“Can Male-Female Friendship Work? (No, It Can’t!!)” Miyazaki Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Guide Complete Edition
The film “Can Male-Female Friendship Work? (No, It Can’t!!)” is a coming-of-age love story set against the beautiful nature and mystical spots of Miyazaki Prefecture. This article provides detailed introductions to the sacred sites within Miyazaki Prefecture featured in the work, along with practical information for actually visiting them on a pilgrimage.
About the Film “Can Male-Female Friendship Work? (No, It Can’t!!)”
Released in 2024, this work is a romantic film themed around male-female friendship. The story depicts how the protagonists struggle with a relationship that is “more than friends, less than lovers” while growing, all set against the backdrop of Miyazaki Prefecture’s majestic natural scenery.
The film’s appeal lies not only in the delicate psychological portrayal of the characters, but also in the breathtaking beautiful landscapes of Miyazaki Prefecture. The director stated, “Miyazaki’s mystical atmosphere was perfect for expressing the protagonists’ wavering emotions,” revealing particular care in location scouting.
Why Miyazaki Prefecture Was Chosen as a Sacred Site
Miyazaki Prefecture is known as the “Birthplace of Mythology,” with many locations that serve as the settings for myths appearing in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The film production team overlaid the subtle emotions of a friendship transforming into romance with Miyazaki’s mythological and mystical landscapes, seeking to express a deeper narrative meaning.
The Takachiho region in particular is famous for the “Heavenly Rock Cave Legend” of Amaterasu, serving as a location symbolizing turning points in human relationships. Additionally, the open seascapes of Aoshima and Nichinan Coast are used in important scenes depicting the protagonists’ first steps forward.
Detailed Guide to Major Sacred Site Spots
Takachiho Gorge (Takachiho Kyō)
Film Appearance Scenes
Takachiho Gorge plays an important role in the film’s climax. An emotional scene was filmed where the two protagonists confirm their true feelings for each other while gazing at Manai Falls.
Spot Characteristics
A gorge formed by volcanic activity from Mount Aso, with cliffs 80-100 meters high continuing for approximately 7 kilometers. Manai Falls in particular was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, creating a mystical atmosphere as pure water cascades down 17 meters.
You can explore the gorge interior by renting a boat, allowing you to experience one of the movie’s scenes firsthand. The fresh greenery season (April-May) and autumn foliage period (November) are particularly beautiful, and visiting during the same season as filming will allow you to feel the movie’s atmosphere even more.
Access Information
- Address: Miyazaki Prefecture Nishi-Usuki District, Takachiho Town, Mita Shioii
- Nearest Station: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by Miyazaki Kotsu Bus from JR Nobeoka Station
- By Car: Approximately 2 hours from Kumamoto IC on the Kyushu Expressway
- Parking: Available (Paid, approximately ¥500)
- Boat Rates: ¥3,000 for 30 minutes (3-person boat)
- Operating Hours: 8:30~17:00 (Final booking 16:30)
Pilgrimage Tips
Boats are popular, with waits of 1-2 hours on weekends. Visit early in the morning or use advance reservations if available. The gorge-side walking trail is also well-maintained and walking tours are recommended.
Ama no Iwato Shrine (Ama no Iwato Jinja)
Film Appearance Scenes
The protagonists visit the shrine while troubled about “friendship” and pray. At this sacred site of mythology, the pair’s relationship advances to a new stage in an important turning point scene.
Spot Characteristics
A shrine venerating the “Heavenly Rock Cave” where Amaterasu allegedly hid as its sacred object. There are a West Main Shrine and East Main Shrine, with the West Main Shrine primarily used for filming. From the precinct, you can worship toward the Heavenly Rock Cave across the Iwato River (direct viewing is not possible, but viewing is available through priest guidance).
Approximately a 10-minute walk from the shrine is “Ama no Yasukawa,” a cave where the eight million gods allegedly gathered for consultation, featuring a fantastic landscape of countless stacked stones. This was also used in an impressive scene in the film.
Access Information
- Address: Miyazaki Prefecture Nishi-Usuki District, Takachiho Town, Iwato 1073-1
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Takachiho Gorge
- Parking: Free
- Worship Hours: Anytime (Office hours 8:30~17:00)
- Sacred Object Viewing: Requires reservation (Free, approximately 20 minutes)
Pilgrimage Tips
I strongly recommend extending your visit to Ama no Yasukawa. The approximately 10-minute walk along the riverbank trail is a wonderful experience for feeling the film’s atmosphere. There is a tradition of stacking stones, so please stack them carefully so they don’t collapse.
