Aburatsu Shrine Discovery Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Experience the mystical spiritual heritage of the Miyazaki coastline on this 4-hour Aburatsu shore excursion. This tour is a journey into the heart of Shinto tradition, set against a backdrop of dramatic geological formations and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. You will visit two of Japan’s most visually striking shrines—one tucked away inside a massive seaside cave and the other situated on a lush tropical island surrounded by unique rock formations.

From the vibrant vermilion corridors of Udo Shrine to the “Devil’s Washboard” that encircles Aoshima Island, this tour highlights the profound connection between Japanese spirituality and the natural world. Guided by a licensed professional, you will navigate the scenic Nichinan Coast in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. With our “Back-to-Ship Guarantee,” this tour provides a perfectly timed, stress-free cultural immersion for those looking to discover the legendary roots of the Miyazaki region.

Highlights

• Udo Shrine: Explore a magnificent bright red shrine uniquely built inside a natural cave on a cliffside overlooking the ocean.
• Aoshima Shrine: Cross a picturesque bridge to a small, tropical island covered in palm trees to visit a shrine famous for bringing good luck in marriage.
• The Devil’s Washboard (Oni no Sentaku-ita): Marvel at the unique, perfectly straight basalt rock formations that surround Aoshima Island, resembling a giant washboard.
• Undama Tossing: Try your luck at Udo Shrine by tossing “lucky ceramic stones” into a target on top of a turtle-shaped rock in the ocean for a wish to come true.

Cruise Information

This 4-hour tour is synchronized with the docking schedules of major cruise lines at the Port of Aburatsu (Nichinan). We understand the importance of your ship’s departure time, so we coordinate our pickup and return to ensure you are back at the pier at least one hour before the “all aboard” call. Our team monitors port operations in real-time, providing a seamless transition from the gangway to the coastal highlights.

Complete Details

Your discovery begins at the Aburatsu Port, where your guide and driver will welcome you. You will head south along the Nichinan Coast to Udo Shrine. After descending a series of stone stairs along the cliff, you will enter a vast cave where the main shrine is situated. Your guide will explain the shrine’s association with the birth of Japan’s first emperor and the legends of fertility and safe passage.

Next, you will travel to Aoshima Island. Accessible via a pedestrian bridge, the island is a botanical wonder, home to sub-tropical plants rarely seen elsewhere in Japan. At the center is Aoshima Shrine, a site steeped in the myth of the brothers Yamasachihiko and Umisachihiko. You’ll have time to walk the perimeter of the island to see the Devil’s Washboard—a geological phenomenon created by erosion over millions of years. After capturing these iconic sights, your private vehicle will escort you back to the port in time for your cruise departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants will verify your ship’s docking schedule to ensure a seamless experience.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers and travel agencies.

Complimentary 10GB eSIM with Every Jasumo Tour Booking

When you book your tour through Jasumo, we make your journey even smoother by giving you a free 10GB eSIM. Stay connected along the Nichinan Coast from the moment you arrive—use maps to navigate the shrine grounds, message your group, and share your photos of the “Devil’s Washboard” instantly without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or buying a local SIM. It’s our way of ensuring a stress-free and fully connected travel experience.

FAQs

Is there a lot of walking or stairs on this tour?

Udo Shrine involves descending and then climbing back up a significant number of stone stairs along the cliffside. Aoshima involves a flat walk across the bridge and around the island. This tour is recommended for guests with moderate mobility.

What is the “Undama” tossing at Udo Shrine?

It is a local tradition where visitors buy small ceramic stones (Undama). Men throw with their left hand and women with their right; if you land the stone in the water-filled depression on the “Turtle Rock” below the cliff, your wish is said to come true!

How far are the shrines from the Aburatsu cruise port?

The shrines are located along the coast, with drive times ranging from 20 to 45 minutes from the port. The private vehicle allows for a much faster and more comfortable journey than local buses or shuttles.

What should I wear for this excursion?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the stairs at Udo Shrine and the sandy/stony paths on Aoshima. Since the sites are on the coast, it can be breezy, so a light windbreaker or sun protection is also recommended.

Does the “Back-to-Ship Guarantee” cover traffic?

Yes. We are local experts who plan our routes with a generous time buffer. We monitor the coastal road conditions in real-time to ensure you are back at the pier at least one hour before departure.

Location