Kitsuki Castle Town
A historic stroll through charming streets and scenic views from 400 years ago
Kitsuki Castle Town preserves the essence of the Edo period (1603 to 1868), with streets and architecture dating back approximately 400 years. The central valley’s Tanimachi Street was home to merchants, while samurai residences stood proudly on the north and south plateaus. Connecting the two plateaus are Suya-no-Saka and Shioya-no-Saka, picturesque slopes offering some of the town’s best views. Thatched-roof samurai residences, cobblestone paths, earthen walls, and stone fences create a timeless landscape reminiscent of the samurai era, with every corner exuding photogenic charm.
The Ohara Residence, located on the north plateau, is Kitsuki's most prominent samurai residence, featuring a stunning thatched roof and an elegant garden. Nearby, the Nomi Residence, estimated to be about 170 years old, showcases a stately architectural style. Visitors can enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while gazing at the garden, and souvenirs are available for purchase.
At the eastern end of the north plateau, Kanjoba-no-Saka is a set of 53 stone steps connecting Kitsuki Castle to the north plateau samurai district. Look out for the Mt. Fuji-shaped stone on the 24th step, a delightful detail showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.
The area also features museums, temples, and other attractions, making it a treasure trove of history. Renting a kimono and exploring the town adds an extra layer of charm to the experience.
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Category
Notable Spots in the Area Around Kitsuki Castle Town
- Suya-no-Saka
- A section of the slope leading to Kitsuki Castle, once used as a path connecting the lives of samurai. Its elevated position offers excellent views. The stone-paved road, lined with samurai residences on both sides, preserves the atmosphere of a traditional castle town.
- Ohara Residence
- The most prominent samurai residence in Kitsuki, featuring an impressive thatched roof and well-maintained gardens. As the home of a high-ranking samurai, it showcases refined traditional Japanese architecture, allowing visitors to explore the interior and gain a vivid sense of samurai life.
- Nomi Residence
- Believed to be a building from around 170 years ago, it offers a glimpse into the lives of samurai during that era. The facility also has a shop selling souvenirs, and visitors can enjoy matcha green tea and Japanese sweets while admiring the garden.
- Shioya-no-Saka
- A slope connecting the samurai residence area and the merchant town, this path facilitated interactions between samurai and merchants. It reflects its role as a commercial hub, and is characterized by a casual and down-to-earth atmosphere with traditional streetscapes.
- Kanjoba-no-Saka
- This gentle stone staircase with 53 steps connects Kitsuki Castle to the Kita-dai Samurai Residences, running east to west. On the 24th step, there is a stone shaped like Mt. Fuji, reflecting the playful creativity of the craftsmen.
Basic Information
- Address (Japanese)
- 大分県杵築市杵築
- Address
- Kitsuki, Kitsuki City, Oita
- Telephone Number
- 0978-63-0100（Kitsuki City Tourism Association）
- Car Park
- Municipal parking spaces available (includes parking spaces for buses)
- Access
- [By car]
Approximately 5 minutes from Kitsuki IC on the Oita Airport Road
[By taxi]
Approximately 10 minutes from JR Kitsuki Station - Website
＊Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
