Sun Messe Nichinan — Moai Statues Overlooking Pacific

Published: Jun 1, 2026

Updated: Jun 1, 2026

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Sun Messe Nichinan — Moai Statues Overlooking Pacific

Sun Messe Nichinan is a hillside park featuring seven full-scale Moai statues — officially licensed replicas of Easter Island's famous heads, standing 5.5 meters tall and facing the Pacific Ocean. The statues were a gift from Chile in gratitude for Japan's aid in restoring the original Moai. Each statue represents a different fortune (work, health, love, marriage, money, achievement, family).

The surreal sight of Moai on a Japanese hillside makes this one of Miyazaki's most unusual photo opportunities.

Opening Hours

9:30–17:00

Closed: Open daily year-round

Entrance Fee

¥1,000. Parking free.

Best Season

Late afternoon (15:00–17:00) for side-lighting on Moai faces; combine with Udo Jingu (10 min away) for half-day Nichinan coast itinerary

Visit Duration

45–60 minutes for full park walk and all 7 Moai

Getting There

Access Information

2650 Miyaura, Nichinan City. 10-min drive from Udo Jingu (same coastal route). Entry: ¥1,000. Hours: 9:30–17:00. Parking free.

Insider Guide

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**Best time for photos:** Late afternoon (15:00–17:00) provides side-lighting that creates shadows on the Moai faces, adding depth and drama. The Pacific Ocean background and coastal cliffs complete t