How To Spend A Day In Aoshima, Japan

Just south of the city of Miyazaki on Kyushu island lies Aoshima, which, despite its small size, is the kind of place that should be on your Japan itinerary if you’re looking for a coastal getaway bathed with blue hues and tranquility.

So if you intend to visit Miyazaki Prefecture, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Aoshima!

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Aoshima in a few words

Best known for its small island connected to the mainland by a footbridge, there’s more to the island than its temple, Devil’s Washboard, and tropical vibes.

It’s also the perfect place to escape the more touristy cities and enjoy a nice and peaceful scenery right on the beach.

Note: do not confuse with Aoshima in Ehime Prefecture.

Is one day in Aoshima enough?

Yes and no. I’m not entirely objective, as I personally spent two and a half days there, wanting to unwind and take in all the beauty Aoshima has to offer. But if you only want to see the main attractions of Aoshima, then one day is enough to get around the island and try some of the local delicacies.

And if you want to get the most of Aoshima, leave the car behind and opt for walking or renting a bike. It’s a very small town that invites you to slow down and enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings.

Breakfast or Surfing

Since Miyazaki is known for its surfing culture, it’s no surprise that you can take advantage of your stay in the town to surf. The conditions are pretty consistent, making it an ideal destination if you want to soak in the salty air and have a go at surfing. Or, if you’re already an experienced surfer, ride the waves before breakfast.

The best spot? There are actually two: Aoshima Beach and Kisakihama!

And if surfing isn’t your thing or if’s too cold for you, don’t worry: you can directly skip to breakfast at Mellow Cafe, where acai bowls, salads and sandwiches await you.

There’s always the option to go to FamilyMart to grab your favorite snacks too! Personally, I can’t resist their melon pan and smoothies. And yes, their simple egg sandwiches (which everyone loves) are truly delicious!

Note: Mellow Cafe is a 25-minute walk from Kisakihama.

Morning: exploring Aoshima

Let’s head back into town to tour the island. Nothing too complicated here since there are only three main sights to see, but it can still take up most of your morning if you take the time to play on the rocks at Devil’s Washboard.

Cross the Yayoi bridge and start your tour by a visit of Aoshima Shrine, a Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest of subtropical plants and sea views. Go deeper in the forest: you’ll almost feel like you’re walking trough the heart of a small, dense jungle.

Since the shrine is famous for matchmaking, you might spot a few couples praying for a blessed marriage. You can also try your luck by searching for the many heart-shaped decorations placed all over the area.

You can then make your way to the cute little lighthouse perched at the end of Devil’s Washboard. There, you’ll probably see a few locals fishing or collecting unique, colorful seashells as memories.

Remember to walk carefully on Devil’s Washboard (more visible at low tide), as it can be quite slippery.

Wondering why it’s called the Devil’s Washboard or Oni no Sentakuita? Contrary to what its name suggests, and as you’ve probably already guessed, this rock formation wasn’t created by the devil, but by erosion, and stretches for about eight kilometers around Aoshima island. But it does look like a washboard, hence the name.

You can also tour the island by tuk-tuk, although taking the time to walk along the shore while admiring the scenery and the seashells is much more fun.

Lunch: がんちゃん亭

Whether you’re a vegetarian or not, here’s an address that should satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Come have lunch in a warm atmosphere and try one of Miyazaki’s specialties: chicken nanban, a type of fried chicken.

Generous portions and an affordable menu, that’s everything you could ask for in a well-balanced, hearty meal!

Afternoon: beach and Horikiri Pass

You can’t visit and island and its town without spending time at the beach, so hop on your bike and enjoy a soothing time at the beach.

Relax to the sound of the waves, go for a run, read a book, or just unwind.

Its massive stretch of sand and pretty sea views make it one of my favorite beaches in Japan so far. I also like the fact that there are nearby changing rooms and showers, as well as a free and beautiful botanical garden: Miyako Botanic Garden Aoshima.

