[Can Male-Female Friendship Exist? (No, It Doesn’t!!)] Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture

【Can the Friendship Between Men and Women Be Established? (No, It Can’t!!)】 Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture

The film “Can the Friendship Between Men and Women Be Established? (No, It Can’t!!)” is a coming-of-age love story set against the beautiful nature and mystical spots of Miyazaki Prefecture. In this article, we introduce in detail the sacred sites within Miyazaki Prefecture featured in the work and provide practical information for actual pilgrimage visits.

About the Film “Can the Friendship Between Men and Women Be Established? (No, It Can’t!!)”

Released in 2024, this work is a romantic film themed on friendship between men and women. The way the protagonists grow while troubled by a relationship that is “more than friends, less than lovers” is depicted against the backdrop of Miyazaki Prefecture’s majestic nature.

The appeal of the film lies not only in the delicate psychological portrayal of the characters but also in the breathtaking beautiful scenery of Miyazaki Prefecture. The director stated, “The mystical atmosphere of Miyazaki was perfect for expressing the wavering emotions of the protagonists,” and particular care was taken in selecting filming locations.

Why Miyazaki Prefecture Was Chosen as a Sacred Site

Miyazaki Prefecture is known as “the birthplace of mythology,” and there are numerous sites that served as settings for myths found in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The film production team attempted to express deeper narrative by overlaying the subtle emotions that change from friendship between men and women to romantic love with the mythical and mystical landscape of Miyazaki.

In particular, the Takachihо region is famous for the “Heavenly Rock Cave Legend” of Amaterasu Ōmikami and appears in the work as a place symbolizing a turning point in human relationships. Additionally, the open seascapes of Aoshima and the Nichinan Coast are used in important scenes that support the protagonists’ next steps.

Detailed Guide to Major Sacred Sites

Takachiho Gorge (Takachiho Kyō)

Appearance in the Film

Takachiho Gorge plays an important role in the climactic scene of the film. An emotional scene where the two protagonists gaze at Manai Falls while confirming their true feelings for each other was filmed here.

Characteristics of the Spot

A gorge formed by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso, with cliffs 80-100 meters high continuing for approximately 7 kilometers. In particular, Manai Falls is selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, and the clear water flowing down from a height of 17 meters creates a mystical atmosphere.

You can experience the film’s scenes by renting a boat to tour within the gorge. The new green season (April-May) and autumn foliage period (November) are particularly beautiful, and visiting during the same season as filming allows you to feel the film’s atmosphere even more.

Access Information

• Address: Mitai Goshioii, Takachiho Town, Nishi-Usuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture
• 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 yen)
• Boat Fare: 3,000 yen for 30 minutes (3-person boat)
• Business Hours: 8:30~17:00 (Final check-in at 16:30)

Pilgrimage Tips

Boats are popular and may have waiting times of 1-2 hours on weekends. It’s best to visit early in the morning or make an advance reservation if possible. Additionally, a well-maintained walking trail runs along the gorge, making a leisurely hike also recommended.

Amano Iwato Shrine (Ama no Iwato Jinja)

Appearance in the Film

The protagonists appear at this shrine, troubled about “friendship,” and pray there. As a sacred site of mythology, the scene marks an important turning point where the two’s relationship progresses to a new stage.

Characteristics of the Spot

A shrine enshrining the “Heavenly Rock Cave” where Amaterasu Ōmikami is said to have hidden, with both a West Main Shrine and East Main Shrine. The film primarily used the West Main Shrine for filming. From the shrine grounds, the Heavenly Rock Cave can be observed across the Iwato River (direct viewing is not possible, but Shinto priests offer guided viewing).

About a 10-minute walk from the shrine, “Ama no Yasukawara” is a cave where it is said the eight million deities gathered to consult, presenting a fantastical landscape with countless stones piled up. It is featured in an impressive scene in the film.

Access Information

• Address: 1073-1 Iwato, Takachiho Town, Nishi-Usuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture
• Approximately 15 minutes by car from Takachiho Gorge
• Parking: Free
• Visiting Hours: Open (Shrine Office 8:30~17:00)
• Sacred Object Viewing: By Reservation (Free, approximately 20 minutes)

Pilgrimage Tips

A visit to Ama no Yasukawara is highly recommended. The approximately 10-minute walk along the riverside trail is a wonderful experience allowing you to feel the film’s atmosphere. There is a custom of stacking stones, but please do so carefully to prevent them from falling.

