Nestled along the east coast of Kyushu, the city of Oita is home to almost half a million people, making it by far the largest urban center in Oita Prefecture. However, aside from the prefectural art museum, there is little that is unique about this coastal conglomerate, especially when compared to larger cities across the country.

Instead, a trip to Oita is best used by exploring the extensive bounty of the prefecture, home to mountain temples, secret hot springs and the god of war.

Friday