Visit Oita

Built in 1934 to coincide with the full opening of the Kyudai Line connecting Kurume Station in Fukuoka to Oita Station in Oita Prefecture, this fan-shaped concrete locomotive roundhouse stands as a unique relic in Kyushu. It has been recognized as a Modern Industrial Heritage site, and is the only surviving structure of its kind in the region.

During World War II, the depot served as a hub for military transport and was targeted by strafing attacks from U.S. fighter planes. The bullet marks left on its exterior walls serve as a somber reminder of its tragic past.

Today, the site has been transformed into Bungo Mori Roundhouse Park, featuring an SL29612 steam locomotive, a relic from the Taisho era (1912 to 1926), which warmly welcomes visitors.

From March to November, the park hosts monthly events on the second Sunday, including the Monthly Roundhouse Market and the Roundhouse Festival, where visitors can enjoy activities like mini-train rides, carp streamer displays, and stalls offering food and crafts.

The adjacent Bungo Mori Roundhouse Museum offers an interactive journey into railway history. Exhibits feature materials on the former Bungo Mori Roundhouse and railroads, along with family-friendly attractions such as railway-themed picture books, a wooden pool for play, and origami-making activities.