The rare Pacific coast where a unique fungus and palm forests thrive

Countries & Cities · Published 30 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Located on the southeastern edge of Kyūshū, Miyazaki Prefecture is a land of ecological rarities. From being a disputed territory to hosting one of only two places on Earth where the Chorioactis geaster fungus grows, its geography is as complex as its history.

Miyazaki’s modern identity was forged through a series of administrative shifts following the Meiji Restoration. Originally known as Hyūga Province, the region saw the creation of a first iteration of Miyazaki Prefecture in 1873, following the merger of Mimitsu and parts of Miyakonojō Prefectures. However, this entity was short-lived, merging into Kagoshima Prefecture in 1876. It was not until 1883 that, following significant public pressure and demands from the Kagoshima Prefectural Assembly, Miyazaki finally achieved independence as its own prefecture.

Today, the prefecture covers 7,735 km² and is home to a population of 1,028,215 as of January 1, 2025. Its landscape is defined by its Pacific coastline, stretching from Nobeoka to Shibushi Bay. The region is a significant hub for biodiversity; it is one of only two locations globally where the fungus Chorioactis geaster can be found. Additionally, the area hosts two virgin forests of the Livistona chinensis palm, including a population on the islet of Aoshima that represents the northernmost reproducing group of its native range.

The prefecture’s natural beauty is codified through extensive conservation efforts. As of March 31, 2019, 12% of the land area was designated as Natural Parks. This includes the Kirishima-Kinkōwan National Park and several quasi-national and prefectural parks, such as Nichinan Kaigan and Sobo-Katamuki. Beyond its ecology, Miyazaki is a center for high-stakes sport, hosting the Dunlop Phoenix Tournament, an annual Japan Golf Tour event known for attracting international players and offering some of the tour's highest prize money.

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