Kuni-mi ga Oka (National View Hill)

Overview

Kuni-mi ga Oka is a hill in Takachiho-cho, Miyazaki Prefecture, standing at an elevation of 513 meters. It's renowned for its stunning 360-degree panoramic views. To the east, the Takachiho Basin stretches out, offering a magnificent view of the rising sun. To the west, the distant Aso caldera rim and the Five Peaks (resembling a reclining Buddha) rise majestically, creating a breathtaking vista. To the north, the Sobo mountain range and other peaks stand in a continuous line, while to the south, the Shiiba mountains, extending from Ni-jo-yama, come into view. Particularly from autumn to early winter, under the right conditions, a sea of clouds forms, spreading a magical and ethereal atmosphere. The sight of the Takachiho Basin shrouded in clouds, with mountain peaks emerging from the mist, is truly awe-inspiring. The name Kuni-mi ga Oka originates from a legend stating that Takeiwatatsu no Mikoto, from Japanese mythology, stopped at this hill during his governance of Kyushu to survey the land. It's also considered the birthplace of the Takachiho folk song "Karikirikibai," and the "Shocho Karikirikibai National Competition" is held here every year on the first Saturday and Sunday of October. Kuni-mi ga Oka is a highly recommended sightseeing spot where you can appreciate the grandeur of nature and indulge in historical romance.