A hot spring town along the Mikuma River
Hita is a charming city located in central northern Kyushu, japan. Known for its hot springs, historical buildings, and local brews, Hita offers a unique and relaxing experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking to unwind in natural hot spring baths, explore ancient merchant houses, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Hita has something for everyone.
Don’t miss
One of the highlights of Hita is the rows of ancient buildings that line its streets. Strolling along these historic streets is like stepping back in time, as many of the buildings date back to the late 17th century. The Mameda area, in particular, is home to some of the oldest merchant houses and storehouses in Hita. One notable attraction in this area is the Kusano house, which is the oldest house in Oita Prefecture. Its traditional architecture and well-preserved interior provide a glimpse into the past.
Another must-see attraction in Hita is the Mikuma River. Dining on a leisure boat while cruising along the river is a popular activity among visitors. It offers a unique perspective of the city and allows you to enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by the beautiful scenery. Additionally, from late May to the end of October, you can also witness cormorant fishing from a leisure boat. This traditional method of fishing involves trained cormorant birds diving into the river to catch fish. It’s a fascinating sight that showcases the deep connection between nature and the local community.
How to Get There
Hita is easily accessible by train. From Hakata Station, it takes approximately 70 minutes to reach Hita, while from Yufuin Station, it’s a 60-minute train ride. Yufuin Station is served by the Kyudai main line, which is accessible from Beppu, Aso, and Kumamoto. The train journey itself is a scenic one, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque countryside of Kyushu.
Blessed with mineral-rich waters
One of the main attractions of Hita is its hot springs. Along the Mikuma River, you’ll find a number of hot spring inns that offer natural hot spring baths. These mineral-rich waters are believed to have various health benefits, such as improving blood circulation and relieving muscle tension. Many ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) in the area rent out yukata, which are lightweight summer kimonos, and geta, traditional Japanese sandals, to their female guests. This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the traditional Japanese experience and explore the hot spring town in style.
Mameda Town
The Mameda area is a treasure trove of historical buildings and attractions. As mentioned earlier, it is home to some of the oldest merchant houses and storehouses in Hita. Strolling along the historic streets of Mameda feels like taking a step back in time, as the area has remained largely untouched by modern development. The Tenryo Hita Museum is a great place to learn more about the culture and history of the area. The museum features exhibits that showcase the daily life of common people during the 17th and 18th centuries, providing valuable insights into the region’s past.
Iichiko Hita Distillery
For those interested in local brews, a visit to the Iichiko Hita Distillery is a must. This distillery produces shochu, a traditional Japanese alcoholic drink made from barley. What sets Iichiko Hita Distillery apart is its unique brewing process. The staff members brew only barley malt for both primary and secondary preparations, and then age the alcohol slowly in oak barrels and hollow tanks. This results in a shochu with a deep and distinctive flavor. Visitors can take a tour of the factory to learn about the brewing process, sample some of the shochu, and browse the products at the shop. It’s a great opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and tradition behind this beloved Japanese beverage.
In conclusion, Hita is a hidden gem in central northern Kyushu that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and local culture. Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs, a journey through time in the streets of Mameda, or a taste of traditional Japanese shochu, Hita has it all. With its picturesque scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality, Hita is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. So, why not plan a visit to Hita and experience the charm of this hot spring town along the Mikuma River?
Address And Maps Location:
Hita-shi, Oita-ken
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