Concept
Discover a Japan you never knew existed.
In northern Oita Prefecture, history spanning over 1,000 years is still alive.
From the fusion of Buddhism and Shinto at Usa Shrine—an unparalleled culture that shaped the Japanese spirit—to the enduring Rokugo Manzan faith of temples and mountains, this region preserves traditions found nowhere else in the world.
Castle towns like Nakatsu, Kitsuki, and Hiji echo the age of samurai,
while Beppu thrives as a world-renowned hot spring resort. Each town has grown in its own way, yet all are connected by a shared spiritual and cultural foundation.
The Millennium Heritage Journey invites you to explore shrines and temples, encounter local traditions, and meet the people who carry this legacy forward. Along the way, you may rediscover what has been forgotten—and create memories that last a lifetime.
Selected
Activities
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Cuisine
Experience Jigoku Mushi Steaming: Savor Local Ingredients Cooked by Hot Spring Steam
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Nature
Experience Yabakei by Bicycle: Ride through its striking cliffs and seasonal landscapes with a local guide.
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Culture
Harvest Oita’s Shiitake: Pick log-grown mushrooms with a local farmer and enjoy them freshly prepared in their home.
Where are we?