A healing green road embraced by Kirishima Island! 6 Ebino and Miyakonojo areas in Miyazaki Prefecture

Hello, I am Tetsuma Photographer, a photographer who loves traveling in Kyushu ! I'm Tetsuma Photographer, a photographer who loves traveling in Kyushu! In this 25th issue, we will introduce recommended touring spots in the Ebino and Miyakonojo area! The Ebino area in Miyazaki Prefecture is one of the most popular areas for Kyushu touring, with some of the best winding roads in Kyushu, and the contrast between the volcanic fumes of Mount Io-zan and the blue sky is absolutely beautiful.

1. Ashiyu no Eki Ebino Kogen (Footbath Station), located at an elevation of 1,200 meters

Ebino Highlands is located in the center of Kirishima Kinko Bay National Park, a beautiful summer resort area designated as Japan's first national park. The plateau, which stretches at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, is a spectacular area created by the rich nature of the four seasons and volcanic activity! *Some roads may be closed or restricted depending on the eruption warning level of the volcano. We recommend checking the latest traffic information and volcano information from the Japan Meteorological Agency.

The sight of Mount Io-zan, an active volcano that continues to be active today, billowing smoke is breathtaking, and you can feel the energy of the earth!

There is a free private parking lot, a tourist information center and rest area on the first floor, and a café on the second floor where you can relax.

Take a soak in the footbath at Ashiyu no Eki Ebino Kogen and relax after a tiring day of touring!

2. Actually the deepest crater lake in Japan! Miike

Miike, which straddles Miyakonojo City and Takahara Town in Miyazaki Prefecture, is a beautiful crater lake in Kirishima Kinko Bay National Park. Nearby is Kirishima Higashi Shrine, which overlooks Takachiho Peak, the site of the descent of the grandchildren, and Miike itself has long been an object of worship.

With a diameter of about 1 km and a circumference of about 4 km, it is said to be the deepest crater lake in Japan, with a depth of about 103 meters. This is also the lake where I used to come to fish for black bass when I was in junior high school.

Kirishima Higashi Shrine, a power spot overlooking Takachiho's peak, is another spot not to be missed!

3. A pleasant ride through a green tunnel! Kirishima Bird Line

Kirishima Bird Line is the nickname of a scenic touring course that runs around the Kirishima mountain range, which straddles Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures. The name mainly refers to a section of National Route 223 (from Takahara Town, Miyazaki Prefecture to Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture) and the surrounding prefectural roads. *Some roads may be closed or regulated depending on the eruption warning level of the volcano. It is recommended to check the latest traffic information and volcano information from the Japan Meteorological Agency.

This winding road is popular with riders because it is a pleasant road with moderate curves.

The Oike Observatory, located halfway along the Kirishima Bird Line, offers a panoramic view of Takachiho's peaks and the Oike pond.

4. A gateway to another world? Mizonokuchi Cave

Mizonokuchi Cave is a very mysterious natural cave that was created by thousands of years of erosion of the Shirasu Plateau by the spring water from the Kirishima Mountains. In recent years, its popularity as a "power spot that can be seen" has skyrocketed, especially on SNS, and in 2021 it was designated as a national natural monument. In addition to the traces of life in the Jomon period that remain in the cave, there is also a mysterious legend that says, "When a dog was released into the cave, it came out to Takachiho peak on Mt.

The cave, which measures 14.6 meters across, 6.4 meters high, and 209.5 meters in total length at least as far as has been surveyed, is very mysterious.

5. Sekinoo Falls, home to one of the world's largest groups of potholes

The greatest attraction of this famous waterfall, which has been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, is not only the powerful waterfall itself, but also the unique topography of the world's largest "cluster of potholes" that stretches upstream.

A suspension bridge crosses right in front of the waterfall, providing a spectacular spot to feel the roar and negative ions up close.

The "Otaki Falls," a 40-meter wide, 18-meter drop that flows down in a mighty downpour, is a sight to behold.

This mysterious geosite was formed when the bedrock from a volcanic activity about 340,000 years ago was carved into thousands of round holes (potholes) by the river flow.

6. Kasumi Shrine, where you can see a white snake that brings you happiness

Kasumi Shrine in Takahara-cho, Miyazaki Prefecture, has long been a popular power spot for worshippers from inside and outside the prefecture. It is especially known for the legend of "Hakuseru-sama" (White Snake) and the spectacular view from the shrine grounds.

The shrine has also been called "Kasumi Gongen" since ancient times and is said to bring blessings for agriculture, livestock breeding, disease, good luck, and prosperous business.

From the observatory, visitors can enjoy an exhilarating view of the Kirishima mountain range and the vast basin.

Because it sits at the top of the mountain, you will need to climb several hundred stone steps.

A healing green road embraced by Kirishima! 6 Ebino and Miyakonojo areas in Miyazaki Prefecture Go to Gallery (14)