18 Best Things to Do in Oita Prefecture

Known as Japan’s Hot Spring Prefecture, Oita is a popular destination for tourists due to its abundance of steaming, mineral-rich water, but there’s more to the area than just that. Home to stunning landscapes, rustic religious sites, mysterious artifacts and a rich culinary heritage, this is a region well worth exploring. Here are 18 things we recommend doing in Oita.

Visit the Bishago Sisters

Two large rocks connected by ropes emerged from the sea near Black Beach in Oita City: Bishago Sisters Rock. Unlike many other sacred rock pairs in Japan, these are not Couple Rock (Married Couple Rock) – According to legend, they are dedicated to the diving sisters Isago and Masago, who rescued a holy sword from a giant octopus. These picturesque stones offer a beautiful view at any time of day, but they are especially stunning at sunrise.

Visit Himejima’s mysterious torii gate

HimejimaMeaning “Princess Island”, it is a certified Japanese Geopark consisting of four volcanically formed islands connected by sandbars. There are many attractions here, including the “Seven Wonders of Himejima”. The highlight is arguably Ukisu, also known as Himejima’s floating torii gate. It is located on a small island offshore and is said to never sink underwater, even during unusually high tides.

Enjoy the sunset at Matama Beach

One of the most spectacular sights in Japan, Bungotakada City matama coastit’s common to see dozens of photographers lining up trying to capture the perfect shot. The time to visit is when the sun sets over the vast striated tidal flats that appear at low tide. It is indeed an epic sight that is often compared to a painting.

Experience Puyuan Wetland

Located on the north side of Kuju Mountains, Tatehara Wetland It is a vibrant ecosystem containing a large number of rare flora and fauna. These protected marshes offer stunning scenery year-round: primroses and yellow violets bloom in spring, daylilies blossom in summer, golden pampas grass thrives in autumn, and the area is blanketed in sparkling snow in winter.

Admire Tsukumi’s citrus terraces

A quiet coastal city facing the Bungo Strait, Tsukumi Famous for its limestone production and rice terraces Satsuma (orange) fields. This is the oldest “Ancient mandarin orange“Trees, some of which are over 850 years old. according to this book Tsukumi Hanjin SushiThe trees were first planted in the area in 740 AD by Fujiwara Nizaemon, who was under house arrest following a military defeat.

Head to the Funguno Rice Spring Underwater Caves

Featuring stalactites, spiral rocks, coral rocks and deep pools, Daizhu Underwater Cave There is an incredible sense of mystery. It is the longest underwater limestone cave in Japan. It was formed in the Paleozoic era, 200 to 300 million years ago, but took its current form after being submerged by the eruption of Mount Aso 300,000 years ago. It is 1 kilometer long and most of it can be explored on foot, leaving visitors in awe of its otherworldly beauty.

Stroll through the historic hot spring town of Yufuin

An antique hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Yufu, Yufuin It has about 900 hot spring sources, ranking second in Japan after nearby Beppu. Strolling along the 300-year-old cobbled lanes will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In addition to its numerous baths, the town is also famous for its art museums, cafés and boutiques.

Visit Kitsuki Castle Town

A charming and well-preserved castle town next to the sea, Kitsuki A very enjoyable day trip from Beppu. The town is famous for its charming Edo period atmosphere and having the smallest castle in Japan. In the center of town you’ll find a museum displaying samurai armor, helmets and artefacts, and its well-preserved streets are great for wandering. The town is sandwiched between plateaus to the north and south and is dotted with samurai residences. These have been lovingly restored and are open to the public.

Sample Japan’s famous right-eye flounder and visit its famous castle ruins

one is a charming town that was once home to an impressive castle. Although the castle no longer exists, the stone base and moat (which has been transformed into a small park) remain. Below the castle ruins are the famous places of the town A beautiful gift in the city (right-eyed flounder) caught. These marbled fish have small heads, round bodies, and are delicious, especially when eaten as sashimi.

