Shrines

Shiratori Shrine　白鳥神社

The oldest shrine in Ebino. Nestled in the foothills of Ebino Plateau, what this shrine lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty and history. Wood from the surrounding forest is transported across Japan and used in the construction of other shrines, most notably the 東大寺 in Nara, housing the Great Buddha. There are two points of access to the shrine: the upper route by car is most convenient but for the adventurous you can take the lower access by foot, there is ample parking available. For those who enjoy forest bathing or don’t mind a lot of stairs, enter through the lower entrance. 
Location: 白鳥神社 (map) Lower access: (map) 
〒889-4302 宮崎県えびの市末永白鳥
TEL: 0984-35-1111 

Sugawara Shrine   菅原神社

While this shrine is small and very old, it is well-loved by locals and travelers alike. Famous for its large torii gate surrounded by rice fields, check out this shrine for breathtaking views in any season. 
Location: 菅原神社 (map)
〒889-4163 宮崎県えびの市水流574

Nature

Ebino Kougen　えびの高原

This area is full of great hiking trails of all levels of difficulty! Near the visitor center there is a foot bath, or ashiyu, which is perfect for soaking your feet after a long hike. Popular times to visit are in Autumn and Winter, as the fall foliage and pampas grass is very beautiful and the ice skating rink opens when it’s cold enough (usually from January to February). Parking is ¥500 per car. Before going, check the website for volcanic activity or road conditions. Due to volcanic activity some trails may be closed. In the winter season, some roads may be closed to vehicles without snow tires. 
Location: えびの高原 (map)
〒889-4302 宮崎県えびの市末永1495-5
Website (Eco Museum Center)
TEL: 0984-33-3002
Trekking Information: (English)

Ebino Eco Museum Center　えびのエコミュージアム

On Ebino Kougen, the Eco Museum Center provides tons of great information about this area. Inside the center, check out the maps of the region and learn about the animals and geological features you can see in the area. 
Location: えびのエコミュージアム (map)
〒889-4302 宮崎県えびの市末永1495-5
Website 
TEL: 0984-33-3002

Kuruson Gorge Area 

A short drive into the mountains to the north of Ebino will bring you to Kuruson Gorge. The valley was used as a sacred training ground for priests as early as 700 BC and the ruins of the second oldest Zen temple in Japan can be found here. It is said to be the birthplace of Kuruson (Sanskrit : Krakucchanda),one of the seven previous incarnations of Buddha. Today, beautiful spring greenery, fall colors, summer camping, and river swimming are available, as well as sightseeing from nearby bridges. For the fishing enthusiasts, this place must not be missed, though fishing permits are required. Yearly permits cost 3,000 yen and daily permits are 500 yen. 

Locations: 
Kuruson Gorge Park (map)
Kurason Bridge (map) 
Gorge (map) 

Fishing Permits: 立石林業(株) 飯野出張所事務所 (map)  
TEL: 0984-33-0144

Ogura Camera Store   おぐらカメラ店 (map) 
TEL: 0984-33-0378

Bishamon Waterfall　毘沙門の滝

Bishamon is one of Buddhism’s Seven Gods of Good Fortune and is said to have stayed in a nearby temple for a period in the late 1600s. The waters fall approximately 20 meters in total and are complemented by one kilometer of secluded walking trails maintained by community volunteers. The road to Bishamon is an adventure in itself, research and mapping beforehand are recommended as signage is minimal and not always accurate.
Location: 毘沙門の滝 (map)
〒889-4314 宮崎県えびの市大河平
Website
TEL: 0984-35-1111