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

The movie “Can Male-Female Friendship Exist? (No, It Can’t!!)” is a coming-of-age love story that unfolds against the backdrop of beautiful nature and mystical spots in Miyazaki Prefecture. This article provides a detailed introduction to sacred sites within Miyazaki Prefecture featured in the work, along with practical information for actually visiting them on a pilgrimage.

About the Movie “Can Male-Female Friendship Exist? (No, It Can’t!!)”

Released in 2024, this work is a romantic movie themed around male-female friendship. The story depicts the main characters growing while struggling with a “more than friends, less than lovers” relationship, set against the grand natural landscape of Miyazaki Prefecture.

The appeal of the movie lies not only in the delicate psychological portrayal of the characters, but also in the breathtaking beautiful scenery of Miyazaki Prefecture. The director stated that “Miyazaki’s mystical atmosphere was perfect for expressing the wavering emotions of the main characters,” and great care is evident in the selection of filming locations.

Why Miyazaki Prefecture Was Chosen as a Sacred Site

Miyazaki Prefecture is known as the “Birthplace of Japanese Mythology,” and many locations that served as settings for myths appearing in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki exist there. The film production team sought to express deeper narrative meaning by overlaying the subtle emotions of transformation from male-female friendship to romance onto Miyazaki’s mythical and mysterious landscapes.

In particular, the Takachiho region is famous for the “Amateras Iwato Legend” of Amaterasu Ōmikami, and appears in the work as a location symbolizing a turning point in human relationships. Additionally, the open seascapes of Aoshima and the Nichinan Coast are used in important scenes where the main characters take new steps forward.

Main Sacred Sites Detailed Guide

Takachiho Gorge (Takachihō Kyō)

Scenes Appearing in the Movie

Takachiho Gorge plays an important role in the movie’s climax. A moving scene was filmed where the two main characters confirm their true feelings for each other while gazing at Manai Falls.

Characteristics of the Spot

A gorge formed by volcanic activity of Mount Aso, with cliffs 80-100 meters high continuing for approximately 7 kilometers. Manai Falls in particular was selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls and creates a mystical atmosphere with its pure water falling 17 meters.

You can take a rental boat to tour the gorge and re-experience one of the movie’s scenes. The season of fresh greenery (April-May) and the autumn foliage period (November) are especially beautiful, and visiting in the same season as filming allows you to feel the movie’s atmosphere even more.

Access Information

• Address: Miyazaki Prefecture, Nishi-Usuki District, Takachiho Town, Mitai Oishio
• 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 Fares: 3,000 yen for 30 minutes (capacity 3 people)
• Operating Hours: 8:30-17:00 (last admission 16:30)

Pilgrimage Tips

Boats are very popular and may have 1-2 hour waits, especially on holidays. Try to arrive early in the morning or use advance reservations if available. The footpaths along the gorge are also well-maintained, and walking tours are recommended.

Amanomiwato Shrine (Amanomiwato Jinja)

Scenes Appearing in the Movie

The main characters appear visiting the shrine to pray while troubled about “friendship.” At this sacred location of mythology, the turning point appears where the relationship between the two characters progresses to a new stage.

Characteristics of the Spot

A shrine that enshrines the “Amanomiwato” (Heavenly Rock Cave) where Amaterasu Ōmikami is said to have hidden as the object of worship. There are a west and east main shrine, with the west main shrine primarily used for filming. From the grounds, you can worship the Amanomiwato across the Iwato River (direct viewing is not possible, but viewing is available with a guide from shrine priests).

About a 10-minute walk from the shrine lies “Amanoyasukawara (Plain of the Heavenly Peaceful River),” a cave where it is said the eight million gods gathered to consult, with an otherworldly scene of countless stacked stones spread before you. This was also used in an impressive scene in the movie.

Access Information

• Address: Miyazaki Prefecture, Nishi-Usuki District, Takachiho Town, Iwato 1073-1
• Approximately 15 minutes by car from Takachiho Gorge
• Parking: Free
• Visitation Hours: Anytime (shrine office 8:30-17:00)
• Object of Worship Viewing: Reservation required (free, approximately 20 minutes)

Pilgrimage Tips

It is highly recommended to extend your visit to Amanoyasukawara. The approximately 10-minute walk along the riverside path is a wonderful experience where you can feel the movie’s atmosphere. There is a custom of stacking stones, but be careful to stack them so they don’t collapse.

