高千穂を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・概要・10の質問・詳細情報を通して、神話の里 高千穂に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 地理
- 高千穂は日本の九州地方、宮崎県北西部に位置
- 山々に囲まれた自然豊かな地域
- 日本神話との関連
- 高千穂は日本神話の重要な舞台とされている
- 天孫降臨の伝説が有名で、神々の子孫が天から地上に降りてきたとされる
- 主要な観光スポット
- 高千穂峡：V字型の渓谷で、ボートツアーが人気
- 天岩戸神社：天照大神が隠れたとされる洞窟に関連する神社
- 高千穂神社：夜神楽が行われる重要な神社
- 文化的特徴
- 高千穂神楽（夜神楽）は、地域の重要な伝統芸能
- アクセス
- 都市部からは少し離れており、主に熊本や宮崎からバスや車でアクセスする
- 観光シーズン
- 春と秋が人気、秋は雲海が見られることがある
2人が高千穂について話しています。
神話の里 高千穂の神話との関連や観光スポットの高千穂峡、真名井の滝、天岩戸神社、夜神楽などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Key, I’ve been reading about Takachiho recently. It sounds like an amazing place! Do you know much about it?
Yeah, Takachiho is incredible, especially if you’re into Japanese mythology. It’s famous for being the place where Ninigi no Mikoto descended from the heavens. The whole area feels really mystical.
That’s what caught my attention! I read that it’s also known for its beautiful gorge, right?
Exactly, the Takachiho Gorge is probably the most famous spot there. The cliffs are steep, and the Manai Waterfall is stunning. You can even take a boat ride along the river, which gives you an amazing view from below.
That sounds fantastic. I’d love to experience the gorge from the water. Is the area easy to get to, though? It seems a bit remote.
It is a bit out of the way, but you can get there by car or bus from Kumamoto or Miyazaki. It’s a couple of hours by bus, so not too bad if you plan a day trip or stay overnight.
Good to know. I also heard about this place called Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the myth of Amaterasu. What’s that about?
That’s right! According to legend, Amaterasu, the sun goddess, hid in a cave there, and that’s why the shrine was built. It’s a really spiritual place, and they even have a guide who explains the mythology behind it.
Wow, I didn’t realize the area had such deep spiritual significance. I’ve always been interested in Japan’s myths and legends, so this sounds perfect.
If you’re into that, you should also check out the Takachiho Yokagura. It’s a traditional dance performance that reenacts these old myths, and it’s performed at Takachiho Shrine. I saw it once, and it’s really impressive, especially how they tell the story through dance.
That sounds amazing! Do they perform it year-round?
Yes, they perform it almost every night at Takachiho Shrine, especially for tourists. It’s a unique cultural experience.
I’m also curious about the best time to visit. I’d love to see the gorge and maybe catch some of the local culture.
Spring and autumn are great. In autumn, you can even see the sea of clouds from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck. The view of the mountains covered in mist is just breathtaking.
That must be beautiful! I’d love to capture that on camera. Is there anything else to do in Takachiho besides the nature and the mythology?
Well, you could visit Takachiho Farm. It’s a working farm where you can taste local produce and even participate in some farming activities like fruit picking. It’s pretty relaxing, and the scenery is great, too.
That sounds like a nice break after exploring the shrines and the gorge. I’ve always enjoyed farm experiences. How’s the food in the area?
The local food is great! You should try Takachiho soba, which is a type of handmade buckwheat noodle. It’s simple but really tasty.
I’ll definitely try that. So, it seems like Takachiho offers a little bit of everything—nature, culture, spirituality, and even local cuisine.
Exactly. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Japan’s traditional side while enjoying the beautiful landscapes. You should definitely add it to your travel list!
I’m convinced. I’ll start planning a trip soon! Thanks, Key!
Anytime, Mack. Let me know when you go—I’d love to hear about your experience!
