Uedahara Yutate Kagura (kamitawara yutate kagura) — The fierce deity that scatters sparks The Uedahara Yutate Kagura took place on December 8, 2024, at Mitarai Shrine in Uedahara, Mie-machi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This ritual, offered every three years, prays for health and safety and a bountiful harvest. Many spectators attended on the day. The performance begins with the fierce deity testing the hot water from two large kettles as the firewood continues to burn; after that, the deity whirls and stomps across the charcoal fire, scattering sparks. Next, two performers in eboshi caps and hakama stir the water, scoop it by hand, and collect the yudama (water spirit) to offer before the shrine. Then two performers dressed in white drench themselves with sasa bamboo, dance barefoot over the charcoal fire, enter the kettle, recite norito prayers, and finally perform the concluding dance. The bold, otherworldly display drew great applause from the crowd. Location On the grounds of Mitarai Shrine (Uedahara, Mie-machi, Bungoono City) Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. The Bungoono City Tourism Association website is linked from the profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Introducing the 2024 autumn colors at Yujaku Park (Yujaku Kōen) Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City Around 500 maple and Japanese maple trees line the Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, making this one of Oita Prefecture’s representative autumn foliage spots. Many visitors come during the autumn color season. In 2024, the foliage was later than usual, with peak colors around late November. Every year from early to mid-November, the Momiji Festival is held, and the herbal rice cakes made by local residents are very popular during the event. For one day a special stage is set up on the pond for an event called Yujaku Night Kagura Mizukagami. Please visit Yujaku Park again in 2025. Location Yujaku Park (Ageotsuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station Parking available (free) Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Yuzaku Park Autumn Light-Up 2024 Yuzaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City Around 500 maple and Japanese maple trees surround Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, making this one of Oita Prefecture’s premier autumn color destinations. This site attracts many visitors during the fall foliage season. The 2024 light-up has ended. Location Yuzaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asaji Station Parking available (free) Access times to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Walk through the autumn leaves of Yūjaku Park (Yūjaku Kōen) 2 Yūjaku Park in Asoji Town, Bungoono City Around Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, about 500 maple and Japanese maple trees are planted, making this a representative autumn-color spot in Oita Prefecture. Many people visit during the autumn foliage season. Location Yūjaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asoji Town, Bungoono City) About 45 minutes by car from Oita Mera IC About 6 minutes by car from Roadside Station Asaji About 4 minutes by car from JR Asoji Station Parking available (free) Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended sightseeing, gourmet, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourist Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourist Association website is available from our profile.

Autumn leaves spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Walking among the autumn colors at Yujaku Park (Yujaku Kōen) Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City Around Tanji Pond and Shinji Pond, about 500 maple and Japanese maple trees are planted, making this one of Oita Prefecture’s representative autumn-leaf viewing spots. Many visitors come during the autumn foliage season. Location Yujaku Park (Kamiozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) About a 45-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About a 6-minute drive from Roadside Station Asaji About a 4-minute drive from JR Asaji Station Parking available (free) Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Instagram shares recommended spots in Bungoono City for sightseeing, food, and accommodation ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be glad if you follow us. You can find the Bungoono City Tourism Association website linked from the profile.

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City [Hoshōji Autumn Leaves 2024] Hoshōji Temple in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history spanning over 800 years. It displays vivid colors during the autumn foliage season. During the event period, the temple is lit up, enchanting visitors with its mystical atmosphere. Here is a look at the autumn leaves in 2024. [Location] Hoshōji Temple (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungoono City Tourism Association website linked in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture’s Bungoono City Hoshōji Temple (Hoshōji) Hoshōji Temple, which is lit up during the autumn foliage season, also looks beautiful in daytime. Hoshōji Temple is located in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history of more than 800 years. It displays vivid colors during the autumn foliage season. During the event period, the temple is illuminated, and its magical atmosphere captivates visitors. Location Hoshōji Temple (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa We will also announce foliage conditions on the tourism association’s Instagram. ■■■ Access to Bungoono City center ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for Bungoono City sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodations⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami: A Scene from Yakumo Barai 02 On November 9, 2024, Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. A kagura dance unfolded on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, creating a beautiful, otherworldly scene as the autumn leaves and the performance reflected on the water. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in the profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami: A Scene from Yakumo-barai 01 On November 9, 2024, Yujaku Yokagura Mizukagami took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The kagura dance was performed on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, and the autumn leaves and the kagura reflected on the water created a magical scene. ■■■Access to central Bungoono City■■■ About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Yojaku Yokagura Mizukagami On November 9, 2024, "Yojaku Yokagura Mizukagami" took place in Asaji Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Performers displayed kagura dances on a stage set above the Shinji Pond, creating a beautiful, otherworldly scene as the autumn leaves and the dances reflected on the water. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram, we share recommended spots for sightseeing, food, and accommodation in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Kokan Bridge (Kōkankyō) – Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property Kokan Bridge stands between Mie-machi in Bungoono City and Usuki in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The name Kokan means "a rainbow crossing a ravine," and true to its name it is a large, beautiful arched stone bridge spanning a mountain stream. Built in the late Edo period, it was erected on the road connecting Mie town and the castle town of Usuki. Because the river runs through a gorge, people of the time had to descend steep slopes, cross the river, and climb steep slopes again, enduring great hardship. To overcome this difficulty, wealthy merchants from Usuki and Mie pooled funds to build the bridge. This sturdy and elegant stone bridge is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. As an arched stone bridge from the Edo period, it is the largest in Oita Prefecture, with a span of 25.4 meters. Kokan Bridge was built where welded tuff from Aso pyroclastic flows had been deeply eroded by the river. Location: between Sugo, Mie-machi, Bungoono City and Nishihata, Notsu-machi, Usuki City, Oita Prefecture About a 35-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About a 4-minute drive from JR Sugaeo Station ■■■ Access to Bungoono City Center ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended spots for sightseeing, dining, and accommodation in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture "Kiyokawa ‘Aya’ Hoshouji in Autumn" Hoshouji sits in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. This venerable temple has a history of more than 800 years. Known as "Aya no Hoshouji" or "Hoshouji in Autumn," it bursts into vivid color during the autumn leaves season. During the event period, the temple is lit up, and the enchanting atmosphere captivates visitors. Of course, it’s also beautiful during the daytime. [Event Period] Sunday, November 3, 2024–Sunday, November 10, 2024 Light-up: 17:30–21:00 [Location] Hoshouji (1639 Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) About a 50-minute drive from Oita Mera IC About an 8-minute drive from Roadside Station Kiyokawa We will also post updates on foliage conditions on the Tourism Association’s Instagram. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City ■■■ About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ■■■■■■■■■■■■ On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet food, and accommodation spots in Bungoono City ⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website in our profile. ■■■■■■■■■■■■

