From Oita Airport, Embark on a Day Trip to Beppu and Fully Enjoy Japanese Culture!
This one-day tour takes you from Oita Airport through Beppu to explore the historic castle town of Kitsuki and the nostalgic streets of Showa Town. In addition to exploring the charming samurai residences in Kitsuki, you can also enjoy a nostalgic lunch menu in Showa Town, where you can experience the atmosphere of the Showa era, the period from 1926 to 1989 of economic growth in Japan that also saw the development of a unique and lasting culture. Additionally, you will visit awe-inspiring stone Buddhas and historic temples, where you can feel the harmony of nature, art, and history. This course offers a quintessential Oita experience, featuring hot springs, history, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking views.
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
- Days required
- 1day
- Transport Options
- Car
Contents
Kitsuki Castle Town
A Castle Town that Still Retains the Charms of the Edo Period
Kitsuki Castle Town is known as a "sandwich-style castle town" due to its unique topography: merchant houses line the valley street, while samurai residences occupy the elevated areas to the north and south, giving the area the appearance of a sandwich. In spring, there are spectacular cherry blossoms along the streets of samurai residences and stone-paved slopes, creating a dreamlike landscape. Renting a kimono for a stroll allows visitors to immerse themselves in the lifestyle of Edo-period (1603-1868) samurai and townspeople, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history.
Showa Town (Lunch)
Step Back in Time to the Nostalgic Showa Era
This unique spot exudes the nostalgic charm of the Showa Era (1926-1989). Local cafés and small diners offer a cozy, homemade-style nostalgic lunch experience. While strolling through the area, be sure to visit Showa Romangura, a museum-like venue packed with exhibits that recreate life in the Showa Era and display a variety of nostalgic items. You can enjoy traditional dagashi shops (stores selling inexpensive old-fashioned sweets) and recreated sets of Showa-era streetscapes that bring back this moment in time.
Kumano Magaibutsu
Awe-inspiring colossal approx. 8m tall stone Buddhas carved into a natural cliff face
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
A historic temple home to the oldest wooden structure in the Kyushu region
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.
If you have time, stop by the Usa Jingu Shrine!
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.
Beppu Station
End Your Journey on a High Note!
The final stop of your trip is Beppu Station. The station's connected shopping facility offers a delightful selection of local specialties and crafts, making souvenir shopping an enjoyable experience. Just outside the station, there’s a hand bath where you can easily soothe away your travel fatigue.
A Stay at Beppu Onsen Accommodations is also Highly Recommended
By staying in Beppu, you can fully enjoy a variety of hot springs, including beautifying waters, sunayu sand baths, and mushiyu steam baths, allowing both body and mind to rejuvenate. In the evening, immerse yourself in the charm of the onsen town and indulge in the local gourmet cuisine for a truly luxurious experience.