概要 / Overview
「高千穂」について、理解を深めるための「英語での概要」です。
高千穂
Mythical Significance
Takachiho is a small town in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, known for its strong connection to Japanese mythology. It is said to be the place where Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended from the heavens. This event, called “Tenson Kōrin,” makes Takachiho an important spiritual place for Shinto believers. The town is also home to Amano Iwato Shrine, where Amaterasu is believed to have hidden in a cave.
Natural Beauty
One of Takachiho’s main attractions is Takachiho Gorge, a beautiful valley with steep cliffs and the famous Manai Waterfall. Visitors can rent boats to explore the gorge from the water, offering a unique view of the cliffs and the waterfall. In autumn, the area becomes even more beautiful with vibrant fall colors, and visitors can also witness a sea of clouds from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck.
Cultural Experience
Takachiho is also known for its traditional performances of Yokagura, a sacred dance reenacting the myths of Shinto deities. These performances are held almost every night at Takachiho Shrine, offering visitors a chance to experience Japanese culture. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local food, such as Takachiho soba, and explore Takachiho Farm for a relaxing farm experience.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「高千穂」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is Takachiho known for?
Takachiho is known for its deep connection to Japanese mythology, particularly as the site where Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended from heaven.
2: What is the main attraction in Takachiho?
The main attraction is Takachiho Gorge, a beautiful valley with steep cliffs and the famous Manai Waterfall. Visitors can explore the gorge by boat for a unique view.
3: What is Amano Iwato Shrine?
Amano Iwato Shrine is a sacred site linked to the myth of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is said to have hidden in a cave there. It is a spiritual place in Japanese Shinto.
4: What traditional performance is popular in Takachiho?
Takachiho is famous for the Yokagura, a traditional dance that reenacts Shinto myths. It is performed at Takachiho Shrine almost every night for visitors.
5: How can visitors experience Takachiho Gorge?
Visitors can rent boats to explore Takachiho Gorge from the river, providing a close-up view of the cliffs and waterfalls. The gorge is especially beautiful in autumn.
6: What food is Takachiho famous for?
Takachiho is famous for its soba, a type of handmade buckwheat noodle that is simple but very tasty. Local restaurants serve it as a specialty.
7: How do you get to Takachiho?
Takachiho can be accessed by car or bus from nearby cities like Kumamoto or Miyazaki. It takes a couple of hours, making it ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.
8: What natural phenomenon can be seen from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck?
From Kunimigaoka Observation Deck, visitors can sometimes see the “sea of clouds,” a misty view that covers the valley, especially in the early morning.
9: What kind of activities can be done at Takachiho Farm?
At Takachiho Farm, visitors can enjoy activities like fruit picking, tasting local produce, and relaxing while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
10: When is the best time to visit Takachiho?
The best time to visit Takachiho is in spring or autumn. In autumn, the fall colors and the chance to see the sea of clouds make it particularly beautiful.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Key, I’ve been reading about Takachiho recently. It sounds like an amazing place! Do you know much about it?
キー、最近高千穂について読んだんだけど、すごく素敵な場所みたいだね！どれくらい知ってる？
Yeah, Takachiho is incredible, especially if you’re into Japanese mythology. It’s famous for being the place where Ninigi no Mikoto descended from the heavens. The whole area feels really mystical.
うん、高千穂はすごい場所だよ、特に日本の神話が好きならね。ニニギノミコトが天から降り立った場所として有名だし、全体的に神秘的な雰囲気が漂ってるんだ。
That’s what caught my attention! I read that it’s also known for its beautiful gorge, right?
それが興味を引いたんだよ！美しい渓谷でも有名だって読んだんだけど、そうだよね？
Exactly, the Takachiho Gorge is probably the most famous spot there. The cliffs are steep, and the Manai Waterfall is stunning. You can even take a boat ride along the river, which gives you an amazing view from below.
そうだね、高千穂峡はおそらく一番有名な場所だよ。崖が急で、真名井の滝もすごく美しいんだ。それに、川沿いでボートに乗ることもできて、下からの景色が本当に素晴らしいよ。
That sounds fantastic. I’d love to experience the gorge from the water. Is the area easy to get to, though? It seems a bit remote.
