Excursion Udo shrine & obi castle ruin tour at Aburatsu

Discover two of the most picturesque, historic and revered sites in Miyazaki during this memorable, half-day excursion to the Udo Shrine and Obi Castle Ruins.

Aburatsu, Udo Shrine, Cliffside Cave and Spectacular Ocean Views

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Udo Shrine. Dedicated to Yamasachihiko, the father of Emperor Jimmu, mythical first emperor of Japan, this fascinating shrine is set in a cave that clings to the side of a cliff and is famed for its dramatic locale. After exploring the interior of the shrine, step outside onto the terrace for spectacular views of the ocean. According to myth, the rocks that surround the cave nourished Emperor Jimmu when he was a baby. Today, women drink the water that flows between the rocks to increase fertility and facilitate childbirth. This spot is also thought to be a lucky place for young couples. Taffy made from this water is available for purchase, as are small clay discs that are thrown at a target between the peaks of a nearby island for good luck.

Obi Castle Ruins

Next, re-board your coach and proceed to the Obi Castle Ruins. The tranquil lands around Obi Castle have been inhabited for centuries. Fortified in the 1400s, the castle was built by the Shimazu clan in 1588 using over 57,000 stones, and captured by the Ito clan shortly thereafter. Rebuilt after an earthquake in the 17th century, it was not until the 1970s that much of the castle's masonry was refurbished. The area features a majestic, wide, stone staircase and massive stone walls.

Yoshokan Samurai and Matsuo no Maru Residences, Garden, Mt. Atago, Obi Castle History Museum

Just off to the left of the Ote-mon Gate of Obi Castle is Yoshokan, an old Samurai residence that is famous for its beautiful garden decorated with lanterns. It is a picture-perfect spot, with majestic Mt. Atago as the backdrop. Nearby, see a second, partially-restored castle, Matsuo no Maru, a wonderful Samurai residence where all the rooms face south in conformity with tradition and the rules of geomancy. Each chamber overlooks a garden with dry landscape features and splendid views of Mt. Atago. Afterward, visit the Obi Castle History Museum, which houses more than 200 exhibits that include swords, armour and other artefacts. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach for the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Aburatsu, Miyazaki, Udo Shrine, Cliffside Cave, Obi Castle Ruins, Yoshokan and Matsuo no Maru Residences, Garden, Mt. Atago, Obi Castle History Museum

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.75 miles (about 1.2 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 200 steps at the Udo Shrine and 200 steps at the Obi Castle Ruins. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests are required to remove their shoes at the Matsuo no Maru residence. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.