Aoshima Shrine (Aoshima Jinja)

Scenes Appearing in the Movie

The shrine appears in the middle of the movie in a scene where the main characters create summer memories. It is depicted as an impressive scene with contrasting vivid scarlet shrine buildings and blue sea.

Characteristics of the Spot

An entire small island with a circumference of 1.5 kilometers serves as the shrine grounds, surrounded by mysteriously shaped rock formations called the “Oni no Sentakuita” (Demon’s Washboard). Known as a shrine for matchmaking, many visitors come to pray for romantic fulfillment.

The island is thick with subtropical vegetation, characterized by a tropical atmosphere. In the movie, scenes of the main characters walking along the approach path and having conversations on the beach were filmed.

Access Information

• Address: Miyazaki Prefecture, Miyazaki City, Aoshima 2-13-1
• Approximately 10 minutes walk from JR Aoshima Station
• Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Airport
• Parking: Paid parking lots in surrounding area (approximately 500 yen)
• Visitation Hours: Anytime (shrine office 6:00 AM-sunset)

Pilgrimage Tips

At low tide, the “Oni no Sentakuita” appears more broadly, so checking the tidal schedule before visiting is a good idea. The view from the bridge to the island is also spectacular, making it an ideal photo spot.

Nichinan Coast (Nichinan Kaigan)

Scenes Appearing in the Movie

Beautiful coastline is shown in scenes where the main characters go on a drive date. In particular, the scene at the moai statues in front of San Messe Nichinan was used on the movie poster.

Characteristics of the Spot

A coastline stretching approximately 100 kilometers from Miyazaki City to Kushima City, designated as a quasi-national park. A scenic drive course, one of Kyushu’s finest, unfolds with blue sea and sky, and green mountains woven together.

San Messe Nichinan features 7 complete replicas of Easter Island moai statues, each said to bestow different blessings. In the movie, an impressive scene shows the main characters discussing their futures in front of the moai statues.

Access Information

• Address (San Messe 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 yen, high school students 500 yen, elementary school students 350 yen

Pilgrimage Tips

There are many other points of interest along the Nichinan Coast, including Udo Shrine. If time permits, it is recommended to leisurely drive along the coastline while visiting multiple spots.

Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo Vicinity

Scenes Appearing in the Movie

Scenes depicting the main characters’ daily life appear, showing them on a zoo date. An impression of youthful fun and joy is conveyed.

Characteristics of the Spot

A zoo located on a highland overlooking the Pacific Ocean, home to approximately 100 species and 1,200 individual animals. The view from within the zoo is also wonderful, and the movie effectively uses the scenery from the observation deck.

Access Information

• Address: Miyazaki Prefecture, Miyazaki City, Shioji Hamayama 3083-42
• Approximately 20 minutes by car from Miyazaki Station
• Parking: Free
• Operating Hours: 9:00-17:00 (admission until 16:30)
• Admission: Adults 840 yen, junior high school students 420 yen, elementary school students 310 yen
• Closed: Wednesdays (if a holiday, closed the following day)

Pilgrimage Tips

Since the grounds are extensive, it is efficient to confirm scenes appearing in the movie beforehand. The view from the observation restaurant in particular is spectacular, so using it for 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 somen noodles or local cuisine)
• 14:00 Visit Amanomiwato Shrine
• 15:00 Amanoyasukawara exploration
• 16:30 Visit Takachiho Shrine
• 18:00 Check into accommodation
• 20:00 Watch Takachiho Kagura (night kagura performance, reservation required)

Day 2: Miyazaki City & Nichinan Coast Area

• 9:00 Depart from Miyazaki City
• 10:00 Visit Aoshima Shrine (1 hour)
• 12:00 Drive along Nichinan Coast, seafood lunch along the way
• 14:00 San Messe Nichinan (moai statues)
• 16:00 Head 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 the Nichinan Coast is also possible.

