J-Trip Plan

A Mystical Land of Myths & Getting around Japan

Our reporter explores the mystique of Takachiho, Miyazaki Pref., where deities descended to earth. He rows to a divine waterfall and views a sea of clouds at dawn from 500m high. Later he takes in kagura song and dance performed in gratitude for the harvests. At a pension he makes a bamboo container to be filled with chicken for a meal with the deities. And, our correspondent gives advice on navigating the often-confusing trains, then we look at luxurious bus travel using inexpensive passes.