Admire Usuki Stone Buddha

eye-catching Usuki Stone Buddha It was carved from soft volcanic rock about 1,000 years ago, but exactly when it was created is unknown. While each piece is a masterpiece, why and by whom they were made remains shrouded in mystery. There are 61 decrees in total, 59 of which are designated as national treasures. They are divided into four groups, many of which are carved directly into the cliffside.

Marvel at the hand-carved Aonodomon Tunnels

Meaning “blue tunnel” Onodomon It is one of the main attractions in Yamakei, Oita Prefecture. According to legend, during the Edo period, people often fell to their deaths on the dangerous cliff path leading to an important local shrine. According to legend, the Buddhist monk Zenkai spent 30 years digging tunnels in the rocky mountains with his bare hands, using only hammers and chisels; for him, the resulting 342-meter tunnel was an atonement for his earlier sins a means.

Visit a famous American shrine

Built in the eighth century, Usa Shrine It is the main shrine dedicated to Hachiman shrines across Japan. Hachiman is often called the god of archery and war. It is one of the most prestigious shrines in the country and retains a grand atmosphere, especially the striking vermilion lacquer main shrine, which is designated a national treasure.

Stroll along Kunisaki’s cobblestone road

The Kunisaki Peninsula is a land of towering Rocky Mountains and ancient traditions, where demons are believed to be incarnations of the Buddha. Liuxiang Manshan: A fusion of Shintoism, Buddhism, Taoism, and mountain worship. Hiking in the area feels like stepping back in time, especially along the route to Jiuxiantao TempleThis once glorious temple is now a peaceful forest.

Attend the famous Hita Gion Festival

Said to have originated in 1714 Hita Gion Festival Featuring nine beautifully designed arms Floats parade through the town, accompanied by traditional Japanese music, including Renjiang bamboo flute, Taiko Drum and Shamisen. This colorful festival held in late July to pray for peace and ward off evil spirits is quite spectacular.

Watch bamboo lanterns light up the city in Bamboo Fields

For three days in mid-November every year, Approximately 20,000 bamboo lanterns Light up the night of Takeda Castle Town. As the sun starts to set, the lanterns are lit and it’s an amazing sight. The event, called Chikuraku, attracts thousands of visitors who can also enjoy live music and local delicacies at food stalls.

Learn about Beppu’s famous bamboo crafts

Beppu is not only a hot spring paradise but also famous for its exquisite bamboo handicrafts. This traditional Japanese craft dates back to the first century, when one of Emperor Keiko’s kitchen staff reportedly discovered that the region’s slender bamboo stalks were ideal for basket weaving. Combining ancient techniques with modern sensibilities, the industry is still thriving today. You can see traditional tools and artwork here Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Centerand even attend workshops to create your own pieces.

Enjoy a piece of history at Bungo Mori Round House

The only remaining railway roundhouse in Kyushu Mori Bungo Round House It operated from 1934 to 1971; at its peak, it could accommodate 25 steam locomotives. Registered as a national tangible cultural property in 2012, it’s a must-see for train lovers, but it’s also worth a visit for its charming and unusual atmosphere – it looks almost like an ancient amphitheatre. It has become a popular destination for fans of the popular anime film Suzume Furthermore, it bears a striking resemblance to the ruins featured in the film’s opening scene.

Savor Saeki’s feast of fresh seafood

When it comes to seafood, no place in Japan can beat it. Now. The catch here is the largest among the ports in Oita Prefecture, and more than 50 species of fish are available at the city’s fish market every year. Fish swimming in the choppy waters of the Bungo Strait tend to be firmer and have just the right amount of fat. There are several high-quality sushi restaurants in the city to choose from.

To plan your trip to Oita, visit their official website.

Oita Tourism Association
2-50 Takasago-cho, Oita City, Oita Prefecture OASIS Plaza 21 3F
Phone: +81 097-536-6250

Other social media information:
Explore Oita, Japan on YouTube
Oita Tourism Bureau’s Facebook page
Oita Tourism Bureau posted on Instagram
Oita Hot Spring Resort is WeChat
Japan Oita Prefecture Tourism Bureau Weibo