Cape Toi

The southernmost tip of Nichinan Coast Quasi-National Park stretches along the coastline from southern Miyazaki Prefecture to the western shore of Shibushi Bay in Kagoshima, Cape Toi, outlining a bump of green hills along the glittering Hyuga Sea. The landscape stands draped in the full frame of drama, as if plucked from a distant land. The cape bends with Cape Toi Lighthouse at its tip, still actively guiding ships today and notably the only lighthouse in Kyushu that allows interior tours. Visitors can learn about maritime navigation at the lighthouse’s exhibition room.

Cape Toi is also famous for the Misaki Horses (Misaki-uma), a native Japanese breed introduced by the Takanabe domain during the Edo period. These horses remain today as a designated national natural monument, roaming freely across the cape’s expansive 550-hectare habitat in a scene of wild serenity. Visits planned between April and May come with the chance to spot adorable foals, affectionately known as harukoma ("spring foals"), as they roam around the cape.

In summer, the cape hosts the exciting Cape Toi Fire Festival, inspired by local legends of giant serpents. During this event, participants throw flaming torches toward the top of a towering 30-meter-high wooden pillar. This thrilling festival attracts numerous visitors each year, marking it as one of Kushima’s iconic summer traditions.