Mad for Mountains!

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! Continue reading

紅葉狩り Momijigari: Autumn Leaf Viewing in Miyazaki

Wow–October is almost over already! But, where are all the autumn leaves? Those of us from more temperate climates may be thrown off by Miyazaki’s long-lasting summerlike weather, but don’t lose heart! There is a bit of fall color in our sub-tropic prefecture, as long as you know when and where to look for it. 😉

Luckily, Japan has this nifty guide to autumn leaf-viewing (because of course they do). With this guide, you can keep updated on all of the best places for fall foliage in Japan! The most ideal locations for momijigari in Miyazaki are up in the mountains to the north and west of the prefecture. The higher altitudes create a cooler climate that’s the perfect environment for changing colors.

Below are some of Miyazaki’s best momijigari spots, as well as some nearby places in other prefectures. Let us know if you have any recommendations of your own! Continue reading

Fawning Over Fall!

It might be hard to believe, but Fall has arrived here in southern Kyushu.  Some may cry out, “LIES, MAJET! It can’t be fall just yet! I haven’t seen the leaves change one bit!”  Others may groan, “I guess I’ll have to wait till spring to explore the natural beauty of Miyazaki.”  Well, fear not my friends! MAJET is here to help!  Come join us up in northern Miyazaki for MAJET’s Fawning Over Fall event! Continue reading

Miyazaki’s mountains are truly marvelous

Miyazaki’s only autumn colors belong to a variety of subtropical flowers which somehow manage to bloom, and to the trees and foliage which only become slightly less green even in the cold winter months. However, if you were to venture up into the mountains in the west of the prefecture, you would find vibrant patches of vermillion interspersed with swathes of gold gilding the mountainside—along with the usual vast expanse of deep forest greens. Continue reading

Gokase Mountain Retreat

Autumn is upon us, and what better way to enjoy the season than by spending time in nature? While fall colors can be hard to find in Miyazaki, there are some truly gorgeous gems if you know where to look. Sometimes a bit of exploring is all you need to discover someplace magical.

Lucky for you, MAJET has already done the scouting, and we’ve planned an amazing brand new event! See some of Miyazaki’s beautiful autumn leaves from a kayak and then visit a secluded mountain village for an ancient festival. Nature and culture—how can you go wrong?
Continue reading