🗺️ Cape Toi都井岬

Located at the southernmost tip of Nichinan Coast National Park, the cape spans the coastline from southern Miyazaki Prefecture to the western shore of Shishikawa in Kagoshima Prefecture. From the "Tōi Cape Lighthouse," standing in front of the cape, one can take in the lush mountains and the Hyuga-nada Sea in their entirety. The grand and magnificent scenery makes one feel as if they are in a foreign land. This lighthouse now serves as a navigation marker for maritime vessels and is the only lighthouse in Kyushu that is open for public visits. The surrounding area features an exhibition room that provides in-depth information about navigational markers. Another feature of Tōi Cape is the habitat of the Japanese native breed "Misaki Horse." The Misaki Horse was originally grazed here by the Takaharu Domain during the Edo period and is now designated as a national natural monument. The 550 hectares of Tōi Cape serve as a habitat for these horses, allowing for close observation of their natural lives. From April to May each year, many foals known as "harukoma" are born, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these adorable young horses. In the summer, the "Tōi Cape Fire Festival," which originates from a local legend about a giant snake, is held. A towering pillar of about 30 meters is erected, and participants throw torches from below towards the top of the pillar. This grand and powerful festival has become a summer tradition in the area, attracting numerous tourists each year.

The cape located at the southernmost point of the Nichinan Coast National Park. From the "Tōi Cape Lighthouse," one can enjoy a panoramic view of the lush mountains and Hyuga-nada Sea. It is the only lighthouse in Kyushu that is open for public visits. It is also a habitat for one of Japan's native species, the "Misaki Horse." The 550 hectares of Tōi Cape serve as a habitat for these horses, allowing for close observation of the wild horses' lives.