それはすごいね。水上から渓谷を体験してみたいな。でもアクセスはどうなの？少し遠い感じがするんだけど。
It is a bit out of the way, but you can get there by car or bus from Kumamoto or Miyazaki. It’s a couple of hours by bus, so not too bad if you plan a day trip or stay overnight.
確かにちょっと遠いけど、熊本や宮崎から車やバスで行けるよ。バスで2時間くらいだから、日帰りか一泊すればそんなに大変じゃないよ。
Good to know. I also heard about this place called Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the myth of Amaterasu. What’s that about?
それはいいね。それと、天岩戸神社っていう場所があって、天照大神の神話に関連しているって聞いたんだけど、それはどういう場所？
That’s right! According to legend, Amaterasu, the sun goddess, hid in a cave there, and that’s why the shrine was built. It’s a really spiritual place, and they even have a guide who explains the mythology behind it.
そうそう！伝説によると、天照大神がその洞窟に隠れたんだ。それで神社が建てられたんだよ。とても神聖な場所で、神話について説明してくれるガイドもいるんだ。
Wow, I didn’t realize the area had such deep spiritual significance. I’ve always been interested in Japan’s myths and legends, so this sounds perfect.
へぇ、そんなに深い精神的な意味があるとは知らなかったよ。日本の神話や伝説には前から興味があるから、完璧だね。
If you’re into that, you should also check out the Takachiho Yokagura. It’s a traditional dance performance that reenacts these old myths, and it’s performed at Takachiho Shrine. I saw it once, and it’s really impressive, especially how they tell the story through dance.
それが好きなら、高千穂夜神楽もぜひ見てみて。古い神話を再現する伝統的な舞で、高千穂神社で行われるんだよ。僕も一度見たことがあるけど、特に舞で物語を伝える様子が印象的だったよ。
That sounds amazing! Do they perform it year-round?
それはすごいね！一年中行われているの？
Yes, they perform it almost every night at Takachiho Shrine, especially for tourists. It’s a unique cultural experience.
うん、ほぼ毎晩、高千穂神社で観光客向けに行われているよ。ユニークな文化体験だよ。
I’m also curious about the best time to visit. I’d love to see the gorge and maybe catch some of the local culture.
訪れるのにベストな時期も気になるな。渓谷を見たり、地元の文化に触れたりしたいんだ。
Spring and autumn are great. In autumn, you can even see the sea of clouds from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck. The view of the mountains covered in mist is just breathtaking.
春と秋が特にいいよ。秋には国見ヶ丘展望台から雲海も見られるんだ。霧に包まれた山々の景色は本当に息をのむような美しさだよ。
That must be beautiful! I’d love to capture that on camera. Is there anything else to do in Takachiho besides the nature and the mythology?
それは美しいに違いないね！カメラで撮影してみたいな。自然や神話以外に高千穂でできることは他にもある？
Well, you could visit Takachiho Farm. It’s a working farm where you can taste local produce and even participate in some farming activities like fruit picking. It’s pretty relaxing, and the scenery is great, too.
高千穂牧場もいいよ。地元の食材を味わえたり、果物狩りのような農業体験もできる働いている牧場なんだ。結構リラックスできるし、景色もすごくいいんだよ。
That sounds like a nice break after exploring the shrines and the gorge. I’ve always enjoyed farm experiences. How’s the food in the area?
神社や渓谷を探索した後に、ちょうどいい休憩になりそうだね。僕は農場体験が好きなんだ。そこの食べ物はどう？
The local food is great! You should try Takachiho soba, which is a type of handmade buckwheat noodle. It’s simple but really tasty.
地元の食べ物はおいしいよ！高千穂そばは手作りのそばで、シンプルだけどとてもおいしいんだ。
I’ll definitely try that. So, it seems like Takachiho offers a little bit of everything—nature, culture, spirituality, and even local cuisine.
絶対それ食べてみるよ。高千穂は自然、文化、精神性、そして地元の料理まで、すべてが詰まっているみたいだね。
Exactly. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Japan’s traditional side while enjoying the beautiful landscapes. You should definitely add it to your travel list!
