Walking Horikiri Pass in Miyazaki: A Scenic Coastal Viewpoint Overlooking the Pacific
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A Field Report from Horikiri Pass, a Scenic Spot You Can Enjoy for Free
Horikiri Pass is one of the most popular scenic viewpoints representing Miyazaki.
Located conveniently along the sightseeing route from downtown Miyazaki toward Nichinan and Obi, it is easy to include in a day’s itinerary — so I decided to visit right away.
This article provides an on-site report based on my actual visit.
For detailed explanations about the highlights of Horikiri Pass and how to get there, please refer to the following article.
Read more about Highlights & Access Guide to Horikiri Pass
Arriving at Horikiri Pass — The Free Parking Area is Spacious
Right next to Horikiri Pass, you will find a parking lot that is available 24 hours a day and completely free.
There is enough space for around 15 standard-sized cars, and it also accommodates motorcycle touring without any issues.
Because the parking area itself is spacious, entering and exiting is smooth. And since it is located directly along the roadside, you won’t have trouble finding it.
Only a One-Minute Walk from the Parking Lot to Horikiri Pass
The viewpoint is truly just a short distance away from the parking lot.
Within about one minute on foot, you arrive at the spot where the ocean suddenly opens up before you.
The curved section of the road marks the location of Horikiri Pass.
Spectacular Nichinan Coast Views from the Horikiri Pass Lookout
The first things that catch your eye upon arriving at Horikiri Pass are the tropical Phoenix palm trees and the vast, uninterrupted expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
The soft blending of the ocean and sky creates a beautiful gradient of blue — the kind that makes you want to keep taking photo after photo.
You Can Also See the “Devil’s Washboard” from Here
From Horikiri Pass, you can overlook the famous natural formation known as the “Devil’s Washboard,” a well-known scenic spot in Miyazaki.
Seen from a higher vantage point, the evenly layered rock formations lining the coast appear even more striking than when viewed up close.
The combination of the endless Pacific horizon and the unique rock surfaces creates a view that is truly characteristic of Horikiri Pass.
Walkway to Michi-no-Eki Phoenix
Right near Horikiri Pass is Michi-no-Eki Phoenix, a popular roadside station. A seaside walkway connects the two locations, allowing you to walk from Horikiri Pass to the roadside station while enjoying the coastal scenery.
It takes about 12 minutes on foot. With the vast ocean stretching out beside you, the walk feels pleasantly short.
A Relaxing Scenic Spot Showcasing the Essence of Miyazaki — and Free to Visit
Miyazaki offers many beautiful scenic viewpoints, but Horikiri Pass stands out for two especially convenient reasons: it’s free, and it’s extremely easy to find.
When visiting a new region, transportation and parking can often feel confusing. Here, the parking lot is located directly along the roadside, so navigating your way in is simple. The parking area is well maintained — and free — which is another welcome benefit.
Having Michi-no-Eki Phoenix nearby also makes it easy to plan your next steps depending on the direction of your trip. It’s a convenient place to continue your journey toward Nichinan or Obi without breaking the flow of your travel.
Horikiri Pass offers expansive views of the Pacific Ocean without costing anything. If you’re traveling from Miyazaki City toward Nichinan or Obi, it’s a spot well worth stopping by.
