Nichinan Coast, Miyazaki Prefecture
Horikiri Pass My soft serve’s melting before I even see the sea
Looking down over the sea from Horikiri Pass, I could see ridges of rock stretching far along the coast below. I wanted to take in the view properly, but my mango soft serve was already starting to melt in my hand. Trying to enjoy both the scenery and my snack made for a slightly hectic summer detour.
Read about the summer scenery in August and my little detour.
SummerSummer, August
Mango Soft Serve and a Summer Seaside Stop
I stopped at Horikiri Pass to see the sea, but my attention went straight to the mango soft serve in my hand. A drop was just starting to slide down its side. I quickly cupped my other hand underneath and took a bite. I hadn’t even had time to enjoy the breeze yet.
When I finally looked up, the sea stretched out before me. Phoenix palm fronds swayed, and waves broke beyond them. The ridges didn’t stop at the nearby rocks; they ran on far down the coast. The view stretched farther than I’d imagined, and I caught my breath.
So those rocks are the Devil’s Washboard. When I first heard the name, I pictured somewhere to do laundry, but when I saw them from above, I understood why they were called that. I spent a while following the waves as they spread along the ridges.
Meanwhile, my soft serve wasn’t waiting for me. I was so caught up in the view that I completely forgot about my next bite. I readjusted my grip on the cone and took a bite. The sweetness of the mango filled my mouth, reminding me why I wanted to eat it here.
I thought I’d eaten quickly, but I took my time with the last bite. Once my hands were free, I could focus on nothing but the view. Listening to the waves, I thought back to how flustered I’d been a moment earlier and had to smile.
Before heading back, I looked out at the sea one more time. This time, I could really take in the waves beyond the phoenix palms and the ridges stretching into the distance. When there’s something delicious to eat, I want to make the most of this stop, too. Next time, I’ll make time for both the soft serve and the sea from the start.
The story sections are fiction inspired by this location. For accurate information, please consult official tourism and information websites.
Local specialties
Soft serve at Roadside Station Phoenix
Soft serve comes in local flavors like Miyazaki mango and premium Hyuganatsu citrus. I chose mango, and between eating it and taking in the view, I had my hands full.
Highlights
Devil’s Washboard
Long ridges of rock run parallel to the coast. I’d heard the name before, but I was still amazed by how vast they looked when I saw them from above.
Phoenix Palms and the Sea
Rows of phoenix palms are another highlight at Horikiri Pass. Beyond the trees, the sea opens up—a view that makes me glad I stopped.
Getting there and the drive
From National Route 220 onto Prefectural Route 377
- Route from central Miyazaki City
- Head south on National Route 220, then take Prefectural Route 377.
- Location
- Oryūzako, Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture
From central Miyazaki City, head south on National Route 220. Horikiri Pass is where Prefectural Route 377 comes out of the mountains and reaches the coast. As soon as the sea comes into view, I want to stop and take it in.
A Nichinan-bound bus from Miyakō City takes 35 minutes to reach Horikiri Pass. I want to pair that sea view with a snack from nearby Roadside Station Phoenix.
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