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Manai Falls

宮崎県

4.6

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Japan's 100 Famous Waterfalls includes this famous waterfall

This waterfall, designated as a natural monument of the country, is said to be the place where the heavenly grandson descended and is popular as a power spot. In addition, you can explore the mystical Takachiho Gorge, where Manai Falls flows, by boat, making it a recommended spot for families and dates!

Features & How to Enjoy

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Highlights

Point 1

Feel the Majesty of Nature!

The Takachiho Gorge stretches for 7 km with steep cliffs and valleys. Among them, the "Manai Falls" that flows down from a height of 17m is a breathtaking sight that allows you to feel the power and grand energy of nature. The surrounding cliffs, which appear to be lined with giant columnar rocks, are called "columnar joints" and are said to have been formed by lava that flowed out when Mt. Aso erupted long ago. The mystical scenery, like "nature's art," the emerald green water, the lush greenery, and the power of the earth are sure to heal you.

Point 2

Take a leisurely stroll on the promenade and explore

Near Manai Falls, a promenade has been developed. The course is about 20 minutes one way, and you can enjoy a casual hike while enjoying the rich nature! Along the way, there is an observation deck called "Takimi-dai," so it's recommended to take pictures of Manai Falls here! There are also several attractions such as bridges like "Yarihito Bridge" and "Kamibashi," "Onokoro Pond" where carp and sturgeon swim, and the "Oni no Chikara-ishi" rock with a legend, so be sure to check them out.

Point 3

Get Close to the Powerful Waterfall by Boat!

When it comes to the specialty of Takachiho Gorge, it's the hand-rowed boats! You can see a dynamic waterfall view from the water that's different from the promenade. Take pictures of the powerful waterfall, or get close and feel the abundant negative ions in the mist while enjoying a leisurely stroll on the water. The boats can be rented for 30 minutes at the boarding area located down the stairs from the first Oshioi parking lot, and can accommodate one to three people. It's so popular that during the season, there may be a wait of several hours, so it's a good idea to visit early in the morning or make an online reservation from the official website to avoid the crowds! Please be sure to check the operating information as there may be cancellations due to weather conditions such as rising water levels or approaching typhoons.

Point 4

Beautifully Lit Waterfall at Night!

From 6pm to 10pm, the Kurokawa Valley and Manai Falls in Takachiho Gorge are illuminated, creating a fantastic and colorful world. While boats are not available at night, the view from the promenade is truly stunning and has been recognized as a "Japanese Night View Heritage". It's highly recommended for couples on a romantic evening stroll. This event used to be limited to summer, but in recent years, it has also been held in autumn and winter. The collaboration between the autumn leaves and the illumination is especially worth seeing!

Point 5

A Stage of Mythology!

Manai Falls, which is also a stage of the mythology "Descent of the Heavenly Grandson," is famous as a spiritual power spot with a mystical atmosphere. In ancient times, the grandson of Amaterasu Omikami, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, descended onto "Takachiho," where there was no water, and ordered the god Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Mikoto to bring the seed of water to the ground. It is said that this seed of water became "Ama-no-Manai" and sprang up as a spring, flowing down as "Manai Falls." This is truly the strongest waterfall, imbued with the power of the gods! In fact, there is also a spot nearby called "Tenmanai," where the holy water springs up. If you have time, why not go see it together?

Point 6

Explore Other Legendary Spots in the Area!

In addition to "Amaterasuminai," there are many popular spots in the area that have become the setting for myths and legends, such as "Takachiho Shrine," "Kunimigaoka Mountain," "Ama-no-Iwato Shrine," and "Amano Yasugawara." All of these places are within a 5-20 minute drive from the Manai Falls, so you can enjoy a legendary mythological tour as well! In addition, within the promenade of the Takachiho Gorge, you can find the "Onihachi no Chikarashi" stone, which is said to have been thrown by demons to show off their strength, and the "Tsukigata," which is said to have been carved as an apology by Susanoo no Mikoto for hiding Amaterasu Omikami. Be sure to find them!

Point 7

The Birthplace of Flowing Noodles: Original Shop

画像引用：千穂の家

Did you know that Takachiho Gorge is the birthplace of flowing noodles? At the entrance of the Takachiho Gorge walking course, there is a restaurant called "Chiho no Ie," which is the shop that invented flowing noodles and is very popular among tourists! The water used to flow the noodles is cold and fresh because it is drawn from the clear water of the nearby Tamadare Falls. The smooth and slippery noodles are so delicious that you could eat them endlessly! If you've come all the way to visit the Manai Falls, why not stop by for lunch on your way back from sightseeing?

Access

Rent a Car from Kumamoto Airport to Get There!

Mana Falls is located in an area surrounded by rich natural mountains, closer to Kumamoto than other parts of Miyazaki Prefecture. If you're coming from afar by plane, it's easier to get there from Kumamoto Airport than Miyazaki Airport. Since there is no train station near the waterfall, you'll need to take a rental car or bus from the airport. During the tourist season, there may be long lines at the bus stop, and there are many popular tourist spots around Takachiho Gorge, which is why renting a car is definitely more convenient if you want to visit other spots as well! It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Kumamoto Airport, and you can get there by local roads only, which is also cost-effective!

Parking

Choose a Parking Lot According to Your Purpose!

There are mainly three parking lots around Takachiho Gorge. The most recommended one is a paid parking lot called "Mishioi Parking Lot," which is the closest to the Manai Falls and the boat landing, making it convenient for sightseeing! However, as it is the most popular, it tends to fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. If it's difficult to get a spot, try going early in the morning or choosing another parking lot, such as "Araragi Parking Lot," which is paid and takes about 15 minutes to walk to the falls on a promenade, or "The Third Bridge Parking Lot," which is free and takes about 20-30 minutes to walk to the falls on a promenade. You can enjoy a leisurely hike while enjoying nature and avoid the crowds while saving money! In addition, there are several temporary parking lots available on crowded days, so it's a good idea to choose a parking lot according to your own travel plan.

Basic Information

	Address	Mita'i, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki 882-1101
	Business Hours	N/A
	TEL	0982-73-1213
	Web Site	https://www.town-takachiho.jp/top/kanko_bunka/kanko_supotto/781.html

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