Autumn foliage spot in Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City [The 43rd Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival] The Yujaku Autumn Leaf Festival takes place at Yujaku Park in Asaji Town, Bungoono City. Enjoy the beautiful fall colors. During the festival, there will be illumination and local residents selling kusa-mochi (grass rice cakes) and other items. The leaves typically change color after November. [Period] Sunday, November 3, 2024 – Sunday, November 24, 2024 [Location] Yujaku Park (Kaminokozuka, Asaji Town, Bungoono City) [Parking] Available Illuminations [Dates] Friday, November 8; Friday, November 15; Saturday, November 16; Sunday, November 17; Friday, November 22 Saturday, November 23 [Time] From sunset until 9:00 PM Yujaku Night Kagura: Mizukagami (Water Mirror) [Date and Time] Saturday, November 9, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM ※In case of rain, the performance will be postponed to the following day [Location] Special floating stage on the Shinji Pond at Yujaku Park For event inquiries (Mizukagami, foliage conditions, etc.) Bungoono City Hall Asaji Branch Phone: 0974-72-1111 We will also post foliage updates on the Tourist Association’s Instagram. --- Access to downtown Bungoono City --- Approximately 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture -------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, local food, and accommodations in Bungoono City: Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us. A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from the profile. --------

A kagura festival in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. [The 37th Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament] Would you like to come and see the vigorous, splendid dances of kagura? [Date and Time] Sunday, October 27, 2024 — performances start at 8:30 AM (scheduled) [Venue] Kagura-no-Sato Nobaba Park (Udae, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture) [Parking] Available Please note that parking spaces near the venue are limited. On the day, a shuttle bus will run from JR Bungokiyokawa Station. [Shuttle Bus (free)] Round-trip service between JR Bungokiyokawa Station and the venue JR Bungokiyokawa Station → via Kagura Hall (with parking) → Nobaba Park [Performing Groups] Asakusa-ryu Saeda Kagura (Notsu, Usuki City) Shonaihara Kagura Preservation Society (Shonai, Yufu City) Nakae Iwato Kagura Preservation Society (Namino, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture) Ontake-ryu Yoshida Rigakusa (Yoshida, Taketa City) Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) Ontake Kagura (Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City) [Admission] Please pay at the venue entrance on the day. 500 yen for junior high school students and older (unreserved seating) Please refrain from reserving spots in advance of the day. ■■■ About the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament The Ontake kagura passed down in Kiyokawa is said to have begun in 1449, at the same time as the founding of Ontake Shrine. This tradition has been handed down for centuries, and kagura in this lineage spread through Ono, Naoiri, the southern part of the prefecture, and as far as the Aso region. In 2007 it was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the national government. We launched the Mount Ontake-style Kagura Tournament in 1988 to reexamine this local culture of kagura born from Kiyokawa’s landscape and to promote regional revitalization through kagura. The tournament gathers traditional cultures from many areas into one event. Centered on Ontake kagura, the bold and brilliant dances, along with the splendid performances by the Kiyokawa Children’s Kagura Preservation Society that carry the Ontake tradition into the future, captivate many kagura fans. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- You can find a link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website from the profile. ----------

