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A narrow waterway with a waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. 1
A natural rock formation with a water body and dense greenery. 2
A river with kayaks, surrounded by dense green foliage and a waterfall. 3
A waterfall in a lush green forest. 4
A traditional Japanese building with a wooden structure, a tiled roof, and a stone entrance. 5
By Japan Guide Agency
Free cancellation available
Price is $713 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple adult tickets
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 6h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Selective hotel pickup
  • Multiple languages

Overview

  • Step into the heart of Japanese mythology on this private tour of Takachiho, the mountain town where the gods are said to have descended to earth. Travelling in a comfortable private vehicle with your own government-licensed guide, you set the pace throughout the day. Begin at the dramatic Takachiho Gorge, a ravine of columnar volcanic cliffs where the Manai Falls tumble into emerald water. Walk among the towering cedars of Takachiho Shrine, then visit Amano Iwato Shrine and the sacred cave of Amano Yasugawara, where the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu comes alive through your guide's storytelling. Enjoy sweeping views from Kunimigaoka Observatory, famous for its autumn sea of clouds, and sample premium Takachiho wagyu and local specialities at Gamadase Market. With a private guide and vehicle throughout, the itinerary is fully customisable, making it ideal for first-time visitors, families and photographers seeking one of Japan's most spiritual landscapes.

Activity location

  • Takachiho Gorge
    • Mitai,
    • 882-1101, Takachiho-cho, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Takachiho Bus Center
    • Mitai
    • 882-1101, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Japan

Check availability

Van (Up to 7 Pax)

  • Earn $22.98
  • Activity duration is 6 hours6h
    6h
  • English

Van (Up to 7 Pax)
Pickup included

Price details
$766.03 x 1 Adult$766.03
Total
Price is $766.03
Until Mon, Sep 7

Regular Car (Up to 2 Pax)

  • Earn $21.38
  • Activity duration is 6 hours6h
    6h
  • English

Regular Car (Up to 2 Pax)
Pickup included

Price details
$712.66 x 1 Adult$712.66
Total
Price is $712.66
Until Mon, Sep 7

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Private vehicle
  • Inclusions
    Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
  • Inclusions
    Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
  • Exclusions
    You cannot combine multiple tour groups.

Know before you book

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.

Activity itinerary

Takachiho Gorge

  • 1h
Your guide leads you along the dramatic Takachiho Gorge, a V-shaped ravine of columnar volcanic cliffs carved by the Gokase River. Enjoy the iconic views and the option to rent a rowboat near the falls.

Manai Falls

  • 15m
A short walk brings you to the Manai Falls, the symbol of Takachiho Gorge, where water cascades 17 meters down the basalt cliffs. It is one of Japan's most photographed waterfalls and can be admired from the gorge path or by rowboat.

Takachiho Shrine

  • 30m
Takachiho Shrine is an ancient shrine set among towering cedar trees, dedicated to the deities of Japanese mythology. Your guide explains the legends of the gods, the 800-year-old sacred cedar, and the famous pair-tree said to bring good fortune to couples.

Amano Iwato Shrine

  • 40m
Amano Iwato Shrine enshrines the sacred cave where, according to legend, the sun goddess Amaterasu hid herself and plunged the world into darkness. Your guide shares this central myth of Japanese cosmology as you look across the gorge toward the cave.

Amano Yasugawara

  • 20m
A short riverside walk from Amano Iwato Shrine leads to Amano Yasugawara, an atmospheric cavern where the myriad gods are said to have gathered to coax Amaterasu out of hiding. Visitors stack small stone towers here while praying for their wishes to come true.

Kunimigaoka Observatory

  • 30m
Kunimigaoka Observatory sits on a ridge with sweeping panoramic views over the Takachiho basin and surrounding mountains. On clear autumn mornings it is famous for its sea of clouds, and at any time of year it offers a memorable photo stop with your guide.

Takachiho Gamadase Market

  • 30m
At Takachiho Gamadase Market your guide introduces local specialties, from premium Takachiho wagyu beef to fresh produce and souvenirs. It is an ideal stop to sample regional flavors and pick up gifts before continuing the tour. (Meals are at your own expense.)

Takachiho Kagura

  • 30m
Takachiho Yokagura is a traditional sacred dance that re-enacts the myths of the gods, designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Your guide explains the meaning of the masked performances, which depict the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Takachiho Gorge
    • Mitai,
    • 882-1101, Takachiho-cho, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Takachiho Bus Center
    • Mitai
    • 882-1101, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Japan

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