Miyazaki is a shining jewel on Japan’s Kyushu island, offering a mix of natural beauty, mythic history, and lively local culture. Unlike more crowded destinations, Miyazaki’s wide beaches, lush landscapes, and tranquil hot springs make it the perfect place for authentic, hands-on experiences. We especially love the surfing and SUP lessons at Kengoria Surf Academy for their friendly, professional approach, and the 2-day Takachiho & Beppu tour for a deep dive into the region’s legendary sites and steaming onsen towns. For travelers with limited time, the Kyushu 9-hour day trip offers a swift but comprehensive taste of Miyazaki’s stunning coast and cultural highlights.
This guide rounds up the top three tours in Miyazaki, so you can pick the perfect experience—whether you want to ride the waves, explore mythic landscapes, or enjoy a private day trip. Each offers a different way to connect with local scenery and traditions.
1. Miyazaki: Surfing & SUP Lesson with Equipment Rental
At number one, this surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) lesson provides beginners with all the gear—board, wetsuit, and insurance—and a professional instructor to ensure safety and fun. The lesson takes place at Kengoria Surf Academy, known for its friendly vibe and patient teaching staff. It’s perfect if you’ve always wanted to experience the thrill of catching a wave but are unsure how to start.
What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on safety and comfort. The small-group setting means more personalized attention, and the inclusion of insurance offers peace of mind. The instructor will guide you through the basics, helping you stand up and ride a wave, or paddle along the coast if you prefer a more relaxing experience. The price of $135 per person is reasonable considering all equipment and instruction are included, making it an excellent value for anyone wanting a hands-on, active introduction to Miyazaki’s coastal life.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a fun, accessible way to connect with Miyazaki’s sea, this beginner-friendly lesson is a top choice.
$135 per person
2. 2 Day Tours: TAKACHIHO & BEPPU, YUFUIN, KOKONOE from Fukuoka
For those wanting a deeper cultural and scenic experience, this two-day guided tour from Fukuoka hits the mark. At $2,703 for a group of up to 20, it offers a comprehensive look at some of Kyushu’s most iconic sites. The tour includes visits to Takachiho with its mythic shrines dedicated to gods from Japanese mythology, and the famous Beppu Onsen, a town renowned for its steaming hot springs.
What makes this tour special is the blend of nature, myth, and relaxation. You’ll walk Yunotsubo Street in Yufu, a lively hot spring town with charming shops and local cuisine, and marvel at the KOKONOE bridge, the highest suspension footbridge in Japan. The guided aspect means you’ll get historical context and local insights, enriching your experience far beyond a typical sightseeing trip. The length and logistics suit travelers looking for a structured, immersive experience of Kyushu’s diverse attractions.
Bottom line: This multi-faceted tour is perfect if you seek a well-rounded, cultural journey through Miyazaki’s most legendary and relaxing spots.
$2,703 per group up to 20
3. Kyushu 9-hour chartered day trip – Miyazaki
If time is tight but you still want a meaningful look at Miyazaki, this private 9-hour day trip offers a tailored experience. For $948 per group up to nine people, a guide will take you around Miyazaki’s beautiful Nichinan Coast, known for its dramatic cliffs, scenic drives, and natural beauty. You also get a taste of Miyazaki’s mythical heritage and high-quality local fruits.
This tour is flexible, meaning your guide can adapt the itinerary to include your interests—be it the rugged coastline, local markets, or cultural sites. It’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate, custom experience without the fuss of larger group tours. The length of the trip allows enough time to see multiple highlights without feeling rushed, making it a convenient choice for a day trip from nearby cities or accommodations.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, flexible way to explore Miyazaki’s scenic coast and cultural atmosphere within a single day.
$948 per group up to 9
How to Choose Your Miyazaki Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your priorities—budget, time, and interests. If you’re eager to try surfing or SUP, the first tour offers beginner-friendly lessons with all gear included. For those wanting a comprehensive cultural overview, the 2-day Takachiho & Beppu tour provides a deeper dive into mythology, hot springs, and local life. If your schedule is tight but craving a personalized, scenic adventure, the Kyushu 9-hour trip is a great fit.
Think about your fitness level and the kind of experience you want—whether it’s active, cultural, or scenic. Booking early, especially for popular tours like the two-day Kyushu excursion or private day trips, helps ensure your preferred dates are available. Also, consider supplementing your tour with local meals or additional sightseeing, like exploring Miyazaki’s renowned beaches or trying fresh local fruits.
Miyazaki offers a broad array of tours that showcase its natural beauty, mythic past, and lively culture. Whether you’re catching your first wave, exploring legendary landscapes, or enjoying a private coastal drive, there’s an experience for every traveler. For an active start, the surfing lesson is hard to beat; for a culture, the two-day regional tour offers depth; and for a quick but personalized visit, the 9-hour day trip hits the spot. Book early and enjoy your adventure in this vibrant, mythic part of Japan.