Aoshima Shrine (Aoshima Jinja)

Appearance in the Film

The shrine appears in a midfilm scene where the protagonists create summer memories. The striking contrast between the bright red shrine building and the blue sea is depicted as an impressive scene.

Characteristics of the Spot

An entire small island with a circumference of 1.5 kilometers serves as the shrine grounds, surrounded by wave-patterned rocks called “the Demon’s Washboard.” Known as a shrine for matchmaking, many visitors come to pray for romantic fulfillment.

The island is densely vegetated with subtropical plants, characterized by a tropical atmosphere. In the film, scenes of the protagonists walking the approach and conversing on the beach were filmed.

Access Information

• Address: 2-13-1 Aoshima, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
• Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Aoshima Station
• Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Airport
• Parking: Paid parking available nearby (approximately 500 yen)
• Visiting Hours: Open (Shrine Office 6:00~ sunset)

Pilgrimage Tips

At low tide, the “Demon’s Washboard” appears more expansively, so it’s good to check the tides before visiting. The view from the bridge connecting to the island is also spectacular, making it an ideal photography spot.

Nichinan Coast (Nichinan Kaigan)

Appearance in the Film

Scenes where the protagonists go on a drive date show beautiful coastline. Scenes in front of the Moai statues at Sunmesse Nichinan are particularly featured on movie posters.

Characteristics of the Spot

A coastline spanning approximately 100 kilometers from Miyazaki City to Kushima City, designated as the Nippo Coast Quasi-National Park. An unobstructed scenic drive continues where blue sea and sky, and green mountains interweave, making it one of Kyushu’s finest driving courses.

Sunmesse Nichinan features seven Easter Island-certified completely replicated Moai statues, each said to bring different benefits. In the film, an impressive scene shows the protagonists discussing their future in front of the Moai statues.

Access Information

• Address (Sunmesse Nichinan): 2650 Miyaura, Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture
• Approximately 40 minutes by car from Miyazaki City
• Parking: Free
• Business Hours: 9:30~17:00
• Admission: Adults 800 yen, High School Students 500 yen, Elementary Students 350 yen

Pilgrimage Tips

Along the Nichinan Coast, there are many other notable sites such as Udo Shrine. With time to spare, it’s recommended to leisurely drive along the coast while visiting multiple spots.

Area Around Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo

Appearance in the Film

Scenes depicting the protagonists’ daily life show them on a zoo date. The scene captures an enjoyable youthful atmosphere.

Characteristics of the Spot

A zoo located on a high area overlooking the Pacific Ocean, raising approximately 1,200 animals of about 100 species. The views from within the garden are also wonderful, and in the film, the views from the observation platform are used effectively.

Access Information

• Address: 3083-42 Shiorohamayama, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
• Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Station
• Parking: Free
• Business Hours: 9:00~17:00 (Admission until 16:30)
• Admission: Adults 840 yen, Middle School Students 420 yen, Elementary Students 310 yen
• Closed: Wednesdays (Following day if Wednesday is a holiday)

Pilgrimage Tips

Since the grounds are extensive, it’s efficient to confirm scenes featured in the film beforehand. The view from the observation restaurant in particular is spectacular, and lunch is also recommended.

Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses

1-Night, 2-Day Course (Recommended)

Day 1: Takachiho Area

• 10:00 Arrive at Takachiho Gorge, boat experience (2 hours)
• 12:30 Lunch in Takachiho Town (flowing noodles or local cuisine)
• 14:00 Visit Amano Iwato Shrine
• 15:00 Walk through Ama no Yasukawara
• 16:30 Visit Takachiho Shrine
• 18:00 Check into accommodation
• 20:00 Watch Takachiho Kagura (night kagura, reservation 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 en route
• 14:00 Sunmesse Nichinan (Moai statues)
• 16:00 Head to Miyazaki Airport or Miyazaki Station

Day Trip Course (Centered on Miyazaki City)

If time is limited, a day trip course focused on Miyazaki City and the Nichinan Coast is also possible.

• 9:00 Aoshima Shrine
• 11:00 Nichinan Coast drive
• 13:00 Sunmesse Nichinan
• 15:00 Phoenix Natural Zoo
• 17:00 Dinner in Miyazaki City

2-Night, 3-Day Enriching Course

For those with time to spare, a 2-night, 3-day course allowing deeper enjoyment of Miyazaki is recommended. In addition to the above 1-night, 2-day course, you can also visit nearby tourist attractions such as Udo Shrine, Obi Castle Town, and Toii Cape.

