Cape Toi
Come to Cape Toi for wild horses, hidden mountain shrines, and sweeping ocean views. Located at the southernmost part of Miyazaki’s sprawling coast, Cape Toi offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors.
One of Cape Toi’s most famous attractions is the presence of wild horses known as Misaki-uma. These horses roam freely in the area and provide a picturesque sight for visitors. As you arrive at Cape Toi, you will be greeted by these majestic creatures, who often come close to humans without any fear. It is a rare opportunity to witness such wild beauty up close and personal. However, it is important to note that touching or feeding the horses is prohibited to ensure their well-being and safety.
In addition to the wild horses, Cape Toi also boasts a stunning natural landscape. The rugged volcanic coastal views serve as a dramatic backdrop to the grazing horses. The vivid blue sky combined with the lush green grass of the hills creates a mesmerizing sight. Visitors are encouraged to take the time to appreciate the beauty of nature and capture stunning photographs of this unique scenery.
For panoramic views of the area, a visit to the Cape Toi Lighthouse is a must. This impressive landmark not only acts as a warning beacon for ocean vessels but also provides breathtaking views of the vast rocky coastline and the open sea. Standing at the lighthouse, you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding landscape. The combination of the crashing waves, the rugged cliffs, and the endless expanse of the ocean creates a sense of tranquility and wonder.
To delve deeper into Cape Toi’s history and culture, a visit to the Cape Toi Tourist Exchange Center Pakalapaka is recommended. Miyazaki, the region where Cape Toi is located, has a significant place in japan‘s history. It was once a samurai stronghold, and legend has it that the horses of Cape Toi were left abandoned by their samurai masters some 300 years ago. At the tourist center, you can learn more about this fascinating story and gain insights into the local culture and traditions.
Another highlight of Cape Toi is the Misaki-jinja Shrine, which is nestled on the mountain face of Cape Toi. Built in the year 708, this ancient shrine is surrounded by thousands of cycad trees, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. The vibrant red color of the shrine stands in stark contrast to the lush greenery of the surrounding trees, making it a sight to behold. While access to the shrine itself is currently prohibited due to recent mudslides, visitors can still reach the foot of the mountain and admire the shrine from a distance.
Cape Toi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wildlife encounters. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cape Toi has something to offer for everyone. The stunning landscapes, the fascinating history, and the opportunity to witness wild horses in their natural habitat make Cape Toi a destination worth exploring.
To reach Cape Toi, there are several transportation options available. If you are coming from Tokyo, you can take a plane and car, which takes a little over 4 hours, or a train, which takes about 12 hours. From Osaka, the travel time is shorter, with a plane and car journey taking approximately 3.5 hours and a train journey taking around 10.5 hours. If you choose to fly, you can depart from either Tokyo’s Haneda Airport or Osaka’s Kansai International Airport and arrive at Miyazaki Airport. From there, it is a 2-hour drive to Cape Toi. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Kokura Station, which takes about 4.5 hours from Tokyo Station or 2.5 hours from Shin-Osaka Station. From Kokura Station, you can transfer to the JR Nippo Line and travel to Miyazaki Station, which takes approximately 5 hours. From Miyazaki Station, you can then change to the JR Nichinan Line and reach Kushima Station in another 3 hours. Finally, you can drive about 30 minutes from Kushima Station to Cape Toi.
In conclusion, Cape Toi offers a captivating experience for visitors with its wild horses, hidden mountain shrines, and sweeping ocean views. The opportunity to witness the beauty of nature, learn about the region’s history, and immerse oneself in the serenity of the surroundings make Cape Toi a destination like no other. Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cape Toi has something to offer for everyone. Plan your visit to Cape Toi and embark on a journey of discovery and wonder in the southernmost part of Miyazaki’s coast.
Address And Maps Location:
Kushima-shi, Miyazaki-ken
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