Aoshima Shrine (Aoshima Jinja)
Film Appearance Scenes
Featured in the film’s middle section during a scene where the protagonists create summer memories. The striking contrast between the bright red shrine buildings and the blue sea is depicted as an impressive scene.
Spot Characteristics
An entire 1.5-kilometer island serves as the shrine precinct, surrounded by wave-shaped rocks called “Oni no Sentakuita” (Demon’s Washboard). Known as a shrine for matchmaking and love fulfillment, it draws many worshippers seeking romantic success.
Subtropical plants thrive throughout the island, creating a distinctly tropical atmosphere. The film features scenes of the protagonists walking through the shrine grounds and conversing on the beach.
Access Information
- Address: Miyazaki Prefecture Miyazaki City, Aoshima 2-13-1
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Aoshima Station
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Airport
- Parking: Paid parking available nearby (approximately ¥500)
- Worship Hours: Anytime (Office hours 6:00~sunset)
Pilgrimage Tips
During low tide, the “Oni no Sentakuita” rocks become more visible, so checking tide times before visiting is beneficial. The view from the bridge leading to the island is also spectacular, making it an ideal photo spot.
Nichinan Coast (Nichinan Kaigan)
Film Appearance Scenes
Featured in scenes where the protagonists go on a drive date, with beautiful coastline views. The scene in front of Sanmesse Nichinan’s moai statues is particularly impressive and was used on the movie poster.
Spot Characteristics
A coastline spanning approximately 100 kilometers from Miyazaki City to Kushima City, designated as the Nichi-Hyogo Coast Quasi-National Park. The scenery continues with contrasts of blue sea and sky, and green mountains creating a spectacular view, making it one of Kyushu’s finest driving routes.
Sanmesse Nichinan features 7 completely authentic moai statues approved by Easter Island authorities, with each believed to provide different blessings. In the film, an impressive scene shows the protagonists discussing their future in front of the moai statues.
Access Information
- Address (Sanmesse Nichinan): Miyazaki Prefecture Nichinan City, Miyaura 2650
- Approximately 40 minutes by car from Miyazaki City
- Parking: Free
- Operating Hours: 9:30~17:00
- Admission: Adults ¥800, Middle/High School ¥500, Elementary School ¥350
Pilgrimage Tips
There are many other attractions along the Nichinan Coast, such as Udo Shrine. If time permits, a leisurely drive along the coast visiting multiple spots is recommended.
Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo Area
Film Appearance Scenes
Scenes depicting the protagonists’ daily life feature zoo dating scenes. The youthful and cheerful atmosphere is striking.
Spot Characteristics
An animal park on a plateau with an ocean view, housing approximately 100 species and 1,200 animals. The garden’s views are also spectacular, and the film effectively uses the panoramic views from the observation deck.
Access Information
- Address: Miyazaki Prefecture Miyazaki City, Shiooji Hamayama 3083-42
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Station
- Parking: Free
- Operating Hours: 9:00~17:00 (Entry until 16:30)
- Admission: Adults ¥840, Middle School ¥420, Elementary School ¥310
- Closed: Wednesdays (following day if Wednesday is a holiday)
Pilgrimage Tips
Since the garden is large, checking scenes featured in the movie beforehand makes visiting more efficient. The observation restaurant views are particularly spectacular, so lunch there is recommended.
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
1-Night 2-Day Course (Recommended)
Day 1: Takachiho Area
- 10:00 Arrival at Takachiho Gorge, boat experience (2 hours)
- 12:30 Lunch in Takachiho town (flowing noodles or local cuisine)
- 14:00 Visit Ama no Iwato Shrine
- 15:00 Explore Ama no Yasukawa
- 16:30 Visit Takachiho Shrine
- 18:00 Hotel check-in
- 20:00 Watch Takachiho Kagura (night sacred dance, reservations required)
Day 2: Miyazaki City and Nichinan Coast Area
- 9:00 Depart from Miyazaki City
- 10:00 Visit Aoshima Shrine (1 hour)
- 12:00 Drive along Nichinan Coast, lunch with seafood
- 14:00 Sanmesse Nichinan (moai statues)
- 16:00 To Miyazaki Airport or Miyazaki Station
Day Trip Course (Centered in Miyazaki City)
If time is limited, a day trip course focusing on Miyazaki City and Nichinan Coast is possible.