Preparation and Notes for Sacred Site Pilgrimage

Packing List

• Camera/Smartphone: Essential for commemorative photos at sacred sites
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Long distances of walking at shrines and gorges
• Sunscreen and Hat: Miyazaki has strong sunlight
• Rain Gear: Particularly important in mountainous areas where weather changes frequently
• Beverages: Especially for heat stroke prevention in summer
• Mobile Battery: Photos consume much battery
• Movie Pamphlets or Screenshots: Convenient for identifying filming locations

Best Seasons

Spring (March~May)

• New greenery is beautiful and the climate is warm and comfortable
• The new foliage of Takachiho Gorge is particularly magnificent
• Note that Golden Week is crowded

Summer (June~August)

• Perfect for re-experiencing ocean scenes
• Strong sunlight requires heat stroke precautions
• Watch for rain during the rainy season (June~early July)

Autumn (September~November)

• Autumn foliage at Takachiho Gorge is beautiful (mid-November~late November)
• Stable climate, ideal season for tourism
• Particularly recommended season

Winter (December~February)

• Fewer tourists allow leisurely pilgrimage
• The Takachiho region gets cold, requiring warm clothing
• The scenery under clear winter skies is exceptional

Manners and Notes

Shrine Visiting Etiquette

• Bow once before passing through the torii gate
• Walk on the edges of the approach, as the center is the path of the deity
• Purify hands and mouth at the water basin
• Do not photograph in no-photo areas
• Avoid loud voices

Environmental Consideration

• Always take trash with you
• Do not pick or damage plants
• Stay on designated walking paths
• Do not feed wild animals

Consideration for Local Residents

• Do not trespass on private property
• Act quietly in residential areas
• Do not park on roadways
• Respect the local community’s way of life

Enhancing Your Enjoyment of Sacred Sites in Miyazaki Prefecture

Enjoying Miyazaki Cuisine

Enjoy delicious Miyazaki cuisine along with your sacred site pilgrimage.

Chicken Nanban
A popular dish originating in Miyazaki Prefecture. Chicken nanban with generous tartar sauce can be enjoyed at various locations throughout the prefecture. Restaurants in Nobeoka City, where the dish is said to have originated, and famous establishments in Miyazaki City are particularly recommended.

Miyazaki Beef
A nationally famous brand beef. Enjoy it luxuriously as steak or grilled meat, or try reasonably-priced lunch set menus.

Charcoal-grilled Local Chicken
A standard menu item at Miyazaki izakayas. Experience the savory richness of local chicken.

Cold Broth Soup (Hiyajiru)
A Miyazaki regional dish. Particularly recommended in summer for its refreshing flavor.

Mango
Miyazaki Prefecture is known for fully ripened mangoes. During peak season (June~August), you can enjoy mangoes with concentrated sweetness.

How to Choose Accommodations

Takachiho Area
Hotels and hot spring inns are available around Takachiho Gorge. If planning to watch kagura performances, staying in Takachiho Town is convenient.

Miyazaki City
Numerous hotels are located near Miyazaki Station and in entertainment districts, with abundant dining options. Convenient location for next-day travel.

Nichinan Coast Area
Many oceanview accommodations offer a resort atmosphere. However, access to Miyazaki City or Takachiho is somewhat inconvenient.

Transportation Options

Rental Car (Most Recommended)
As sacred sites are spread widely, rental car travel is most efficient. Many rental companies are located near Miyazaki Airport and Miyazaki Station.

Public Transportation
Though time-consuming, buses and trains can access major sacred sites. However, some routes have infrequent service, so check schedules in advance.

Sightseeing Taxi
For those uncomfortable driving or seeking efficient touring, sightseeing taxis are recommended. Local drivers provide guidance and may share hidden gem spots beyond film locations.

Recommended Nearby Spots

Notable Miyazaki Prefecture attractions to visit alongside sacred site pilgrimage.

Udo Shrine (Udo Jingu)

A unique shrine with its main hall in a cave facing the Pacific Ocean. Said to bring benefits for safe childbirth and matchmaking, the shrine is famous for throwing “fortune balls” in prayer. The striking contrast between the red shrine building and blue sea makes for excellent photos.

Toii Cape (Toii Misaki)

A cape inhabited by wild Misaki horses, offering pastoral scenery. Though not directly featured in the film, it conveys the richness of Miyazaki’s nature.

