Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Ōita, Ōita, Japan
1. Yufuin no Yuchū, Yufu
Experience a nostalgic European-style amusement park with charming rides and beautiful gardens.
- European Aesthetics: Offers a unique blend of Japanese and Western architecture.
- Nostalgic Amusement Park: Uncommon in Japan, providing a different kind of amusement park experience.
- Beautiful Gardens: Stunning landscapes that change with each season.
2. Kurokawa Onsen, Kuma Village
Relax in the traditional hot springs and explore picturesque valley filled with thatched-roof houses.
- Traditional Hot Springs: Experience authentic Japanese onsen culture.
- Picturesque Valley: A serene and scenic setting for your stay.
- Thatched-Roof Houses: Traditional architecture preserves the historical charm.
3. Kunisaki Tanada Rice Terraces, Kunisaki
Walk through rice terraces that climb up steep hillsides and enjoy breathtaking views.
- Steep Hillsides: Unusually high and dramatic terraced landscapes.
- Breathtaking Views: Stunning scenery at every turn.
- Traditional Farming Methods: Witness the ancient farming techniques still in use today.
4. Ōita Space-Guard Station, Ureshino
Learn about space exploration at a real-life space observation center.
- Real-Life Observatory: Rare opportunity to observe the cosmos from a working observatory.
- Space Exhibits: Educational displays about space exploration and astronomy.
- Stargazing Events: Participate in stargazing events with telescopes provided.
5. Hells of Beppu, Beppu
Explore the unique hot springs and geothermal phenomena that make up this otherworldly landscape.
- Hot Springs: Experience a variety of hot springs with different temperatures and mineral compositions.
- Geothermal Phenomena: Witness the steam vents, mud pools, and hot springs that create an otherworldly landscape.
- Onsen-Ryokan Stays: Overnight at a traditional Japanese inn and enjoy the unique hot springs on site.
6. Ōita Peace Memorial Park Museum, Ōita City
Explore the history of World War II and learn about peace through interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engaging displays that bring historical events to life.
- Peace Promotion: Emphasis on the importance of peace and conflict resolution.
- Wartime Artifacts: Preservation of historical artifacts related to WWII.
7. Ōita Prefectural Museum of Art, Ōita City
Appreciate contemporary and modern Japanese art in a beautiful hillside setting.
- Contemporary Art: Showcases works by renowned Japanese artists.
- Modern Japanese Art: Focus on art movements from the Meiji era to the present day.
- Hillside Setting: A tranquil, picturesque location overlooking the city.
8. Kurokawa Onsen Open-Air Bath, Kuma Village
Relax in an open-air hot spring under the stars or surrounded by lush nature.
- Open-Air Experience: Unwind amidst nature while soaking in a hot spring.
- Stargazing Opportunities: A rare chance to bathe under the night sky.
- Lush Surroundings: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
9. Yamakawa Onsen, Kunisaki
Visit a remote onsen hidden in a lush valley and soak in the natural hot spring waters.
- Remote Location: A peaceful and secluded hot spring experience.
- Lush Valley: Surrounded by nature with rice terraces and forests nearby.
- Natural Hot Spring Waters: Enjoy the benefits of mineral-rich, healing waters.
10. Bungo-yaki Pottery Festival, Usuki
Join the annual festival to celebrate traditional pottery making and learn from skilled artisans.
- Traditional Pottery Making: Learn about and participate in this centuries-old craft.
- Skilled Artisans: Opportunity to learn from master potters.
- Annual Festival: A unique cultural event not to be missed.
11. Usa Jingū, Usa
Visit the ancient Shinto shrine dedicated to the gods of the sea and thunder.
- Ancient Shrine: One of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, dating back over 1,300 years.
- Sea and Thunder Gods: Dedicated to the gods Susanoo-no-Mikoto (thunder) and Tsukiyomi-no-Kami (moon, sea).
- Spiritual Experience: A unique and spiritual experience in a tranquil setting.
12. Ōita Fruit Land, Ōita City
Experience a vast fruit orchard where you can pick and enjoy seasonal fruits.
- Vast Orchard: A sprawling, picturesque location filled with fruit trees.
- Seasonal Fruits: Pick and enjoy a variety of seasonal fruits.
- Fruit Museum: Learn about the history, cultivation, and varieties of various fruits.
13. Ōita Modern Art Museum, Ōita City
Discover contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists.
- Contemporary Art: Showcases works by contemporary Japanese and international artists.
- International Artists: Features a wide range of artists from around the world.
- Modern Architecture: Housed in a striking, modernist building designed by Toyo Ito.
14. Kunisaki Pilgrimage Routes, Kunisaki
Walk along historic pilgrimage routes, passing temples and shrines with stunning views.
- Historic Pilgrimage Routes: Follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims.
- Temples and Shrines: Visit well-preserved religious sites along the way.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside.
15. Takachiho Gorge, Takachiho
Marvel at the dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and natural beauty of this scenic gorge.
- Dramatic Cliffs: Soaring rock faces create a stunning backdrop.
- Waterfalls: Beautiful cascades add to the picturesque landscape.
- Natural Beauty: A peaceful and serene setting perfect for relaxation.