Located in the northern part of Japan’s first designated Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, the 1200m-high Ebino Highlands sprawls across the south of Ebino City. Also known as nature’s wonderland, it is one of the leading tourist areas in Miyazaki Prefecture. The highlands expand throughout the foot of many small and large mountains such as the popular trekking spots Mount Karakunidake and Mount Koshikidake, and scattered across its plains are several volcanic ponds including Fudo Pond, Rokkannonmiike Pond, and Byakushi Pond. From spring to early summer, you can enjoy the world’s only naturally growing and protected species of rosaceae called Malus spontanea and the Rhododendron kiusianum that is synonymous with Kirishima, as well as the Magnolia Sieboldii, Japanese Stewartia (deciduous camellia) and other plants and flowers. Then in autumn, the highlands come alive in the vibrant hues of autumn foliage; there is stunning scenery to enjoy throughout the year at the Ebino Highlands.
In the north of the highlands is the popular auto camping spot, the Yatake Highlands. Other fun activities include yamame trout fishing along the uppermost stream of the Sendaigawa River that flows through the city, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in the more gently flowing parts of the river.