Visit Oita

Kumano Magaibutsu, carved directly into a natural rock wall between the 11th and 12th centuries, are some of Japan's largest stone Buddha sculptures. The two statues, each about 7–8 meters tall, include a serene figure with spiral patterns on its head and another holding a sword with a gentle expression. These remarkable sculptures are of immense historical and cultural significance.
To reach the site, visitors climb a slope to the middle of Mt. Tawara, with walking sticks available for loan at the Magaibutsu Guide Office. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Passing through a stone torii gate, you’ll encounter a set of 99 stone steps, said in legend to have been built overnight by demons. As you ascend these steep stairs, the majestic stone Buddhas emerge from the dense forest, leaving visitors in awe of their grandeur.
At the top of the stairs, you’ll find Kumano Shrine, while descending leads to Taizoji Temple, known for its blessings of fertility. In autumn, the approach to the site is adorned with vibrant autumn foliage, enhancing the magical atmosphere of this sacred location.

Fukiji Temple, believed to have been founded between the 10th and 12th centuries, is a temple of great historical significance, preserving ancient Japanese architectural styles as an important cultural heritage site. The temple is guarded by two imposing stone statues and two large trees, adding to its solemn atmosphere.
The main hall was built to enshrine Amida Nyorai, the Buddhist deity who saves and guides souls to the Pure Land, and is designated a National Treasure as the oldest surviving wooden structure in Kyushu. Behind the central Buddha statue, a mural depicting the Pure Land Paradise was originally painted in vibrant colors, some of which have faded with time. Although the interior of the main hall is not open to the public due to its age, a full-scale replica of the vividly restored artwork is on display at the nearby Oita Prefectural Museum of History. The temple grounds also feature numerous stone relics.
In spring, the temple is surrounded by lush greenery, while in autumn, the golden carpet of fallen ginkgo leaves beautifully contrasts with the vivid red foliage of the maple trees. At night, the illuminated grounds create a magical and enchanting atmosphere.

Situated on the slopes of Mt. Futago in the Kunisaki Peninsula, Futagoji Temple was established in 718 and holds a rich historical and spiritual significance. At the entrance, visitors are welcomed by two towering 2.5-meter-tall Nio guardian statues, which stand watch over the approach. The temple is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. In spring, vibrant cherry blossoms and azaleas adorn the grounds, while summer brings lush greenery and wildflowers. Autumn transforms the area into a tapestry of brilliant red and gold foliage, and winter offers a serene snow-covered landscape, creating a tranquil and majestic atmosphere year-round.
Visitors can enhance their visit with multilingual audio guides available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, which provide insightful information about the temple's history and surroundings.

With a history spanning over 1,300 years, Monjusen-ji Temple is nestled on the slopes of Mt. Monju and is renowned as a place for seeking wisdom. The temple attracts numerous visitors from across the country who come to pray for academic success and to pass exams.
Climbing approximately 300 stone steps surrounded by towering rocks and cedar trees leads to the temple’s main hall, Monju-do. The temple grounds are graced with seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene snow-covered landscapes in winter. The autumn leaves, at their peak from mid-November to early December, are particularly breathtaking. This picturesque temple and its surroundings have been designated a National Scenic Beauty Site, known as Monju Yaba. Multilingual audio guides are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, ensuring an informative and enjoyable visit for tourists. At the base of the temple, visitors can also stay in a temple lodging and experience zazen meditation or shakyo (sutra copying), offering a tranquil and reflective escape.

Bungo Takada Showa Town recreates the streetscape of a shopping district from Japan’s Showa period (1926 to 1989), specifically from around 1955 to 1964. The town's vintage architecture and atmosphere transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into daily life during this era. Exhibits featuring retro household appliances, everyday items, and movie posters provide a window into the past, making it a popular destination across generations.
The shopping district is lined with charming establishments such as traditional candy shops, general stores, and nostalgic cafés. Guided tours that share the history and stories of the area are available, and on weekends, visitors can enjoy free shuttle buses for added convenience.
The Showa Romangura themed park offers a variety of events and interactive programs. Guests can stroll the streets in kimono, play with nostalgic games and toys, or participate in engaging activities designed to entertain and delight visitors of all ages. Take a walk through the charming streets of Showa Town and enjoy a heartwarming experience steeped in nostalgia and fond memories.

