Introduction to Kunisaki
Kunisaki Peninsula is located in the northern part of Oita Prefecture situated in the second biggest Japanese island, Kyushu. This part of the island is mostly covered by forests and surrounded with the Seto Inland Sea. Kunisaki Peninsula is lying on top of large conical volcanoes that make up the base of it.
This part of southern Japan is known for many reasons, such as its wonderful cuisine and traditions. But mostly for its breath taking nature and historical spots distributed across the peninsula. Kunisaki has a lot to offer to its residents as well as to visitors touring the spectacular locations. It is perfect place for taking a relaxing walk through local woods or for more adventurous ones, to hike to the top of the hills as they can provide breath taking views.
For those less active or those who do not want to spend the whole day exploring the mountains, there are many other activities for offer. As Oita Prefecture is lying on a volcano, it comes to no surprise that there are many hot springs of how Japanese call it ‘onsen’. It is a typical Japanese bath with naturally hot water. Onsen is a really good spot to relax and experience another significant part of Japanese culture.
Some of the most popular places include Kunisaki City, Tashibunobusho, Mt. Futago and Matama shoreline. As all of these can offer multiple activities, that attract many.
Recommended places to visit:
Bungo Takada
Bungo Takada is a town located in the northern part of Oita Prefecture. The city is also nicknamed a 'Buddha's Village' and the region is known for its early Buddhist influence which results can be seen till this day in form of the many rock-carved Buddha images located in the surrounding area and other neighbouring cities. This city is popular amongst many for its beautiful combination of nature and cultural heritage that was influenced by Rokugo Manzan culture.
Part of the city is also a famous shopping district called Showa no Machi, located in the downtown of Bungo Takada. It is often sought by tourists for its nostalgic feel as they are able to ‘travel back in time’ and experience a part of the city that has retro feel of a Japanese city from the 1950s. The area offers also a Toy Museum that is really popular amongst children and 1960s Everyday Life Museum that feature thousands rare Japanese items from that period.
Usa City
Usa City is another small town in the northern part of the prefecture. It has a lot to offer but is mostly known for the Usa Shrine, the main and biggest Hachiman shrine in Japan, which has its historical meaning as well as its religious traditions.
For all the food lovers, Usa is blessed with a food that will make many happy. ‘Kara-age’, a deep fried chicken that sets Usa City apart from other districts. Even though, the legend has it that it was Usa City that originated this special fried chicken, nowadays it is available in many places outside as well.
Kitsuki
Kitsuki is a town in the southern part of Kunisaki Peninsula, it is also known as ‘’little Kyoto’’ of Kyushu. This beautiful town is known for one of the smallest castles in Japan, the Kitsuki Castle. What make it so special is also that it is surrounded by two samurai districts from the northern and southern sides. Streets in these districts come from Edo period (1603–1868) and are very well maintained till this day. This makes this spot popular for taking photogenic pictures. To add to the traditional Japanese historic atmosphere there is a possibility to rent out a traditional Japanese kimono or summer version called yukata. In this area there is also located a Kitsuki Castle Town Historical Museum that provides all information about the history of the town and its traditions.
