Sunmesse Nichinan is a theme park on a hill in the Miyazaki prefecture’s coastal city of Nichinan. The park provides a stunning panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
An unexpected find on this island are the 10 Moai statues, which are known for their presence on Easter Island.
From Moai statues to a petting farm to even a hot spring, there is plenty to explore at Sunmesse Nichinan.
About Sunmesse Nichinan
In 1996, Sunmesse Nichinan was created to promote world peace and to liven up the town of Nichinan. The area was used as a farm for Wagyu beef cattle from 1969, but closed down in 1987.
In 1992, after a Japanese company helped the reparation of Moai statues, Easter Island allowed the Japanese to replicate the Moai statues.
The replicas were then scheduled to be built in the Nichinan area, and were completed alongside with the opening of Sunmesse Nichinan.
The 10 Moai Statues
The Moai Statues
The Moai Statues at Sunmesse Nichinan are definitely a must see! Seven statues face the ocean, and three are on a slope, to resemble the geographical structure of Easter Island.
Look closely and you’ll find that each statue has different facial expressions and heights!
Moai Statues in Japan?
On Easter Island, there are over 1000 Moai statues scattered across the land. Many of these holy statues were destroyed or fallen due to tribal fights and earthquakes.
A Japanese company stepped forward to repair these statues, and as an act of gratuity, Japan was allowed to replicate the Moai statues.
The Seven Ahu Akivi Statues
The Ahu Akivi statues
The seven Moai statues on the coast are called the Ahu Akivi statues. Each of the seven statues bring luck in different ways, and touching them is said to bring you luck.
From the left, each of the statues brings luck in: business, health, love, dreams, marriage, wealth and education. Find the Moai that will grant your wishes!
Sights to see at Sunmesse Nichinan
The Tower of the Sky and the Steps of the Sun
The view from Tower of the Sky
On a slightly steep hill is the Tower of the Sky, an observatory where you can view the entire park. From the observatory you can see the seven Moai statues and the Pacific Ocean.
Climbing even further up from the Tower of the Sky, you will reach the Steps of the Sun, where another great view awaits.
Earth Appreciation Bell
The Earth Appreciation Bell
At the highest point of the park, you will find the Earth Appreciation Bell.
The bell was made from the donation of 17 different religious organizations to symbolize overcoming religious differences to reach peace.
The Seven Colorful Men
"The Seven Colorful Men"
On the central area of the hill are colorful statues of seven men. The statues are collectively named “The people watching the Moai and the ocean”.
Pick your favorite colorful man and take a photo!
Petting Farm
Sunmesse Petting farm
At the Petting Farm, you can get cuddly with animals like cows and donkeys. The petting farm is fun for people of all ages.
Swings
The view of the Pacific Ocean
Go on the swings on the middle of the hill to enjoy the crisp Nichinan air! From the swings you can see the Moai statues and of course, the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
Ride the Round Car around the park!
Sunmesse Round car
The whole park has many hills, and could be a stressful to get around for children and older visitors.
You can rent out a round car for easy access throughout the park! You don’t need a driver’s license to drive a round car.
【Fees】
First 30 minutes: ¥1000
Every additional 30 minutes: ¥300
Arashi no Yu
At Arashi no Yu, you can bathe in hot springs baths that will leave your skin baby smooth. The hot springs contain over 15 different minerals that are good for your skin.
Bathing in the waters will help you de-stress and achieve beautiful skin.
Arashi no Yu has towels and yukata (summer kimono) prepared, so you don’t have to worry about bringing a lot of stuff.
【Fees】
General (junior high school and above): ¥1200
Children (elementary school and below): ¥600
Events
Kangetsu-sai (Sep.)
Every September, the Moai statues are lit up for this special event. Along with the illuminated Moai statues, there are performances held throughout the park.
This is the only time of the year where you can see statues glow!
Access
Nearest station: Sunmesse Nichinan Stop
From Miyazaki Station
【Miyazaki Sta.】(Bus) Miyazaki Kohtsu Local Bus / for Obi
→【Sunmesse Nichinan Stop】→ about a 10-minute walk
From Nichinan Station
【Nichinan Sta.】(Bus) Miyazaki Kohtsu Local Bus / for Miyazaki Sta.
→【Sunmesse Nichinan Stop】→ about a 10-minute walk
From Miyazaki Airport
【Miyazaki Airport Sta.】(Bus) Miyazaki Kohtsu Local Bus / for Obi
→【Sunmesse Nichinan Stop】→ about a 10-minute walk
Have fun all day long!
The Moai Statues of Easter Island already make Sunmesse Nichinan worth visiting. However, aside from the statues, there are many more attractions, such as ranches and onsens. We guarantee that you will not be bored even for a second upon your visit!
Information
2650 Miyaura, Nichinan, Miyazaki
0987-29-1900
9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.
First and third Wednesdays (Excluding August and national holidays)
General: ¥700 Junior high school students: ¥500 Children (4 years old and up): ¥300
http://www.sun-messe.co.jp
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