Overview
This tour is designed for travelers who arrive at Hososhima Port (Hyuga) by cruise ship and want to explore Takachiho, one of Japan's most sacred and scenic destinations. We pick you up at the port or a nearby hotel with a private vehicle and a government-licensed multilingual guide - a comfortable, efficient way to reach this beautiful inland region. Enjoy a 8-hour private tour of the spectacular Takachiho Gorge, a V-shaped ravine of towering basalt cliffs and emerald waters formed by ancient lava from Mt. Aso. Walk the gorge path, admire the 17-meter Manai Falls, and (seasonally) glide beneath the cliffs in a rowboat. Takachiho is also the cradle of Japanese mythology. Visit Takachiho Shrine among ancient cedars and Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the sun goddess Amaterasu, plus Kunimigaoka, famous for its early-morning seas of clouds. Choose 3-4 sites from the itinerary and your guide will tailor the day to your interests.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Private vehicle
- Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'Itinerary' list
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
What's Not Included
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Guide Entry fees for sights not listed on the itinerary
- Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Takachiho Gorge is a stunning V-shaped ravine formed by volcanic lava from Mt. Aso, with sheer cliffs rising up to 100 meters. The highlight is the 17-meter Manai Falls cascading into the emerald river. Your guide will accompany you along the walking path with photo stops. An optional rowboat ride may also be available seasonally. Rowboat tickets are not included in the tour price.
Stop 2
Takachiho Shrine is a 1,900-year-old shrine set among towering cedar trees, dedicated to the deities of the area's rich mythology. Don't miss the sacred married cedar trees said to bring good fortune to couples. Your guide will explain the legends behind the shrine and the famous nightly Yokagura sacred dance performed here.
Stop 3
Amano Iwato Shrine is dedicated to the famous myth of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is said to have hidden in a cave here, plunging the world into darkness. Across the river is Amano Yasugawara, a sacred cave where the gods are said to have gathered. Your guide will share the captivating mythology behind this spiritual site.
Stop 4
Kunimigaoka is a scenic hilltop lookout offering sweeping 360-degree views over the Takachiho basin and surrounding mountains. It is especially famous for the spectacular "unkai" (sea of clouds) that fills the valley on clear, cool autumn mornings. Your guide will bring you to the best viewpoints for photos of this breathtaking landscape.
Stop 5
Manai Falls is the iconic 17-meter waterfall that plunges directly into the Takachiho Gorge, regarded as one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls. Viewed from the gorge's pedestrian bridge or from a rowboat below, it is the signature image of Takachiho. Your guide will lead you to the best vantage points for unforgettable photos.
Stop 6
Amano Yasugawara is a sacred riverside cave near Amano Iwato Shrine, where the myriad gods are said to have gathered to discuss how to lure the sun goddess out of hiding. Visitors stack small stones here while making a wish, creating a mystical, atmospheric scene. Your guide will share the legend as you walk the short path along the clear river.
Stop 7
Kushifuru Shrine is a quiet, atmospheric shrine on the mountain said to be where Ninigi-no-Mikoto, grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended from heaven to earth - one of the most important sites in Japanese creation mythology. Surrounded by giant cedar trees, it offers a peaceful, spiritual stop away from the crowds, where your guide explains the legends of the gods.
Stop 8
This is the former Amano-Iwato Station on the old Takachiho Railway line, now home to the popular "Amaterasu Railway" grand super cart that runs along the historic tracks and across the lofty Takachiho Railway Bridge, one of Japan's highest. It offers thrilling views high above the valley - a fun, scenic stop your guide can include depending on time and operating schedule.
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.