Main sights
Miyazaki Prefectural Office became famous as a tourist spot when Hideo Higashikokubaru, a national celebrity, became the prefectural governor of Miyazaki.
Miyazaki-jingū, a shrine in the city's centre, is one of Miyazaki's sacred dedications to Japan's first emperor, Jinmu.
Heiwadai Tower or "Peace Tower" (also known as the Hakkō ichiu monument), in the expansive Heiwadai Park, is a must-see for tourists. Originally the "Tower of the Emperor," symbolizing Japanese imperial expansion, it was renamed for peace after the events of World War II.
Aoshima Island and shrine boasts some rare rock formations known as the Devil's Washboard among a peaceful beach setting, and it is a popular relaxation and play destination for locals and travellers alike. The Aoshima Subtropical Botanical Garden is also located nearby and is free to the public, including their greenhouse which features colourful lighting during some summer evenings.
The Tom Watson Golf Course was produced by Tom Watson, an American professional golfer.
Phoenix Zoo is a combination live animal zoo and child-centred amusement park.
The Citizen's Forest is a large park near the Phoenix Zoo. Located on its grounds is the Misogi-ike, Pond of Purification, that is the birthplace of the sun goddess Amaterasu according to legend.
The Ikime Kofun Cluster includes the Ikime-no-mori Yukokan, Activity Centre, where visitors learn the history of the burial mounds and learn about ancient activities.
Kisakihama Beach, Aoshima Beach, and Shirahama Beach are surfing spots within the city limits.
Kaeda Valley is a free public park and natural reserve featuring walking paths and hiking trails (various difficulty levels and estimated times to completion). Kaeda is a forested area with a river running through it.
The Kirishima Sports Complex consists of various athletic facilities, such as running trails, a stadium, tennis courts, an outdoor ropes course, etc. as well as some indoor meeting space. The complex hosts various sports games/matches and events throughout the year, including the Aoshima Taiheiyo Marathon.
Florante Miyazaki is a botanical park that features floral displays and a popular winter lights display.
Birthplace of Yasui Sokken, National Historic Site
Sadowara Castle ruins, National Historic Site
Mukasa Castle ruins, National Historic Site
Motonobaru Site, National Historic Site
Udo Shrine, National Historic Site
Ikime Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Ōjin and Taira no Kagekiyo