When I came to Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo, I was really looking forward to enjoying the rides, seeing the cute animals, and leisurely exploring the entire park.
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate, and it rained all day. Many of the outdoor attractions were unavailable, so I could only take a slow walk under my umbrella. However, because of the rain, there were very few visitors, which made it especially pleasant to walk around, and the animals looked different than they do on sunny days.
That's how travel is—it may not be perfect every time, but every trip leaves you with memories of your own. I hope I get the chance to come back and fully enjoy everything here next time.
Miyazaki City Phoenix Zoo | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Miyazaki Jingu Shrine
This shrine is the crown jewel of Miyazaki, and it worships the first Emperor Jimmu. Alongside the emperor, his parents, the god Ugayafuki-Aezu-no-Mikoto, and goddess Tamayorimi-Himenokoto is worshiped. Visitors pray to the altars in hope for being successful in education, business, and maternity. The festivals in October is dubbed “Jimmu-sama”, and is attended by many.
Miyazaki Jingu Shrine is one of Miyazaki's most iconic shrines. It enshrines Emperor Jimmu, Japan's first emperor, and the Grand Festival held every October is an important local event.
We visited on a weekday, and there really weren't many people. As soon as we entered the shrine grounds, everything became quiet. The tall trees, wide approach, and pleasant surroundings naturally made us slow down and quietly take in this rare sense of tranquility.
It isn't the kind of flashy, eye-catching attraction, but it's a good place to stop by while you're in the area, take a walk, snap some photos, and enjoy a relaxing trip without the crowds. -
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Sengan-en
Sengan-en is a Japanese garden made for the Shimadzu family estate by Mitsuhisa Shimadzu in 1658. The grounds boast a sprawling 50,000 square meters in total. The garden itself uses the “borrowed scenery” technique, incorporating Kagoshima’s coveted spots like the volcano Sakurajima and Kinko Bay as a natural backdrop.
When visiting Kagoshima, you shouldn't miss Sengan-en.
This Japanese garden, with more than 300 years of history, makes Sakurajima and Kinko Bay part of the garden itself. I really admire the ingenuity of the people who created it. As you stroll through the grounds, the scenery constantly changes with every step, and every angle looks like a postcard.
There aren't many visitors on weekdays, so you can take a leisurely walk, take photos, and quietly appreciate this garden that blends nature and history through borrowed scenery. If you enjoy slow travel, it's well worth spending a morning here. -
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Chiran Samurai Residence Garden
During the Edo period, the Satsuma Domain implemented a unique “Gaitō System”, which required samurai to be dispersed across the territory rather than concentrated in a single castle town. This led to the creation of Bukeyashiki (samurai residential districts) called "Fumoto", one of which was Chiran. The Chiran Samurai Residence Garden, believed to have been established around 270 years ago, still preserve their historical atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
This place is very different from busy tourist attractions. On weekdays, there are hardly any visitors, so you can take your time and stroll around at a leisurely pace.
As you walk along the old stone walls, Japanese gardens come into view one after another. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing, making you want to keep taking photos and slow down.
You need to buy a ticket to enter, but I think it's well worth it to see seven gardens designated as National Places of Scenic Beauty all at once.
If you visit Kagoshima, consider making a stop in Chiran to experience the beauty of Japanese gardens without the crowds. -
