The Misaki is a critically-endangered small horse breed indigenous to the southern Japanese prefecture of Miyazaki. It is one of eight native breeds in Japan and is known for its endurance and good nature. Misaki horses run in a feral state in the designated National Monument of Cape Toi, which is part of the municipal boundaries of Kushima in Miyazaki.


They were designated a Japanese National Natural Treasure in 1953. The breed proved useful in field work due to their size and is able to perform feats of strength well beyond their stature. However, dwindling farmland and usage of machinery have caused the breed`s population numbers to decline, with only about 100 remaining in 2012. Now, they are protected against poachers and natural predators.