Miyakonojo City is located halfway between Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, and is recognized as one of the prefecture's major cities. As it was once the territory of the Satsuma domain, the dialect is influenced by the Kagoshima dialect, and Satsuma culture can still be felt today. One of the city's main industries is agriculture. Tea and burdock are abundant, and livestock farming is also thriving. One of the city's famous attractions is the Miyakonojo City Museum of Art, a public art museum with a history of over 30 years since its opening. Other famous attractions include the Miyakonojo Shimazu Residence, Tachibana Astronomical Observatory, and Sekinoo Falls, as well as several hot springs.