その通りだよ。日本の伝統的な面に浸りながら、美しい景色も楽しめる場所なんだ。旅行リストに加えるべきだよ！
I’m convinced. I’ll start planning a trip soon! Thanks, Key!
納得したよ。すぐに旅行の計画を始めるよ！ありがとう、キー！
Anytime, Mack. Let me know when you go—I’d love to hear about your experience!
いつでも、マック。行く時は教えてね。君の体験談を聞くのを楽しみにしてるよ！
概要 / Overview
高千穂
Mythical Significance
Takachiho is a small town in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, known for its strong connection to Japanese mythology. It is said to be the place where Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended from the heavens. This event, called “Tenson Kōrin,” makes Takachiho an important spiritual place for Shinto believers. The town is also home to Amano Iwato Shrine, where Amaterasu is believed to have hidden in a cave.
高千穂は日本の宮崎県にある小さな町で、日本神話との強い結びつきで知られています。天照大神の孫であるニニギノミコトが天から降臨した場所とされています。この出来事は「天孫降臨」と呼ばれ、高千穂は神道信者にとって重要な精神的な場所です。また、天照大神が洞窟に隠れたとされる天岩戸神社もあります。
Natural Beauty
One of Takachiho’s main attractions is Takachiho Gorge, a beautiful valley with steep cliffs and the famous Manai Waterfall. Visitors can rent boats to explore the gorge from the water, offering a unique view of the cliffs and the waterfall. In autumn, the area becomes even more beautiful with vibrant fall colors, and visitors can also witness a sea of clouds from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck.
高千穂の主な観光スポットの一つは、高千穂峡です。切り立った崖と有名な真名井の滝がある美しい渓谷です。訪問者はボートを借りて渓谷を水上から探索することができ、崖や滝のユニークな景色を楽しめます。秋になると、鮮やかな紅葉が広がり、国見ヶ丘展望台からは雲海を見ることができることもあります。
Cultural Experience
Takachiho is also known for its traditional performances of Yokagura, a sacred dance reenacting the myths of Shinto deities. These performances are held almost every night at Takachiho Shrine, offering visitors a chance to experience Japanese culture. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local food, such as Takachiho soba, and explore Takachiho Farm for a relaxing farm experience.
高千穂は、神道の神々の神話を再現する神聖な舞「夜神楽」でも知られています。これらの公演はほぼ毎晩、高千穂神社で行われており、訪問者は日本の文化を体験することができます。さらに、地元の料理である高千穂そばを楽しんだり、高千穂牧場を訪れてリラックスした農業体験をすることもできます。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is Takachiho known for?
高千穂は何で有名ですか？
Takachiho is known for its deep connection to Japanese mythology, particularly as the site where Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended from heaven.
高千穂は日本神話との深い関わりで知られており、特に天照大神の孫であるニニギノミコトが天から降臨した場所として有名です。
2: What is the main attraction in Takachiho?
高千穂の主な観光スポットは何ですか？
The main attraction is Takachiho Gorge, a beautiful valley with steep cliffs and the famous Manai Waterfall. Visitors can explore the gorge by boat for a unique view.
主な観光スポットは高千穂峡で、切り立った崖と有名な真名井の滝がある美しい渓谷です。ボートに乗って特別な景色を楽しむことができます。
3: What is Amano Iwato Shrine?
天岩戸神社とは何ですか？
Amano Iwato Shrine is a sacred site linked to the myth of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is said to have hidden in a cave there. It is a spiritual place in Japanese Shinto.
天岩戸神社は、天照大神が洞窟に隠れたという神話に関連する神聖な場所です。日本の神道において精神的な意味を持つ場所です。
4: What traditional performance is popular in Takachiho?
高千穂で人気のある伝統的な公演は何ですか？
Takachiho is famous for the Yokagura, a traditional dance that reenacts Shinto myths. It is performed at Takachiho Shrine almost every night for visitors.