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

2 Nights, 3 Days Full Experience Course

For those with more time, a 2 nights, 3 days course allowing deeper enjoyment of Miyazaki is recommended. In addition to the above 1 night, 2 day course, you can also 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 walking distances at shrines and gorges
• Sunscreen & Hat: Miyazaki has strong sunshine
• Rain Gear: Especially important in mountainous areas with changeable weather
• Drinking Water: Particularly important for heat stroke prevention in summer
• Mobile Battery: Essential due to heavy battery consumption from photography
• Movie Pamphlets or Screenshots: Convenient for identifying filming locations

Best Seasons

Spring (March-May)

• Fresh greenery is beautiful, and weather is mild and pleasant
• New greenery at Takachiho Gorge is particularly spectacular
• Golden Week is crowded, so caution is advised

Summer (June-August)

• Ideal for re-experiencing ocean scenes
• Strong sunshine requires heat stroke precautions
• Be careful of rain during rainy season (June-early July)

Autumn (September-November)

• Autumn foliage at Takachiho Gorge is beautiful (mid to late November)
• Weather is stable and optimal for tourism
• This season is particularly recommended

Winter (December-February)

• Fewer tourists allow for leisurely pilgrimage
• Cold in Takachiho region requires warm clothing
• Scenery in clear winter air is exceptional

Manners and Precautions

Shrine Visitation Etiquette

• Bow before passing through the torii gate
• Walk along the edges of the approach path, as the center is the gods’ passage
• Purify hands and mouth at the water basin
• Do not photograph in prohibited areas
• Do not speak loudly

Environmental Consideration

• Always take trash with you
• Do not pick plants or damage them
• Do not enter areas outside designated walking paths
• Do not feed wild animals

Consideration for Local Residents

• Do not trespass on private property
• Be quiet in residential areas
• Do not park illegally
• Respect the daily life of local people

How to Enjoy Miyazaki’s Sacred Site Pilgrimage More

Enjoy Miyazaki Cuisine

Combine sacred site pilgrimage with enjoying Miyazaki’s delicious food.

Chicken Nanban
A popular dish originating from Miyazaki Prefecture. Chicken Nanban generously topped with tartar sauce can be found throughout the prefecture. Particularly recommended are restaurants in Nobeoka City, where it originated, and famous establishments in Miyazaki City.

Miyazaki Beef
A nationally famous brand beef. Enjoying it as steak or grilled beef is wonderful, and lunch set menus offer good value.

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

Hiyajiru
A Miyazaki regional dish. Particularly recommended in summer for its refreshing flavor.

Mango
Miyazaki Prefecture produces fully ripened mangoes. During peak season (June-August), you can enjoy intensely sweet mangoes.

How to Choose Accommodations

Takachiho Area
Ryokans with hot springs and business hotels are available around Takachiho Gorge. If watching night kagura performances, staying in Takachiho Town is convenient.

Miyazaki City
Numerous hotels surround Miyazaki Station and entertainment districts with abundant dining options. This location is convenient for the next day’s movements.

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

Choice of Transportation

Rental Car (Most Recommended)
Since sacred sites are dispersed widely, rental car travel is most efficient. Many rental car companies operate around Miyazaki Airport and Miyazaki Station.

Public Transportation
While time-consuming, buses and trains can access major sacred sites. However, some routes have infrequent service, so check timetables beforehand.

Sightseeing Taxi
For those unsure about driving or wanting to tour efficiently, sightseeing taxis are recommended. Local drivers provide guidance and may inform you of hidden spots beyond movie filming locations.

Recommended Nearby Spots

Interesting Miyazaki Prefecture attractions to visit alongside sacred site pilgrimage.

Udo Shrine (Udo Jingu)

A rare shrine with its main hall inside a sea cave facing the Pacific Ocean. Said to offer blessings for safe childbirth and matchmaking, it is famous for tossing “luck balls” into the cave. The contrast between scarlet shrine buildings and blue sea photographs beautifully.

Toii Cape (Toii Misaki)

A cape where wild Miyazaki horses live, with a pastoral landscape. Though not directly featured in the movie, this location allows you to feel Miyazaki Prefecture’s natural richness.

Obi Castle Town (Obi Jo Kamachi)

A historic town with Edo period castle town atmosphere preserved. With samurai residences and merchant houses maintained, you can enjoy a time-slip experience.

