-
Futagoji Temple – A Complete Guide to Kunisaki Peninsula’s Poster Boy
The name Futagoji (両子寺) is no stranger for anyone who has visited or lived nearby the Kunisaki peninsula. And yet, this temple remains relatively unknown among the travel circle given its secluded location. Futagoji is a small mountain temple located deep within the forests in the center of the peninsula. Because of this and also its iconic twin Nio guardians (仁王) statues, Futagoji is widely considered as the poster-boy temple of the region. In fact during my exchange to Oita, Japan, this was one of the first temples that I visited on a field trip. Despite having to travel in a large group while being accompanied by the enthusiastic chatters…
-
Awe-Inspiring Scenic Sites in the Kunisaki Peninsula
The Kunisaki Peninsula (国東半島) is certainly no slouch when it comes to its variety of scenic sites. Humongous Buddha statues, former temple sites as well as mountain landscapes, the region is undeniably a hotspot for those wishing to dwell into the wilderness. It comes with no surprise, as for centuries, the region is the center of the Rokugo Manzan (六郷満山) culture, a practice that assimilates Buddhism together with Shintoism and mountain practice. With that in mind, lets explore some of these hidden scenic sites of the Kunisaki Peninsula. Special thanks to Tourism Oita for the images in this article, including header image. Save In Pinterest No time to read this…
-
A Complete Guide to the Rokugo Manzan Temples
The remote Kunisaki Peninsula is undoubtedly a haven for Rokugo Manzan temples. And rightfully so, as this region was once the birth place of Rokugo Manzan, an indigenous culture resulted from the assimilation of Buddhism (仏教), Shintoism (神道) together with mountain worship. To describe it eloquently, it is a heritage of religious acceptance. Established in AD 718, this culture cultivated across the tranquil region and eventually established a series of rustic temples and spiritual sites. One of these is none other than the grand Usa Jingu shrine, which undeniably deserves its own article. These temples and sites are truly worth checking out, especially for their tranquility and historical value. With…
-
Rokugo Manzan – The Unique Pride and Joy Of Kyushu
Rokugo Manzan (六郷満山) is certainly a term that is deemed a jargon by many, including Japanese themselves. Even myself admittedly have never heard of it until only recently, despite having visited the region a decade ago. Nevertheless, it fascinates me as I studied about it further, that this culture is one that established the foundation for Buddhism in the island of Kyushu. For starters, Rokugo Manzan (六郷満山) refers to the synchronism of various religious beliefs which later evolved into a culture and established itself in the Kunisaki Peninsula (国東半島) region of Oita Prefecture (大分県). In fact, the region became renowned for its scenic mountain temples, and also the grand Usa…
-
8 Genuine Onsen Spots Nearby Oita, Other than Beppu
Oita Prefecture (大分県) is certainly no stranger when it comes to hot springs/onsen (温泉) hotspots. In fact, most would often think of Beppu (別府) first when it comes to hot springs. However, did you know there are plenty more genuine places nearby Oita (大分) for a soothing dip into a hot bath? Here are 8 genuine onsen spots to visit nearby Oita. Trip map courtesy of Wanderlog, a vacation planner app on iOS and Android Save In PinterestNo time to read this onsen travel guide now? Click on the save button and pin it for later! Yufuin (由布院) The lovely mountain town of Yufuin (由布院) is without doubt the second…
-
5 Unique Ways To Travel To Oita
A rural city rich in hot springs, deep culture and history, Oita offers a surprising variety of ways to travel to it. Undoubtedly some of the most common answers are fan-favourite’s bullet train/shinkansen (新幹線); or renting a car for those who prefer flexibility. However, did you know there are also other unique ways that you can travel to Oita while enriching your experience too? Continue reading to find out more. Save In PinterestNo time to read this Oita travel guide now? Click on the save button and pin it for later! By Train Let’s start with the most obvious way to travel to Oita, by train. Despite its rural location,…
-
Oita – The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Peaceful Coastal City
Often when planning a trip to Japan, the city of Oita (pronounced ooi-ta/大分) is not exactly the first thing that pops up in the mind. In fact, when I was assigned to this city for my exchange back in 2011; I relatively knew nothing about it. So much so that when I informed everyone about my exchange, the first question everyone asked was “Where is it?”, accompanied with a puzzled face. Little did I expect, Oita turned out to be a lovely place to stay while brushing up my Japanese skills. A peaceful city with a touch of countryside, it features a lovely mix of skyscrapers and also countryside landscapes.…
-
Fukoji Temple – The Spectacular Cliff-Carved Buddha of Bungoono
Have you ever heard of the little Fukoji temple (pronounced Fukouji/Fukōji/普光寺)? This little temple features a rare cliff-carved Buddha statue in Japan. Located an hour away from Oita (pronounced ooi-ta/Ōita/大分) by train ride, the temple is located in the little town of Asaji (朝地) in Bungoono (pronounced Bungo-oono/Bungo-ōno/豊後大野) city. To learn more about this fascinating hidden spot, lets dwell deeper into its background. History of Fukoji Temple It’s Origins Fukoji Temple (普光寺) originated back in AD 583, during the Asuka period (飛鳥時代); a time when Buddhism firstly became a pop-culture in Japan. The founder of this temple was basically Nichira (日羅), a Japanese who worked as an official for the…
-
Bungoono – Admiring the Beautiful Autumn in Japan’s Enchanting Countryside
Have you ever heard of the autumn leaves (momiji/紅葉) spot known as Bungoono (豊後大野)? This little hidden city is known among locals as a lovely leaf-peeping or momijigari (紅葉狩り) spot. Located south of the city of Oita (pronounced ooi-ta/Ōita/大分) in Kyushu (九州), Bungoono offers an enchanting autumn experience together with a touch of Japan’s authentic countryside and rustic temples. To learn more about the beauty of this city, lets deep dive into it, shall we? The History of Bungoono Learn More Bungoono’s history dated 90,000 year ago; where the volcano Mt Aso (阿蘇山) erupted frequently. This resulted in the everchanging landscapes; leading to the formation of various mesmerising waterfalls, canyons…
-
9 Surprisingly Charming Historic Cities To Explore In Oita Prefecture
Historic is certainly not the word that comes across your mind when you think of Oita (pronounced ooi-ta/Ōita/大分).The city in Kyushu (九州) is often overlooked by many due to its lack of attractions in the city center. Despite this, surrounding Oita lies a variety of mesmerising historic towns that houses Japan’s rich history. From the birth of deities and their dramas, to the beginning of civilisation and the introduction of Christianity, Kyūshū is certainly no slouch when it comes to its historical value. The mountainous region too helps in providing an overall genuine countryside experience as you venture into these wonders. With that said, here are 9 must-visit historic towns…