Obi Castle Town (Obi Jō Kamachi)

A historic town preserving the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle town. Preserved samurai residences and merchant houses create a time-travel atmosphere.

Miyazaki Shrine

An ancient shrine enshrining Emperor Jinmu, with hundreds of year-old trees dotting its expansive grounds. Located in Miyazaki City for convenient access.

Ways to Preserve Memories from Sacred Site Pilgrimage

Photography Tips

Recreating Film Scenes
Photographing the same angles as movie scenes makes pilgrimage memories more vivid. Review the film beforehand and note the composition of impressive scenes.

Considering Time of Day
Early morning and sunset create particularly beautiful photos. Takachiho Gorge and the Nichinan Coast display completely different appearances depending on lighting.

Including People
Including fellow pilgrims or family members in photos alongside landscapes creates more treasured memories.

Collecting Shrine Stamps (Goshuin)

Collecting shrine stamps as commemoration of visits is also recommended. Shrines around Takachiho Gorge offer uniquely designed stamps. Bring a stamp book to preserve the evidence of your pilgrimage.

Sharing on Social Media

Sharing pilgrimage experiences on Instagram or Twitter is part of the enjoyment. Using hashtags like “#男女の友情は成立する” or “#宮崎聖地巡礼” connects you with fans of the same work.

However, avoid posts with spoilers, respecting those yet to see the film. Also refrain from posting photos from no-photography areas.

Trivia for Deeper Film Understanding

The Relationship Between Miyazaki Prefecture and Mythology

Miyazaki Prefecture, called “Hyuga Province,” holds an important place in Japanese mythology. Numerous myths are preserved here, including Amaterasu’s Heavenly Rock Cave legend, the story of Yamasachihiko and Umisachihiko, and Emperor Jinmu’s departure point for his eastern expedition.

The film functions by using this mythological background as a symbolic device to express the protagonists’ relationship transformation. The shift from “friendship” to “romantic love” parallels the mythological themes of “transformation” and “rebirth.”

Behind-the-Scenes of Location Selection

According to the film’s producer, location selection took approximately six months, considering over 100 candidate sites throughout Miyazaki Prefecture. The final choices expressed three themes: “mystique,” “openness,” and “youthful brilliance.”

Takachiho Gorge was particularly selected after the director saw it and strongly desired to film there. The gorge’s mystical atmosphere was judged ideal for visually expressing the protagonists’ inner turmoil.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Miyazaki Prefecture

Budget Estimates

For 1-Night, 2-Day Trip (Per Person)

• Transportation: Round-trip airfare 30,000 yen~50,000 yen (varies by departure point)
• Rental Car: 10,000 yen~15,000 yen (2 days, including gas)
• Accommodation: 8,000 yen~15,000 yen (1 night)
• Meals: 5,000 yen~8,000 yen (2 days)
• Attraction Admission: Approximately 3,000 yen
• Total: 56,000 yen~91,000 yen

Sharing a rental car with others reduces transportation costs. Early booking discounts on airfare and hotels provide savings.

Discount Passes and Coupons

Miyazaki Prefecture offers discount coupons and regional pass options for attractions. Check the Miyazaki Prefectural Tourism Association’s official site and local government tourism sites for current information.

Some rental car companies offer packages including discounts at attractions. Confirm availability when booking.

Booking Timing

Airfare
Booking 1-2 months before departure often qualifies for early-bird discounts. Especially with LCCs, earlier booking saves money.

Accommodations
Popular lodgings fill quickly, so book early once dates are set. Weekends, holidays, and peak seasons (spring and autumn) are particularly crowded.

Rental Cars
Vehicle shortages may occur during busy periods, so book by one week prior for assurance.

Conclusion: The Special Experience Gained from Miyazaki Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage

Sacred site pilgrimage for “Can the Friendship Between Men and Women Be Established? (No, It Can’t!!)” offers value beyond mere location visits. Miyazaki’s beautiful nature, mystically-colored mythology, and warm encounters with local people will make your journey extraordinary.

Just as the film’s protagonists wavered between “friendship” and “romance,” visiting the sites may prompt reflection on your own relationships and emotions. Takachiho Gorge’s mystical landscape, Aoshima Shrine’s matchmaking benefits, the Nichinan Coast’s openness—each location speaks something to you.

Through Miyazaki’s sacred site pilgrimage, create cherished memories while re-experiencing the film’s world. This article hopes to support your wonderful pilgrimage.

Prepare yourself and head to Miyazaki’s beautiful sacred sites. An unforgettable experience awaits.