Located within the historic Usa Fudoki-no-Oka Park, the Oita Prefectural Museum of History is a comprehensive showcase of the region's rich history and culture. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a striking replica of a stone Buddha carved into a rock wall, enhanced with projection mapping where the museum’s mascot explains its significance. Moving deeper into the museum, you’ll find a wide range of artifacts, including tools, documents, Buddhist art, and reconstructed models of shrines, tracing life from prehistoric times to the modern era.
The highlight of the museum is a full-scale recreation of Fukiji Temple’s main hall, Kyushu’s oldest wooden structure, restored to its original glory. The vividly colorful murals of the Pure Land Paradise and the golden Buddha statues are a remarkable sight. Special exhibitions and curated displays also offer fresh insights during each visit.
Outside, Usa Fudoki-no-Oka features several ancient burial mounds from the 3rd to 6th centuries, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park is also renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring and irises in early summer, adding to its scenic appeal.

With over 40,000 shrines in Japan bearing the name "Hachiman," Usa Jingu, founded in 725, serves as the head shrine for all Hachiman shrines and boasts a 1,300-year history as a renowned power spot. Surrounded by pristine forests, the serene grounds feature the Upper Shrine (Jogu) and Lower Shrine (Gegu), both dedicated to the same three deities. It is customary to pay respects at both. The main hall of the Upper Shrine, designated a National Treasure, is a stunning example of the unique Hachiman architectural style, with three beautiful structures featuring white walls and vermilion columns aligned in a row.

The site is home to other noteworthy structures, such as the lavishly roofed Kure Bridge and the Treasure Hall, which houses and displays significant cultural artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll to discover the Meoto Iwa (Husband-and-Wife Rocks), believed to bring happiness when stepped on, and the heart-shaped Inome carvings hidden throughout the grounds.

Seasonal highlights include cherry blossoms in spring, lotus flowers covering the "Hishigata Pond" in summer, and vibrant autumn foliage.

* A monorail is available near the Upper Shrine for those with disabilities, the elderly, wheelchair users, and strollers.

* The Upper Shrine's South Naka Sakura Gate is undergoing renovation until March 2025.

Nakatsu Castle, located near the border of Oita and Fukuoka Prefectures, is a beautiful water castle situated along the mouth of the Nakatsu River and is counted among Japan’s three great water castles. Construction began in 1588 under the military strategist Kuroda Kanbei, and the castle later became the residence of the Okudaira family. The current castle keep was reconstructed in 1964. The historical museum inside the castle showcases valuable artifacts, including swords, armor worn by successive lords, and ancient documents. On the northern side of the inner citadel, remnants of stone walls used during the castle’s construction can still be seen, making it a captivating spot for history and castle enthusiasts. The view from the castle keep is spectacular, and on clear days, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of Nakatsu City and the surrounding mountains.

Yabakei is one of the Kyushu region’s most celebrated scenic spots, a valley consisting of four areas: Hon-Yabakei, Shin-Yabakei, Ura-Yabakei, and Oku-Yabakei, all situated in the Yamakuni River basin. In spring, the valley comes alive with fresh and vibrant greenery, while in autumn, the red and yellow maple leaves create breathtaking landscapes. It’s a perfect destination to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

A highlight in Hon-Yabakei is the "Ao no Domon" (Blue Tunnel), a hand-carved tunnel that took the monk Zenkai 30 years to complete using only a chisel and hammer, which he did to ensure safe passage for travelers. Sunlight streaming through the tunnel creates a mystical blue glow, showcasing a miraculous harmony between nature and human endeavor. This site is a romantic testament to both historical dedication and natural beauty. Other notable attractions include Kyoshuho, a one-kilometer stretch of cliffs and unique rock formations, and Yabakei Bridge, Japan’s longest stone arch bridge, spanning 116 meters.

In Shin-Yabakei, "Hitome Hakkei" is a particularly famous spot for viewing the stunning autumn foliage, where colorful leaves and fresh spring greenery beautifully complement the surrounding rocky peaks. Visitors can also enjoy local specialties, such as soba noodles and soba manju (sweet bean buns), making a trip to Yabakei enjoyable in multiple ways.