- 9:00 Aoshima Shrine
- 11:00 Nichinan Coast drive
- 13:00 Sanmesse Nichinan
- 15:00 Phoenix Natural Zoo
- 17:00 Dinner in Miyazaki City
2-Night 3-Day Comprehensive Course
For those with more time, a 2-night 3-day course allows for deeper enjoyment of Miyazaki. In addition to the 1-night 2-day course above, you can visit nearby attractions such as Udo Shrine, Obi Castle Town, and Toii Cape.
Preparation and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Packing List
- Camera/Smartphone: Essential for commemorative photos at sacred sites
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Long distances require comfortable footwear for temples and gorges
- Sunscreen/Hat: Miyazaki has strong sunlight
- Rainwear: Weather changes are particularly common in mountainous areas
- Beverages: Important for heat stroke prevention, especially in summer
- Mobile Battery Pack: Photo-taking drains batteries quickly
- Movie Pamphlet or Screenshots: Convenient for identifying locations
Best Seasons
Spring (March-May)
- Fresh greenery is beautiful with pleasant weather
- Takachiho Gorge’s new foliage is especially magnificent
- Note that Golden Week is crowded
Summer (June-August)
- Ideal for experiencing beach scenes
- Strong sunlight requires heat stroke prevention measures
- Rainy season (June-early July) requires rain precautions
Autumn (September-November)
- Takachiho Gorge’s autumn foliage is beautiful (mid-late November)
- Stable weather, optimal season for tourism
- Particularly recommended season
Winter (December-February)
- Fewer tourists allow leisurely pilgrimage
- Takachiho area requires cold-weather preparation
- Clear winter air provides extraordinary scenery
Manners and Precautions
Temple Worship Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Walk at the edge of the path, not down its center (the center is for the deity)
- Purify hands and mouth at the water basin
- Do not photograph in prohibited areas
- Refrain from loud noise
Environmental Considerations
- Always take trash with you
- Do not pick plants or damage vegetation
- Do not venture off designated trails
- Do not feed wildlife
Consideration for Local Residents
- Do not trespass on private property
- Walk quietly in residential areas
- Do not park illegally
- Respect local residents’ daily life
Getting More from Miyazaki Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Enjoying Miyazaki Cuisine
Combine sacred site pilgrimage with enjoying delicious Miyazaki cuisine.
Chicken Nanban
A popular dish originating in Miyazaki Prefecture. Chicken Nanban with generous tartar sauce can be enjoyed throughout the prefecture, with famous restaurants in Nobeoka and Miyazaki City particularly recommended.
Miyazaki Beef
A nationally famous brand beef. Enjoy it as steak or grilled meat, or try affordable lunch set menus.
Charcoal-Grilled Local Chicken
A standard menu at Miyazaki izakayas. Experience the savory flavor of local poultry.
Cold Soup
A Miyazaki regional dish, especially recommended in summer for its refreshing taste.
Mango
Miyazaki Prefecture is a fully-ripened mango production area. During peak season (June-August), enjoy intensely sweet mango.
How to Choose Accommodations
Takachiho Area
Hot spring inns and business hotels surround Takachiho Gorge. Staying in Takachiho town is convenient if watching Kagura performances.
Miyazaki City
Many hotels around Miyazaki Station and the entertainment district with abundant dining options. Convenient location for onward travel.
Nichinan Coast Area
Many ocean-view accommodations offering resort atmosphere, though access to Miyazaki City and Takachiho is somewhat inconvenient.
Transportation Choices
Rental Car (Most Recommended)
Since sacred sites are scattered widely, rental cars enable the most efficient movement. Rental car companies are numerous around Miyazaki Airport and Miyazaki Station.
Public Transportation
While time-consuming, buses and trains provide access to major sacred sites. However, some routes have infrequent service, so check schedules in advance.
Tourist Taxi
Recommended for those uncertain about driving or wanting to cover ground efficiently. Local drivers provide commentary on movie locations and can share lesser-known spots.
Recommended Nearby Spots
Recommended attractions worth visiting alongside sacred site pilgrimage.
Udo Shrine (Udo Jingu)
An unusual shrine with its main hall inside a cave facing the Pacific Ocean. Believed to provide blessings for safe childbirth and romantic matching, it’s famous for throwing “luck balls” into the cave as a wish-granting ritual. The contrast between the red shrine buildings and blue sea is beautiful and photogenic.
Toii Cape (Toii Misaki)
A cape with wild Misaki horses roaming freely, featuring pastoral scenery. While not directly featured in the film, this location conveys Miyazaki Prefecture’s rich natural environment.
Obi Castle Town (Obi Jo Kamachi)
A historic town preserving Edo period castle town atmosphere. Samurai residences and merchant houses remain preserved, offering a time-slip experience.