Miyazaki Shrine

An ancient shrine enshrining Emperor Jinmu, with vast grounds containing centuries-old trees. Located in Miyazaki City with convenient access.

Ways to Preserve Sacred Site Pilgrimage Memories

Photography Tips

Re-enacting Movie Scenes
Photographing at the same angles as movie scenes makes pilgrimage memories more vivid. Review the movie beforehand to confirm the composition of impressive scenes.

Consider Time of Day
Early morning and sunset hours produce particularly beautiful photographs. Takachiho Gorge and the Nichinan Coast reveal completely different faces depending on light conditions.

Include People in Photos
Photographing friends or family alongside landscapes creates more memorable photos than scenery alone.

Collecting Shrine Stamps (Goshuin)

Collecting shrine stamps commemorating visits is also recommended. Shrines around Takachiho Gorge offer uniquely designed stamps. Bring a stamp collection book to preserve evidence of your sacred site pilgrimage.

Social Media Sharing

Sharing your pilgrimage experiences on Instagram, Twitter and other SNS is part of the enjoyment. Using hashtags like “#Can Male-Female Friendship Exist” and “#Miyazaki Sacred Site Pilgrimage” allows you to interact with other fans of the work.

However, avoid posts that spoil the story for those yet to see the film, and refrain from posting photos from photography-prohibited areas.

Trivia for Deeper Understanding of the Movie

Miyazaki Prefecture and Mythology

Miyazaki Prefecture, known as “Hyuga Province” (Hyūga no Kuni), occupies an important position as the setting for Japanese mythology. Many myths remain in this region, including the Amateras Iwato Legend, the tale of Yamasachihiko and Umisachihiko, and Emperor Jinmu’s eastward expedition departure point.

In the movie, these mythological backgrounds function as a device symbolically expressing the characters’ relationship changes. The transformation from “friendship” to “romance” overlaps with the mythological themes of “transformation” and “rebirth.”

Behind-the-Scenes Stories of Location Selection

According to the movie’s producer, location selection took approximately six months, with over 100 candidate sites in Miyazaki Prefecture examined. The ultimately selected locations could express three themes: “mysticism,” “openness,” and “youthful brilliance.”

Takachiho Gorge in particular was a location the director strongly desired for filming upon first sight. The gorge’s mystical atmosphere was judged optimal for visually expressing the main characters’ inner turmoil.

Tips for Planning a Miyazaki Prefecture Trip

Budget Estimates

For a 1 Night, 2 Day Trip (per person)

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

Sharing a rental car with multiple people reduces transportation costs. Early booking discounts can reduce airfare and hotel expenses.

Discount Passes and Coupons

Miyazaki Prefecture offers discount coupons and sightseeing passes for attractions. Check the official Miyazaki Tourist Association website and municipal tourism sites for latest information.

Additionally, some rental car companies offer plans with included attraction discount tickets. Confirm when making reservations.

Booking Timing for Travel

Airfare
Booking 1-2 months before departure often qualifies for early bird discounts. Particularly with LCCs, earlier booking is more economical.

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

Rental Cars
Vehicles may be insufficient during busy periods, so book at least a week in advance for peace of mind.

Conclusion: Special Experiences from Miyazaki Sacred Site Pilgrimage

The sacred site pilgrimage for “Can Male-Female Friendship Exist? (No, It Can’t!!)” holds value beyond merely visiting filming locations. Miyazaki Prefecture’s beautiful nature, atmosphere enriched by mythology, and encounters with warm local people will make your trip truly special.

Just as the movie’s main characters wavered between “friendship” and “romance,” visiting these sacred sites may provide you an opportunity to reconsider your own relationships and feelings. Takachiho Gorge’s mystical scenery, Aoshima Shrine’s matchmaking blessings, and the Nichinan Coast’s open seascape—each location will speak something to you.

Through Miyazaki’s sacred site pilgrimage, re-experience the movie’s world while creating your own treasured memories. I hope this article assists your wonderful sacred site pilgrimage journey.

Prepare yourself and head to Miyazaki’s beautiful sacred sites. Unforgettable experiences surely await you.