Udo Jingu Shrine & Obi Castle

It's easy to see why the prefecture's capital city was proclaimed "Japan's Cultural City of Historic Sightseeing." Around every corner you'll find history, serenity and spirituality. Obi Castle Town is your portal to Miyazaki's Edo past. A Designated Historical Preservation District, you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time when you explore the streets and samurai homes that remain. Continue on to Udo Shrine, set inside a grotto created by waves, perched at the top of a staircase that runs along the rock face. Built approximately 2,000-years-ago, the brightly painted shrine sits inside a cave on the side of a cliff overlooking the ocean. Believed to be the birthplace of the father of the mythical Emperor Jimmu, the shrine is popular with young couples hoping for a happy marriage and easy childbirth. After exploring the interior, step outside for spectacular views of the ocean.