Miyazaki. This happened between the 14th and 16th centuries.
Many castles have been left in ruins. Their histories are often similar. A castle would be built by one clan. Then it would be seized by another. It would be won back and lost again. The remains of these fortifications are Japan’s bloody history carved into Miyazaki’s landscapes.
Miyazaki Prefecture emerged in 1883 during the Meiji Period. Since then, it has given birth to many pioneers. They spread the name of their home prefecture throughout Japan. Yukichi Goto was a trailblazer of private aviation. He was the first Japanese person to fly around the country. He and other heroes have been immortalized as bronze statues. They can be found at the Miyazaki Prefecture General Culture Park.
Miyazaki City is the capital of Miyazaki Prefecture. It has a population around 400,000. Miyazaki is located at the southern end of the Miyazaki Plain. The Oyodo River flows through the center. The Hyūga Sea borders it to the east.
Miyazaki has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cool. The city is prone to typhoons during the summer.
Miyazaki is primarily a regional commercial center. Eastern Miyazaki is designated as the “Miyazaki SUN Technopolis area.” There is no large-scale industry in Miyazaki City. The city is working to attract the information industry. Rural parts of the city are still agricultural. Tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are cultivated. There are also food processing factories.
Miyazaki is a place where ancient myths meet modern life. The area invites you to explore its history. Its natural beauty promises a unique Japanese experience.