And after some time at the beach, I definitely need to stretch my legs, so what could be better than a bike ride up to Horikiri Pass? Just 20-30 minutes from Aoshima, this beautiful spot on the Nichinan coast can’t really be captured by photos or videos.

Still, if you want or need breathtaking views of the ocean, palm tress and Devil’s Washboard rock formations to yourself, Horikiri Pass is the ideal place.

Note: Aoshima beach is also the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Dinner: Onisen

Craving some seafood so close to the ocean? Look no further than a dinner at Onisen, where refreshing dishes like cold miso soup, sashimi, but also set meals await you.

This family-style Japanese restaurant is the perfect spot in town to recharge your batteries in a lively and friendly atmosphere.

Note: it’s best to reserve a table, as this local restaurant is often full.

Alternative itinerary for Aoshima

Want to mix things up and explore beyond the small town of Aoshima? You can easily do both: for example, spend your morning visiting Aoshima island before taking the bus down along the Nichinan coast.

There, you can stop at Udo shrine, a Shinto shrine surrounded by peaceful scenery and stunning ocean views, which also offers a unique experience and tradition called “undama”. Visitors are invited to throw small ceramic balls into a sacred rock pool lined with rope for good fortune.

And while you’re visiting Udo shrine, don’t miss Namikiri shrine, a beautiful coastal shrine nestled in a cave and located right next to Udo shrine.

You can then head back up toward the Nichinan Coast and stop at Totoro of Futo, a photo spot where you can recreate your favorite scenes from the animated film “My Neighbor Totoro”.

Don’t forget to pass through the beautiful Horikiri Pass before ending the day by admiring a sunset with delicate shades of pink on Aoshima beach.

Map itinerary: Aoshima

Tips for visiting Aoshima

Here are a few tips you should know before planning your trip to Aoshima.

Best time to visit Aoshima

There’s no bad time to visit Aoshima, as this destination is beautiful no matter the season. And if you intend to visit with surfing in mind, the same applies: Miyazaki Prefecture is renowned for its great conditions year-round. Still, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the typhoon season (June through October/November), offers more powerful swells than at other times of the year.

How to get to Aoshima

From Miyazaki city, you can take the JR Nichinan line for 30 minutes to Aoshima station, or take the local bus from Miyazaki station toward Togudanchi.

What is the best way to get around Aoshima?

For me, I’d say by bike, as the town is perfect for cycling while enjoying the magnificent ocean views and towering palm trees. Plus, many accommodations actually offer free bike rentals to their guests.

Where to stay in Aoshima

Conveniently located and comfortable, here are two options for your stay in Aoshima.

• Finecamp Guesthouse and Surf: a simple, no-frills accommodation, with friendly hosts and everything you need for your surfing trip. A guesthouse where you’ll feel right at home, and with free bikes available for your use.

• Route Inn Grantia Aoshima Taiyokaku: not far from the beach, this hotel offers a relaxing stay with traditional Japanese-style rooms, an onsen, and a breakfast buffet. A quiet location in Aoshima with easy access to all the main attractions.

Travel insurance for your trip to Japan

Because you should never leave home without insurance, don’t forget this crucial step before planning any trip. And if you’re not sure which one to choose from the hundreds of options available, here’s the one I use and trust: Heymondo (with a 5% discount just for you).

FAQ

Is Aoshima worth visiting?

If you’re an ocean lover, or someone who wants to slow down during your trip to Kyushu island to enjoy beautiful, peaceful scenery, then Aoshima should definitely be included on your Japan itinerary.

This small town is a hidden gem in Miyazaki Prefecture and the ideal spot to relax thanks to its laidback vibes.

What is Aoshima known for?

Mainly for its 1.5 km-circumference island, its beautiful coastal scenery, its seaside shrine as well as for its unique rock formation called Oni no Sentakuita or Devil’s Washboard.

How long should you stay in Aoshima?

It all depends on your travel style, but I’d say two days are ideal if you want to experience the best of Aoshima and taste its local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

Beyond Aoshima

Ready to explore more of the magnificent island of Kyushu? Check out my 3-Week Itinerary In Japan – Exploring Kyushu And Okinawa!