From Fukuoka: Kamishikimi Shrine & Takachiho Gorge & Amanoiwato Shrine Day Tour

Depart Fukuoka and explore
the setting of Kyushu's myths in one day

At 8:30 AM, gather in front of the Lawson Oriental Hotel Fukuoka store on the Chikushi Exit side of Hakata Station and set off by coach. On this day tour of about 10 hours, you visit a forest shrine, a gorge and a mythical cave with a multilingual guide.

Walk the mossy stone steps of Kamishikimi Shrine

At Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, mossy stone steps climb through an ancient forest, lined on both sides by about 100 weathered stone lanterns. Wander freely for 40 minutes and feel the quiet atmosphere of the forest. Legend says that passing a small stone through the hole in the rock brings good luck. The stones can be slippery, so please wear non-slip shoes.

Admire Manai Falls at Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge, a National Place of Scenic Beauty, is where emerald water flows between columnar basalt cliffs formed when lava from Mt. Aso flowed along the Gokase River and cooled. See the 17 m Manai Falls, one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls, and the three bridges spanning the gorge from various viewpoints. During 90 minutes of free time, walk the roughly 1 km trail at your own pace.

If you chose the boat package, enjoy about 30 minutes on a boat for a close-up view of the falls and cliffs from the water. Boat operation depends on conditions, and some parts of the trail have stairs.

Visit Amanoiwato Shrine and Amanoyasukawara

At Amanoiwato Shrine, linked to the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu hiding and plunging the world into darkness, view the legendary cave across the Iwato River from the worship area of Nishi Hongu (West Main Hall). Then walk about 10 minutes along a forest path to Amanoyasukawara, a riverside cave where visitors have piled countless stones while making wishes. Explore the shrine and riverside freely for 60 minutes, then return to the Lawson Oriental Hotel Fukuoka store around 6:30 PM.

※ The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, traffic or holiday congestion.
※ Forest paths may be wet or rocky, so please watch your step.
※ Scenery depends on the weather and views are not guaranteed.