Takachiho Gorge Day Trip (from Fukuoka)
- Takachiho boat rides are arranged by family, so you can enjoy your own time undisturbed and have more fun
- Enjoy the highlights of both Miyazaki and Kumamoto in a single trip
- Walk through Takachiho Gorge, formed after an eruption of nearby Mt. Aso over 100,000 years ago
- Optionally ride the Amaterasu Railway Grand Super Cart on your own and enjoy magnificent views from the 105m-high railway
- Other recommended route: [Optional Takachiho Boat] Kyushu Day Tour | Mt. Aso, Kusasenri and Takachiho Gorge Day Tour (Minimum 1 Person, Departing from Fukuoka)
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Standard Departure (8-9 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines, Bus tour, Hiking |
| Transport | Walking, Bus tour |
Product Info
What will I see on the Takachiho Gorge day trip?
Leave Fukuoka for Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture, then return to Hakata Station in Fukuoka to end a full day.
- Takachiho Gorge: a gorge formed after an eruption of nearby Mt. Aso over 100,000 years ago. Enjoy a spiritual journey through nature in this mysterious gorge.
- Takachiho Railway Amaterasu small train (optional): you can choose to ride the small train and enjoy magnificent views from the 105m-high railway.
- Amanoyasukawara: afterwards, head to Amanoyasukawara, then return to Hakata Station.
How does the Takachiho boat ride work?
Please note the following about the Takachiho boat ride.
- Sharing a boat: each boat is rowed by a group of 2–3 people; solo travelers will share a boat with other tour members.
- Ticketing: the Takachiho boat ticketing system occasionally fails. If you have bought a package that includes a boat ticket, we will do our best to complete the booking; if the purchase ultimately fails, we will notify you by email at least 4 days in advance. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
- Cancellation: if the boat ride is cancelled due to force majeure, the boat fee of JPY 2,000 per person will be refunded.
Purchase Notice
Travel conditions
- Departure / destination: Fukuoka
- Duration: same-day round trip
- Transportation: chartered bus
- Bus company: Nisshin Kanko or related partner bus companies
- Meals: breakfast 0, lunch 0, dinner 0
- Accommodation: none
- Minimum group size: 4
- Tour leader: 0
- Guide: 1
Tour planning / operation
- Operating company: JRT Group Co., Ltd.
- Address: Room 510, 5F, Ginza Ishii Building, 6-14-8 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- License number: Tokyo Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-8353
- Travel agency association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Regular Member
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The above itinerary is for reference only and is subject to traffic conditions beyond our control. Please avoid scheduling activities for that evening. We apologize for any delays.
Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring your own warm clothing if necessary.
The company is not responsible for any inability to join the tour or poor scenery quality due to force majeure factors such as traffic or weather. No refunds or rescheduling will be provided. Thank you for your understanding.
Itinerary or stay duration at each attraction may be adjusted due to traffic congestion, facility maintenance, etc.
No refunds will be provided if the tour is abandoned midway due to the traveler's personal reasons.
Please ensure you arrive at the designated meeting point on time. Do not be late. As this tour cannot accommodate transfers to other schedules or mid-tour joining, any losses incurred due to personal reasons preventing participation in the day tour must be borne by the participant. Thank you for your understanding.
Vehicle type: Assigned based on the number of people. For small groups, a driver-guide will be arranged to provide full travel services, and no additional tour leader will be dispatched. Please be aware of this.
The itinerary does not include the small train ticket; please purchase it at your own expense if needed.
*The third Thursday of every month* The Amaterasu Railway does not operate. Customers wishing to experience it should avoid this day. [Warm reminder: The small train operates normally during August]
The day tour does not include personal travel insurance or personal accident insurance. If needed, please purchase it yourself. Outdoor activities and high-risk sports involve specific risks and dangers; please assess your own health or capabilities. The company assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or harm caused by accidents or unforeseen factors. Thank you for your understanding.
FAQs
1. What are the main highlights and activities available at Takachiho Gorge?
Takachiho Gorge is renowned for its dramatic volcanic basalt columns, formed by ancient lava flows. A key highlight is the stunning Manai Waterfall, which cascades into the gorge. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience by renting a boat to paddle directly beneath the waterfall and through the emerald green waters. Additionally, there are well-maintained walking paths along the gorge rim, offering picturesque views of the geological formations and the surrounding natural beauty.
2. What should visitors know about renting a boat at Takachiho Gorge?
Boat rentals at Takachiho Gorge typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during peak seasons. The boats allow visitors to navigate the calm waters of the gorge, providing an up-close view of the Manai Waterfall and the towering columnar joints. Rental duration is usually set for a specific period, and operation may be suspended due to adverse weather conditions or high water levels for safety reasons. It's advisable to check the operational status before your visit.
3. When is the most recommended time of year to visit Takachiho Gorge for scenic views?
The most recommended times to visit Takachiho Gorge for scenic views are spring (typically April to May) when the fresh greenery is vibrant, and autumn (late October to November) for its spectacular display of colorful foliage. Summer offers lush landscapes but can be hot and crowded, while winter provides a serene, often less-crowded experience with different charm. Visiting early in the morning can also offer a more tranquil atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
4. How can visitors travel from Fukuoka to Takachiho Gorge?
Traveling from Fukuoka to Takachiho Gorge typically involves a combination of train and bus, which can be time-consuming due to transfers. For a more convenient and direct experience, you can book a one-day tour through KKday. This provides efficient roundtrip transportation directly from Fukuoka, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic journey without the complexities of public transport planning, ensuring a smooth visit to Takachiho Gorge and other attractions.
5. What is the experience like on the Takachiho Amaterasu Railway Grand Super Cart?
The Takachiho Amaterasu Railway Grand Super Cart offers a unique and scenic train ride along the disused Takachiho Line. This special cart travels over a 105-meter-high railway bridge, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Takachiho Gorge and the surrounding Miyazaki countryside. The journey includes passing through tunnels with special illuminations and offers a distinctive perspective of the natural landscape that is otherwise inaccessible.
6. Are there specific hiking trails or viewpoints recommended at Takachiho Gorge?
Yes, Takachiho Gorge features well-defined walking paths that allow visitors to explore the area on foot. The most popular trail follows the gorge rim, providing multiple viewpoints to admire the Manai Waterfall and the impressive columnar joint rock formations from above. These paths are generally easy to navigate and offer numerous spots for photography, ensuring you capture the gorge's natural beauty from various angles.
7. What is the significance of Amano Yasukawara Cave for visitors?
Amano Yasukawara Cave is a spiritual site deeply rooted in Japanese mythology, believed to be the cave where Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess, hid herself. Visitors can experience a mystical atmosphere walking along the Iwato River to reach the cave. Inside and around the cave, countless piles of stones stacked by visitors create a unique and solemn landscape, representing prayers and wishes, making it a place of quiet reflection and cultural significance.
8. What amenities are included with the one-day tour to Takachiho Gorge departing from Fukuoka?
A one-day tour to Takachiho Gorge departing from Fukuoka typically includes convenient roundtrip transportation from a designated meeting point. This eliminates the need for self-driving or navigating public transport. Many tours also provide the added benefit of a bilingual guide, who offers insights and information about the attractions and local culture throughout the journey, ensuring a more informative and hassle-free exploration of Takachiho Gorge, the Mini Train, and Amano Yasukawara.