高千穂は、神道の神話を再現する伝統的な舞「夜神楽」で有名です。観光客向けにほぼ毎晩、高千穂神社で上演されています。
5: How can visitors experience Takachiho Gorge?
訪問者はどのように高千穂峡を体験できますか？
Visitors can rent boats to explore Takachiho Gorge from the river, providing a close-up view of the cliffs and waterfalls. The gorge is especially beautiful in autumn.
訪問者はボートを借りて高千穂峡を川から探索でき、崖や滝を間近で見ることができます。特に秋の景色が美しいです。
6: What food is Takachiho famous for?
高千穂はどんな食べ物で有名ですか？
Takachiho is famous for its soba, a type of handmade buckwheat noodle that is simple but very tasty. Local restaurants serve it as a specialty.
高千穂は手作りのそばで有名です。シンプルですがとてもおいしいです。地元のレストランでは特産品として提供されています。
7: How do you get to Takachiho?
高千穂へはどうやって行きますか？
Takachiho can be accessed by car or bus from nearby cities like Kumamoto or Miyazaki. It takes a couple of hours, making it ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.
高千穂へは、熊本や宮崎などの近隣都市から車やバスでアクセスできます。バスで2時間ほどかかるため、日帰りや一泊に適しています。
8: What natural phenomenon can be seen from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck?
国見ヶ丘展望台からはどんな自然現象が見られますか？
From Kunimigaoka Observation Deck, visitors can sometimes see the “sea of clouds,” a misty view that covers the valley, especially in the early morning.
国見ヶ丘展望台からは、早朝に谷を覆う霧のような「雲海」を見ることができることがあります。
9: What kind of activities can be done at Takachiho Farm?
高千穂牧場ではどんなアクティビティができますか？
At Takachiho Farm, visitors can enjoy activities like fruit picking, tasting local produce, and relaxing while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
高千穂牧場では、果物狩りや地元の食材を楽しんだり、周囲の景色を楽しみながらリラックスできます。
10: When is the best time to visit Takachiho?
高千穂を訪れるのに最適な時期はいつですか？
The best time to visit Takachiho is in spring or autumn. In autumn, the fall colors and the chance to see the sea of clouds make it particularly beautiful.
高千穂を訪れるのに最適な時期は春か秋です。秋には紅葉や雲海が見られ、特に美しいです。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
mythology : 名詞
意味: 神話、または神話の体系。The collection of myths, especially ones belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition.
（高千穂の神話的な背景を説明するために使用され、天照大神やニニギノミコトに関連する伝説に言及）
例文：
- Greek mythology tells stories of gods and heroes.
「ギリシャ神話は神々や英雄の物語を語っています。」 - Japanese mythology includes the legend of Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
「日本神話には、太陽の女神である天照大神の伝説が含まれています。」 - He is studying Norse mythology in school.
「彼は学校で北欧神話を学んでいます。」
descend : 動詞
意味: 下る、降りる。To move or fall downward from a higher place to a lower one.
（ニニギノミコトが天から降りたという神話に関連して使用）
例文：
- The airplane began to descend as it approached the airport.
「飛行機は空港に近づくにつれて降下し始めました。」 - According to the legend, the gods descended from the heavens.
「伝説によると、神々は天から降臨しました。」 - The hiker carefully descended the steep mountain path.
「ハイカーは急な山道を慎重に降りていきました。」
mystical : 形容詞
意味: 神秘的な、霊的な。Relating to mysteries, spiritual experiences, or hidden truths beyond ordinary understanding.
（高千穂の神秘的な雰囲気を強調し、場所が神聖で不思議な感覚を与えることを説明するために使用）
例文：
- The ancient temple had a mystical atmosphere.
「その古代の寺院には神秘的な雰囲気がありました。」 - She practices meditation to reach a mystical state of mind.
「彼女は神秘的な精神状態に達するために瞑想をしています。」 - The forest was filled with a mystical light during the sunrise.
「日の出の時、森は神秘的な光に包まれていました。」
gorge : 名詞
意味: 渓谷。A deep, narrow valley with steep sides, often with a river running through it.
