Miyazaki is known as the sunniest place of Japan (the original name of Himuka literally means “facing the sun”), so many people think that summer is the best time to visit. However, the autumn can be just as exciting, if you know where to look. 😉
Many of Miyazaki’s hidden gems are tucked away in the mountains to the northwest. Forests boasting beautiful foliage, hidden rivers and waterfalls, excellent hiking, and much more await the intrepid explorer! Here, the towns are small and unique customs are passed on from generation to generation. The locals are friendly and eager to share their experiences with passersby. And lucky for you, MAJET has planned an event to show you all of these wonderful things in a single weekend!
EVENT DETAILS:
The event will take place over the weekend of November 11-12th. There are three different parts; join us for one or all!
Kayaking in the Mountains!
First we’ll head into Gokase, one of the few places in the prefecture with vibrant fall foliage! With the folks from the Gokase Nature School, we will be using their equipment and guides in order to kayak in one of the nearby rivers. Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or your hundredth, you’ll be sure to enjoy the beautiful scenery while spending time with friends outdoors.
Date: Saturday, November 11th
Time: Check-in from 12:00. We will leave at 1:00 sharp, so don’t be late!
Meeting Point: Gokase no Sato (map)
〒882-1203 宮崎県西臼杵郡五ヶ瀬町三ヶ所141-イ
Cost: 5000円 MAJET members, 5500円 non-MAJET members
*Covers rental cost of kayaks, life jackets, paddles, guides and insurance from the Gokase Nature School. We will be kayaking for two to two ½ hours (rough estimate).
What to wear:
Please wear clothes suitable for physical activity. While it may still be warm outside, the water will be cold, so be sure to pack layers—fleece, thermals, Heattek, etc. Waterproof shoes are encouraged. In the event of rain, raincoats and parkas will be provided.
Cabin Party in Gokase
After kayaking, we’ll head back to Gokase no Sato and spend the night in some of their cozy cabins. For dinner, we are organizing a potluck nabe! If everyone brings one ingredient, we’ll all be able to enjoy a delicious meal for a very low cost! Cookware and utensils will be provided. After dinner, we can enjoy games until we tire ourselves out. Topped off with a waffle breakfast on Sunday morning, you won’t want to miss this sleepover! 😉
Date: Saturday, November 11th
Time: We estimate to return from kayaking around 4 or 5pm.
Location: Gokase no Sato (map)
〒882-1203 宮崎県西臼杵郡五ヶ瀬町三ヶ所141-イ
Cost: 2000円 MAJET members, 2500円 non-MAJET members
* If you are not kayaking, you will receive a 500円 discount.
What to bring:
- The cabins will have bedding, but if you’d prefer your own please be sure to bring it.
- Drinks, snacks, and food for breakfast
- 1 Nabe ingredient (we will coordinate this later)
- Games (if you’d like)
Heike Festival in Shiiba
On Sunday morning, we will head out to Shiiba, a tiny mountain village that happens to be the host of the Heike Matsuri, a tradition that has been handed down for over 800 years! The highlight of this festival is Sunday’s parade, which features grand historical costumes and dances. Many of the parade participants are descendants of the clan that ruled this town hundreds of years ago. To learn more about the festival’s history, check out this page! Throughout the town you can enjoy local products and even participate in mochitsuki! Once the festivities wind down, we’ll head on back home.
Date: Sunday, November 12th
Time: Those of us camping will aim to arrive between 10 and 11am. The parade will begin around noon.
Location: Shiiba Village (map)
*There is only one route into town from Gokase. When you are close, traffic cops will direct you where to park. Shuttle buses are available to take you to/from the parking lot.
THE FINE PRINT
You must make your reservation by Wednesday, November 8th via the Google form below. Please indicate which activities you’ll participate in. Also let us know if you are willing to carpool or if you need to get a ride from somebody.
Any RSVPs received after the above deadline will not be taken into consideration. Once you RSVP, you are financially responsible even if you don’t show up. If you cannot attend this event after RSVPing, please contact MAJET as soon as possible.
Please feel free to invite guests! Just remember that each guest must also fill out their own RSVP form to be counted.
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