About
Perched atop a gentle hill overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, seven colossal figures stand sentinel, their stoic gazes fixed upon the horizon. These are the Moai statues of Sun Messe Nichinan, a place where the azure sky meets the endless sea, and where the whispers of ancient cultures blend seamlessly with the rhythms of nature.
The Moai, each towering at 5.5 meters and weighing between 18 to 20 tons, are faithful replicas of the Ahu Akivi statues from Easter Island. Their presence here is not mere coincidence but a testament to a unique bond between two distant lands. In the early 1990s, a Japanese team, moved by the plight of the toppled Moai on Easter Island—victims of time and natural calamities—embarked on a mission to restore them. Their dedication and craftsmanship earned the gratitude of the Rapa Nui elders, who granted Japan the unprecedented honor of recreating these iconic figures on its own soil. (pmiyazaki.com)
As you wander through the expansive 20-hectare park, the ocean breeze carries with it the scent of salt and the distant calls of seabirds. The landscape is a tapestry of vibrant greens and blues, with the Moai standing as silent guardians of this serene paradise. Each statue is believed to bestow different blessings upon visitors: from health and love to prosperity and academic success. It's said that touching the second Moai from the right can bring financial fortune, while the third from the left is associated with romantic endeavors. (welcomekyushu.jp)
Beyond the statues, the park offers a myriad of attractions. The "World Insect Exhibition Hall" showcases rare butterflies and insects from across the globe, their delicate wings shimmering under the soft light. Nearby, the "Butterfly Earthwork" presents a massive ground painting, its intricate design best appreciated from the vantage point of the "Sun Deck," where the panoramic view of the Pacific is nothing short of breathtaking. (kanko-miyazaki.jp)
For those seeking a touch of whimsy, the "Swing Facing the Sea" offers a moment of childlike joy. As you soar forward, it feels as if you might take flight over the ocean, merging with the horizon. Adjacent to this, the "Voyant Statues"—seven colorful human figures—sit contemplatively, their gazes fixed on the sea, inviting visitors to join them in quiet reflection. (kanko-miyazaki.jp)
The park's design is a harmonious blend of art and nature. The "Sun's Hill," inspired by England's Stone Circle, functions as a giant sundial, its shadow marking the passage of time. The "Earth Appreciation Bell" stands as a symbol of gratitude to our planet, its resonant chimes echoing across the landscape. (gurunet-miyazaki.com)
As the day wanes, the setting sun casts a golden glow upon the Moai, their silhouettes etched against the fiery sky. The ocean mirrors this spectacle, creating a symphony of colors that dance upon its surface. In this moment, standing amidst these ancient sentinels, one can't help but feel a profound connection to the past, a deep appreciation for the present, and a hopeful gaze towards the future.
Sun Messe Nichinan is more than a park; it's a bridge between cultures, a sanctuary of art and nature, and a place where the spirit of the Moai continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.