Takachiho | 7 Best Experiences in Kyushu’s Mystical Mountain Town (Beyond the Famous Gorge!)
Most travellers treat Takachiho as a quick pit stop, rushing through its famously gorgeous gorge before moving on.
I wouldn’t make that mistake! This mystical mountain town tucked away in Miyazaki Prefecture won me over and became one of the most memorable stops of my Kyushu adventure.
From drool-worthy eats to traditional tatami rooms that cost a mere fraction of a ryokan stay, Takachiho delivered top-notch experiences alongside breathtaking natural beauty—all with far fewer crowds and much gentler prices than Japan's more famous attractions.
Here are seven experiences in Takachiho that'll make you want to swap a day trip for an overnight stay and gatekeep this gem of a destination.
One. Savour Miyazaki’s soul food, chicken nanban
After a 3-hour bus ride from Kumamoto city, I was famished and eager to try Miyazaki’s signature chicken nanban.
Soon after I entered the casual yet cosy Tomoemaru and punched in my order at a Japanese-only ticket machine (thank you, Google Translate!), the lunch crowd streamed into the waiting room.
Luckily, it wasn’t long before I was seated at the counter—great for catching glimpses of the kitchen action and for somehow feeling less lonely as a solo diner.
Judging by the number of people waiting, this eatery is clearly a local favourite.
The moment my order arrived, I was captivated. Fried chicken glazed in sweet vinegar sauce and topped with creamy, chunky tartar sauce? Yes, please! Crisp, juicy and tangy, it hit all the right notes.
The Chicken Nanban + Beef Croquette set comes with rice, miso soup, and a side salad to balance out the indulgence.
For under ¥1,500, it was both affordable and utterly satisfying. The friendly service was the cherry on top.
While the beef croquette was tasty, it was no match for the star of the show.
WoWa Tip Check Tomemaru’s website for their latest opening hours (bookings are not required) and go early to avoid a long queue.
Two. Feel the sacred power of Amanoiwato Shrine
With my belly stuffed, I caught the public bus from the town’s bus centre to one of Japan's most mythologically significant sites.
As the bus cruised past rice paddy fields and rolling mountains, I felt far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Scenic views from the bus window. Remember to bring coins for the fare!
Amanoiwato Shrine is dedicated to the legendary sacred cave where the sun goddess hid after a spat with her brother, plunging the world into darkness until other gods lured her out with music and dancing.
The sole way to see this cave, nestled in a cliff across the river gorge, is from afar (a usually off-limits worship hall) during the shrine’s free guided tour. The priest-led tour is in Japanese only, but I tagged along anyway.
Gateway to one of Japan's most mythologically significant sites.
The true highlight for me, though, was Amanoyasukawara—another hallowed cave just a short stroll away through a shop-lined street and along picturesque riverside paths.
This renowned 'power spot' is said to be where 8 million(!) gods gathered to discuss how to lure the sun goddess out of hiding.
Certainly one of the most unique shrines I’ve ever visited.
Stepping into this large natural cave, set against lush greenery and flowing water, felt surreal. I could feel a sense of ancient spirituality even while sharing it with other curious travellers.
Adding to the mystical vibes, the cave floor was almost entirely filled with stacks of stones by wish-making visitors. Yep, I followed suit!
May all our wishes come true.
WoWa Tip Guided tours to view Amanoiwato (photos/videos are not permitted) typically run every 30 mins, 9-5pm; bookings are not required, just wait at the rest area. Find official info here.
Three. Sleep like locals in tatami rooms at unbeatable prices
After soaking in the spiritual energy, it was time to check into my accommodation. Traveling solo on a budget, I felt lucky to snag a room at B&B Ukigumo, a family-run bed & breakfast that offers a winning combo of prime location, traditional Japanese style, and modern essentials.
At ¥5,700 (~A$62) for one person, it felt almost too good to be true!
My jaw honestly dropped as I entered the room—it was more charming than I’d imagined.
For that unbeatable price, I got a calming space with tatami flooring, sliding shoji panels, and an ensuite bathroom.
There’s even a sun room with large windows that reveal expansive mountain views. It was a ‘pinch me’ moment as afternoon light streamed in and bathed the room in a warm glow.
With a room like this, I was tempted to sleep in and enjoy the tranquility.
The B&B is centrally located near the town’s main street, a short walk from the renowned gorge, and mere minutes from Takachiho Shrine (which made heading back after the nightly performance held there less daunting).
Everything else I needed for a fuss-free stay was covered, including luggage storage, a simple breakfast of boiled eggs and toast, and morning coffee. The owner spoke great English too!
The unassuming exterior conceals rooms that punch well above their price point.
WoWa Tip The B&B releases bookings only about 2 months ahead and they get snapped up quickly—book asap, especially if you wish to secure rooms with an ensuite and mountain views. Find out more about the nearby performance, Takachiho Kagura, here.
Four. Take in the drama of Takachiho Gorge from within & above
Bright and early, I headed down a windy road to Takachiho Gorge for a sold-out boating experience in the heart of the river gorge.
After a speedy rowing crash course from a staff member, I was handed the oars and left to my own (questionable) devices.
I was buzzing with excitement as I arrived in at the boat rental’s reception
Cue the chaos... turns out I have zero aptitude for rowing. I spent precious time ping-ponging against the gorge walls, getting splashed by tumbling streams, and unwittingly bumping into other boats. Somewhere out there, I'm probably starring in someone's social media as the world's worst rower!
Eventually, I settled into a rhythm and edged closer to Manai Falls to admire silvery veils of water cascading down dramatic rock faces.
This front row view of nature’s wild beauty made my initial struggles worthwhile.