（高千穂峡（高千穂の渓谷）を説明し、その美しさや観光名所としての魅力を示すために使用）
例文：
- The hikers explored the stunning gorge carved by the river.
「ハイカーたちは川によって削られた美しい渓谷を探索しました。」 - Takachiho Gorge is famous for its steep cliffs and waterfalls.
「高千穂峡は、急な崖と滝で有名です。」 - The deep gorge was a breathtaking sight from the top.
「深い渓谷は頂上から見ると息をのむような景色でした。」
out of the way : 形容詞句
意味: へんぴな場所に、アクセスが難しい。In a remote or hard-to-reach location.
（高千穂がアクセスしにくい場所にあることを説明するために使用）
例文：
- The cabin was located far out of the way, deep in the forest.
「キャビンは森の奥深く、非常にへんぴな場所にありました。」 - Takachiho is a bit out of the way, but it’s worth the trip.
「高千穂は少しアクセスが難しいですが、訪れる価値があります。」 - We found a small restaurant out of the way that served amazing food.
「私たちは、へんぴな場所にある素晴らしい料理を出す小さなレストランを見つけました。」
Further Info
Practical Tips for Visiting Takachiho
高千穂を訪問する際の実践的なTipsです。
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Takachiho is during autumn (October to November) when the leaves turn red and the sea of clouds is most visible from Kunimigaoka Observation Deck. Early morning visits are recommended for clear views and to avoid crowds.
訪れるのに最適な時期
高千穂を訪れるのに最適な時期は秋（10月から11月）で、紅葉が美しく、国見ヶ丘展望台から雲海が最もよく見られる時期です。早朝に訪れると、混雑を避けながらクリアな景色を楽しめます。
Exploring Takachiho Gorge
Rent a boat to enjoy the beauty of Takachiho Gorge up close. Morning is the best time for a peaceful experience. Wear comfortable shoes as the walking paths around the gorge can be uneven.
高千穂峡の探索
高千穂峡の美しさを間近で楽しむには、ボートを借りるのがおすすめです。朝の時間帯は、静かな雰囲気の中で体験するのに最適です。また、渓谷周辺の歩道はでこぼこしていることがあるので、履きやすい靴を用意しましょう。
Cultural Experiences
If you want to see the Takachiho Yokagura dance, visit Takachiho Shrine in the evening. Performances usually start around 8 PM. Arrive early to secure a good seat and enjoy the atmosphere.
文化体験
高千穂夜神楽を観賞したい場合は、夕方に高千穂神社を訪れてください。公演は通常午後8時頃に始まります。良い席を確保し、雰囲気を楽しむためにも早めに到着するのがおすすめです。
Photography Rules
Photography is generally allowed in public areas like Takachiho Gorge and Kunimigaoka Observation Deck, but some spots near Amano Iwato Shrine are considered sacred, and photos are not allowed. Follow the local guidelines.
写真撮影のルール
高千穂峡や国見ヶ丘展望台などの公共エリアでは、通常、写真撮影が許可されています。ただし、天岩戸神社周辺の一部の場所は神聖とされており、写真撮影は禁止されています。地元のガイドラインに従ってください。
Weather Preparation
Bring a light jacket if visiting early in the morning, as the valley can be cool, especially in autumn and winter. An umbrella is also handy, as Takachiho occasionally experiences sudden rain.
天候への準備
早朝に訪れる場合は、軽いジャケットを持参してください。特に秋や冬には谷間が冷えることがあります。また、高千穂では突然の雨が降ることもあるため、傘を持参すると便利です。
Recommended Resources
Takachiho Tourism Official Website
For detailed information about Takachiho, including attractions, events, and access, visit the official website of Takachiho Tourism.
高千穂観光公式ウェブサイト
高千穂についての詳細情報（観光スポット、イベント、アクセスなど）を知りたい場合は、高千穂観光公式ウェブサイトをご覧ください。
関連トピック / Related Topics
高千穂に関連するトピックとして、日本神話に関連する記事を紹介します。
