Miyazaki

Miyazaki commonly refers to Miyazaki Prefecture, a prefecture on the eastern part of Kyushu, Japan. The capital and largest city is Miyazaki. The prefecture lies along the Pacific Ocean and features a mix of coastal plains and inland mountains. It has a warm, subtropical climate and a landscape that supports agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Historically, the economy has centered on farming and seafood, with growing contributions from manufacturing and services. Agricultural products include citrus fruits and mangoes, and the region is known for its scenic coastlines and hot springs.

Miyazaki is also a Japanese surname. A prominent bearer is Hayao Miyazaki (born 1941), an animator and film director who co-founded Studio Ghibli in 1985. His works, including Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and My Neighbor Totoro, have achieved international acclaim. Spirited Away won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, contributing to his reputation as a leading figure in modern animation. His storytelling and visual style have influenced the global animation industry.

In common usage, Miyazaki may refer to the prefecture, the city of Miyazaki, or the filmmaker, with context usually clarifying the intended meaning.