After my somewhat chaotic adventure, I walked up to the overlooking path for a fresh perspective. The scene of turquoise water winding between columnar basalt cliffs—remnants of ancient volcanic activity—took my breath away!
Whether up close or from above, the views are mesmerising.
Five. Try your hand at a floating noodle bar
While wandering the nearby shops, I spotted a restaurant just opening for the day. My heart leapt when I realised they specialise in nagashi somen (‘flowing noodles’), the elusive dish I'd been yearning for since missing my chance in Kyoto.
It turns out I’d stumbled upon Chiho-no-ie, said by some sources to be where nagashi somen originated. What a chance encounter!
The quaint exterior drew my attention, and I was hooked once I saw their somen speciality.
For the uninitiated, this unique dining experience involves catching bundles of thin wheat noodles as they flow down bamboo chutes in pristine water from Tamatare Falls.
I intercepted the portions as they glided by, then dipped them into a savoury dashi-based sauce. Traditionally a summer dish to beat the heat, it's part meal, part game!
Hanging lanterns above bamboo chutes create an atmospheric dining setting.
Was it slightly overpriced for plain noodles? Probably. Did the fun and novelty make up for it? Absolutely.
No worries if you miss a catch too—it’ll be collected in a basket at the end of the chute (guilty as charged for accidentally letting a few strands slip past).
Success! Self-caught noodles tasted even better.
WoWa Tip If you're bothered by double dipping of chopsticks, arrive at opening (no booking needed); I was first at one side of the table and finished before others were served.
Six. Treat yourself to award-winning Miyazaki wagyu that’s tender beyond belief
The somen was merely the appetiser, and I knew exactly what lunch had in store: Takachiho wagyu.
It isn’t just any Japanese beef. Raised in the nearby mountainous region on high-quality wild grass and spring water from Mt Sobo, it’s a premium regional variety of Miyazaki wagyu that’s won Japan’s top honours multiple times.
I made my way to Nagomi, which is operated directly by JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperatives), where I could taste this prized yet wallet-friendly beef right from the source.
I was relieved there wasn’t a queue close to noon, and ordering in English via the iPad was a breeze.
Since the pricier fillet cut had already sold out, I went for the modest 100g sirloin steak set (it was a small win for my budget, though I’m regretting not going for the 150g/200g portion now!)
Before long, beautifully marbled beef arrived with fresh vegetables, miso soup, and rice. The best part? The beef comes rare with a tiny circular grill plate, so I could sizzle and sear each buttery piece exactly to my liking.
My dreamy wagyu steak meal, elevated with DIY grilling.
I was practically swooning (not exaggerating!) as I savoured flavourful, melt-in-your-mouth slices with the complementary sauces—citrusy yuzu pepper, punchy wasabi, and classic soy. The sides provided a welcome palate cleanser from the richness, and I washed everything down with a refreshing, locally-brewed pilsner.
For ¥3,600 (~A$38), this decadently flavourful steak set delivered exceptional value. I felt fortunate to indulge in world-class beef without a luxury price tag!
Perhaps a tad oily for some, but I found it absolutely delicious!
WoWa Tip Prices at lunch are notably lower than dinner, and bookings are not required then (check their website for the latest opening hours). After your feast, browse the adjacent Gamadase Market for local goodies; I highly recommend the Kuri beer, a smooth chestnut ale that’s become my favourite Japanese craft beer!
Seven. Relax with pillowy baked goods & freshly brewed coffee
With time to spare before my bus departed for my next destination (Aso!), I ventured to Uipan, a bakery tucked away from the main tourist attractions. I needed my caffeine fix, and there's always room for dessert.
Wouldn’t you be charmed by this adorable country house bakery too?
Inside, window seating provided a lovely nook for watching the world go by with a hot drink in hand. The chalkboard with handwritten daily specials and what seemed like a heartfelt poem also added to the comfy, homey vibes.
Despite the limited afternoon selection, I still had a hard time deciding which to choose from their tempting handcrafted creations. Being polite, I let the gentleman behind me go ahead, and he promptly chose one of the pastries I'd been eyeing (darn!)
Decisions, decisions. They were all reasonably priced too.
A lemon brioche loaf, as well as a rosemary focaccia to go, ended up being my picks. Both turned out to be pillowy soft and impressively fragrant!
I munched on a slice of brioche whilst sipping freshly brewed coffee from a mug with a handle so large I could probably fit my whole hand through it. Relaxing at this delightfully quirky cafe was a wonderful way to wrap up my Takachiho adventure.
Final treats before the next stop of my Kyushu adventure.
WoWa Tip They have limited opening days, so check their Instagram for the latest opening hours and try to get there early for the best selection—everything was sold out by the time I left around 2:15 pm.
In a nutshell: 7 Best Experiences in Takachiho, Kyushu’s mystical mountain town
Savour Miyazaki's soul food, chicken nanban at Tomoemaru.
Feel the sacred power of Amanoiwato Shrine and make wishes at the mystical Amanoyasugawara.
Sleep like locals in tatami rooms at B&B Ukigumo at unbeatable prices.
Take in the drama of Takachiho Gorge from a row boat and the scenic walking path above.
Try your hand at catching noodles at Chiho-no-ie, often considered to be the birthplace of nagashi somen.
Treat yourself to award-winning Miyazaki wagyu at Nagomi without luxury prices.
Relax with pillowy baked goods & freshly brewed coffee at Uipan to wrap up your Takachiho adventure/
WoWa Tip Visit the tourist association’s website for a helpful map and brochure in English.
Thank you for dropping by!
Thanks for dropping by my website! Your support means a lot and encourages me to keep creating and sharing helpful content. Find more value-packed posts on my Japan adventures here or @worthy.wanderlust.