Miyazaki Shrine
A venerable shrine enshrining Emperor Jinmu, with hundreds of ancient trees throughout its expansive precinct. Located in Miyazaki City with convenient access.
Methods for Preserving Sacred Site Pilgrimage Memories
Photography Tips
Recreate Film Scenes
Photographing from the same angles as movie scenes makes pilgrimage memories more vivid. Review the film beforehand to confirm impressive scene compositions.
Consider Timing
Early morning and sunset hours produce particularly beautiful photographs. Takachiho Gorge and Nichinan Coast reveal completely different appearances depending on light.
Include People
Including companions or family alongside scenery creates more memorable photos than landscapes alone.
Shrine Stamp Collection
Collecting shrine stamps (goshuin) as mementos of shrine visits is recommended. Shrines around Takachiho Gorge offer distinctively different stamp designs. Bring a stamp book and preserve pilgrimage evidence.
Social Media Sharing
Sharing pilgrimage experiences on Instagram, Twitter and other platforms is enjoyable. Using hashtags like “#Can Male-Female Friendship Work” and “#Miyazaki Sacred Site Pilgrimage” allows connection with fellow fans.
However, avoid posts containing spoilers, showing consideration for those yet to see the film. Also refrain from posting photos from photography-prohibited areas.
Trivia for Deeper Film Understanding
Miyazaki Prefecture and Mythology
Miyazaki Prefecture, called “Hyuuga no Kuni” (Hyuuga Province), holds important significance as Japanese mythology’s setting. Countless myths locate here: Amaterasu’s Heavenly Rock Cave legend, the tales of Prince Yamasachi and Prince Unasachi, and Emperor Jinmu’s departure point for eastward expansion.
The film functions with this mythological background as a symbolic device expressing the protagonists’ changing relationship. The transformation from “friendship” to “romance” overlaps with mythology’s themes of “transformation” and “rebirth.”
Location Scouting Behind-the-Scenes
According to the film’s producer, location scouting spanned approximately six months with over 100 candidate sites throughout Miyazaki Prefecture. Finally selected locations expressed three themes: “mysticism,” “openness,” and “youthful brilliance.”
Takachiho Gorge was particularly chosen because the director, upon first sight, strongly wished to film there. The gorge’s mystical atmosphere was judged optimal for visually expressing the protagonists’ internal conflicts.
Travel Planning Hints for Miyazaki Prefecture
Budget Estimates
For 1 night 2 days (per person)
- Transportation: Round-trip airfare ¥30,000~¥50,000 (varies by departure point)
- Rental Car: ¥10,000~¥15,000 (2 days, including gas)
- Accommodation: ¥8,000~¥15,000 (1 night)
- Meals: ¥5,000~¥8,000 (2 days)
- Attraction Admission: Approximately ¥3,000
- Total: ¥56,000~¥91,000
Sharing rental cars with others reduces transportation costs. Early-booking discounts apply to airfare and hotels, reducing expenses.
Affordable Tourism Passes and Coupons
Miyazaki Prefecture offers tourism site discount coupons and tour passes. Check the Miyazaki Prefecture Tourism Association official website and local government tourism sites for latest information.
Some rental car companies offer plans bundling attraction discount tickets. Check when booking.
Reservation Timing
Airfare
Booking 1-2 months before departure date often applies early-bird discounts. Particularly for LCC usage, early booking offers savings.
Accommodations
Popular lodges fill quickly, so reserve early after confirming travel dates. Weekend, holiday, and peak seasons (spring/fall) especially experience crowding.
Rental Cars
Vehicles become scarce during busy periods, so reserve by one week prior for assurance.
Conclusion: Special Experiences Gained Through Miyazaki Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Sacred site pilgrimage for “Can Male-Female Friendship Work? (No, It Can’t!!)” holds value exceeding mere location visiting. Miyazaki Prefecture’s beautiful nature, mythology-colored mystical atmosphere, and warm local encounters will make your journey special.
Like the film’s protagonists wavering between “friendship” and “romance,” visiting sacred sites may provide opportunity to reconsider your own relationships and emotions. Takachiho Gorge’s mystical scenery, Aoshima Shrine’s matchmaking blessings, Nichinan Coast’s open seascape—each location speaks something to you.
Through Miyazaki Prefecture’s sacred site pilgrimage, while pursuing the film’s world, create your own precious memories. I hope this article aids your wonderful sacred site pilgrimage journey.
Prepare yourself for beautiful Miyazaki sacred sites. Unforgettable experiences surely await.
