In true Kyushu fashion, nightlife in Miyazaki is a lively affair that easily spills over onto the streets. With the city being smaller than the other prefectural capitals, the night district is much smaller yet it is still colourful and filled with various entertainment options and unique food stands. To get the most out of your night in this beach town, we recommend you stay near Miyazaki Station and head straight for the Tachibana Dori District.
The west side nishi is the livelier side of the area and offers the most izakayas and bar, especially those open til the early morning. The east side higashi is quieter and a lot of the shops close early, although there are a few options on this side as well. Run by Sean, a New Zealander and longtime resident of Miyazaki, this is the go-to place to enjoy an international atmosphere that includes a pool table, darts, and pub-style food like the generous plate of fish and chips.
The staff are quick to point out that the fish is Mahi Mahi and sourced from a local fishmonger not far from the bar. Although it is an international bar in essence, you will find a good selection of the best shochu from Miyazaki and a surprisingly good crowd of Japanese visitors along with the foreigners who frequent The Bar.
The mood in here is so chilled that you can easily spend the whole night mingling with the locals. On the Nishi Tachibana, Celts is the Irish Pub in the city for those who enjoy a cold beer while watching sports on the tv screen. If the indoor fun is not enough, your time will also be well spent strolling along Nishitachi and Sun Valley Streets.
You can choose to walk into one of the countless izakayas on both of the streets, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. A must-try snack while exploring this district is the nikumaki, a rice roll covered with a strip of beef and topped with melted cheese or other toppings of your choice. This late night gourmet deli shop stocks foreign cheeses, cured meats, and high end beers and wines among many other international and Japanese gourmet snacks.
