Visit Oita

At an altitude of 1,330 meters, Makinoto Pass is the highest point along the Yamanami Highway, which is recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Roads. It also serves as one of the trailheads for climbing Mt. Kuju.
An observation point along the way provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Kuju mountain range and Mt. Aso, especially on clear days.
Near the trailhead, you’ll find the Makinoto Pass Rest House, where you can enjoy popular treats like rich soft-serve ice cream and hearty mountain bandit rice balls (Sanzoku Onigiri), perfect for a satisfying snack.
The rest house also features a shop, making it an ideal spot for a break during the drive.
From the rest house, you can take in sweeping views of distant mountains, and if the weather is good, the night sky offers stunning stargazing opportunities.
Nearby, there are camping facilities and natural hot springs, offering visitors the chance to relax and recharge during their drive.

The Kokonoe "Yume" Suspension Bridge spans the Narukogawa Gorge at an elevation of 777 meters. At approximately 173 meters tall and 390 meters long, it is Japan’s tallest pedestrian suspension bridge.

From the bridge, you can marvel at the breathtaking natural scenery, including a waterfall that has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. The expansive panoramic view of majestic mountains in the distance transforms with each season, offering something new to admire year-round.

Autumn, in particular, sees the bridge bustling with visitors drawn by its reputation as a prime spot for fall foliage. Enjoy a stroll through the sky, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature.

For those hesitant to cross the bridge, the nearby observation deck offers a stunning vantage point of the entire bridge and its surroundings – perfect for taking memorable photos against the backdrop of this architectural marvel and its scenic setting.

The area also features souvenir shops, a tourist information center, and facilities such as nursing rooms, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

Usuki Castle Town is a delightful area for walking while soaking in its historical and cultural atmosphere. The area is home to numerous historical sites.

The Usuki Castle ruins were once the site of a castle built by Sengoku-period warlord Otomo Sorin. The castle's stone walls are engraved with alphabet-like characters. Otomo Sorin, known as a Christian, included a chapel within the castle grounds, and it is said that a training site for Christians existed below the castle. Today, the castle has been dismantled, and the area has been transformed into Usuki Park, a popular relaxation spot for locals and a famous cherry blossom site in spring.

The Nioza Historic Path is a favorite spot for strolling and experiencing Usuki’s history. This narrow path is lined with numerous samurai residences, preserving the strong essence of the old castle town. This area is one of Usuki’s most iconic landscapes and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Urban Scenic Spots. Among these, the "Inaba Family Lower Residence" stands out as a noteworthy site. This samurai residence offers a glimpse into the lives of people from the past, featuring characteristic gates, entrances, large rooms, storehouses, and earthen walls.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this former castle town and enjoy its timeless charm.

The Usuki Stone Buddhas are a group of stone Buddhas that represent Japan and are believed to have been created over 1,000 years ago. Carved directly into the rock face, these statues stand out for their number, scale, and exceptional craftsmanship. Among them, the Furuzono Stone Buddhas are particularly majestic. All 61 statues are designated as National Treasures, making this a profoundly historical and mystical site.
Adjacent to the carvings, the Stone Buddha Park is adorned with seasonal flowers, creating beautiful scenery throughout the year. From July to August, the large lotus blossoms reach their peak, adding to the visual splendor.
A free smartphone audio guide is available in Japanese, English, French, Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, allowing visitors from around the world to enjoy the site without language barriers.

Inazumi is one of Japan’s largest underwater stalactite caves, where visitors can enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Formed approximately 300 million years ago, the cave was submerged around 300,000 years ago during a massive eruption of Mt. Aso. Over time, erosion and excavation created pathways, allowing visitors to walk through and explore the cave. Beneath these pathways, crystal-clear water gently flows, with the cave maintaining a comfortable year-round temperature of 16°C, offering a cool retreat in summer and warmth in winter.
Two walking routes, each about 200 meters long, allow exploration of the cave’s fascinating features. Visitors can marvel at the stunning underwater stalactites, coral stones, and other natural wonders that resemble intricate works of art. In deeper sections, scuba diving and snorkeling are available, and the illuminated stalactites create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere.
There is also an outdoor sauna located near the cave entrance, the only one of its kind in an underwater stalactite cave worldwide. With prior reservations, guests can indulge in a luxurious experience by relaxing in a high-temperature sauna before cooling off in the cave’s refreshing waters.

Located in Taketa City, Nagayu Onsen is often referred to as "Japan's number one carbonated onsen." Rich in carbon dioxide, the waters here create delicate bubbles that cling to your skin during a soak, providing a pleasant and gentle stimulation. This unique feature promotes blood circulation, alleviates fatigue, and helps relieve cold sensitivity. The onsen also offers drinkable carbonated water, which is believed to stimulate digestive health and enhance metabolism. Scattered throughout the onsen town are several spots where you can taste the carbonated spring water while enjoying a leisurely stroll.

This area has a long history as a popular therapeutic onsen destination. Its relatively cool water temperature, characteristic of carbonated springs, allows for extended bathing sessions, making it ideal for slow and relaxing therapeutic stays. Situated in a lush, natural setting, Nagayu Onsen features inns and bathhouses along the river, providing a serene environment for exploration and relaxation. Take time to wander through the charming town and discover the unique appeal of this exceptional carbonated onsen.