Inukai Stone Buddha (National Historic Site) The Inukai Stone Buddha stands in Inukai Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The Inukai Stone Buddha is a rock-carved image sculpted into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years ago. Based on the style of the figure, it is estimated to have been created in the Kamakura period. Although it represents Fudo Myo-o, its gentle facial expression is striking. The knees appear to sit in a cross-legged position, yet the carving gives the impression of being viewed from above, which is an intriguing technique. The stone Buddha is protected by a shelter, and the cliff above the roof bears the inscription "Ryudenzan." On the cliff to the upper right of the shelter, the large inscription reads "Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo." Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, and accommodations in Bungoono City⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

‘Ichii-gashi in the Interval’ An ichii-gashi (Quercus gilva) in Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This great tree stands in the mountains of Kiyokawa-cho. It is a centuries-old giant. You find the giant ichii-gashi deep along the forest road that leads to Mount Ontake in Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho, Bungoono City. Its total height is 12 m, and its trunk circumference at chest height is 10 m. A hollow opens at the trunk’s center, and a small shrine stands inside. It is also designated as a Special Protected Tree by Oita Prefecture. Seeing it in person is an overwhelming experience. Turn left onto the forest road and drive about 500 m, then walk into the cedar woods on the right, cross a stream, and you will reach it in about two minutes. The site is little known and hard to find, so these photos should help convey its atmosphere. For more details, please contact the tourism association. Location: Souchi, Kiyokawa-cho

Mt. Ontake (Ondake) Mt. Ontake stands in Kiyokawamura, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Mt. Ontake rises to 568 meters. From the summit you get a superb view that takes in the whole Bungoono area. From the top you can see Mt. Kabeyama, Mt. Aso, the Kuju mountain range, and the Ono mountain area. The summit’s rocks are chart—a sedimentary rock formed from compacted plankton on the Pacific seafloor—that were swept onto the Japanese archipelago by plate movements. Passing through the torii and climbing a gentle stone stairway for about 10 minutes brings you to Mitake Shrine, said to have been founded in 1449, and the birthplace of Mitake Kagura. The rocky hill behind the shrine is called Sennodake and is regarded as a sacred place. When climbing Sennodake, enter with a feeling of gratitude and take great care with your footing, as the route remains rocky. ■■■ Access to central Bungoono City About 3 hours by car from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About 1 hour 20 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture ---------- On Instagram we share recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Bungoono City ⬇✨ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We’d be happy if you follow us 😊 A link to the Bungoono City Tourism Association website is available from our profile. ----------

Sugao Magaibutsu Sugao Magaibutsu is located in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Sugao Magaibutsu consists of five cliff-carved Buddha images created in the late Heian period. They are carved into welded tuff from an Aso pyroclastic flow about 90,000 years old. The carvings are so beautifully and skillfully executed that they compare favorably with wooden Buddhist statues from Kyoto and Nara, and they are designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. They are among the most representative magaibutsu in Bungoono City. Access to Sugao Magaibutsu involves steep stone steps and slopes. Please take great care with your footing. Location: Asase, Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture About a 12-minute drive from JR mie town station (7–8 km) Cultural Property: Nationally designated Important Cultural Property ■■■ Magaibutsu of Bungoono City Magaibutsu are stone Buddha images carved directly into cliffs. Bungoono City has an exceptionally large number of magaibutsu even by national standards. Many of these were carved into welded tuff formed by cooled pyroclastic flows; carvers selected relatively easy-to-work sections without columnar joints. ■■■ Bungoono City Tourist Association The Bungoono City Tourist Association shares information on the city’s attractions and scenic spots. We would be delighted if you follow us. On other social channels we also post information on food, accommodations, and events. For details, please visit the Bungoono City Tourist Association website (link in profile).

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls is one of Bungoono City’s signature sights in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This fall spans 120 m and drops about 20 m, and unlike most waterfalls it lies on flat ground rather than in a mountain valley. It’s easy to visit because it sits right next to Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki. The waterfall formed as river water slowly eroded columnar jointing created by pyroclastic flows over many years. The road above the falls serves as a local residential route, and it’s interesting to see cars, pedestrians, and even the occasional tractor pass by. A promenade and suspension bridge around the falls let you enjoy views from various angles, and you can sometimes see a rainbow depending on the viewpoint. Location: 936-1 Harajiri, Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture (Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki)

Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls, located in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture in Kyushu, is one of Bungoono City’s signature tourist attractions.

Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival This festival takes place in August in Mie Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. Organized mainly by local residents, it is not large in scale but offers a warm, heartfelt atmosphere. The festival begins with Shinto and Buddhist rites. According to legend, the Sugao cliff-carved Buddha statues were carved by an oni (demon), and to thank the oni everyone invites an oni to appear at the festival, where the organizers present it with a letter of appreciation. In the rooster-crowing imitation contest inspired by the legend, participants perform their own impersonations of a rooster’s crow, filling the venue with smiles. On stage, the vigorous drumming of Toyukai and traditional kagura dances take place. In the latter half of the festival, a torch-throwing ritual called 松明投げ (taimatsu-nage) lights a roughly 3-meter-tall pillar pine by tossing burning torches up into it from below, and many children take on the challenge. ■■■ What the Sugao Stone Buddha Fire Festival Is Local residents hold the festival to revitalize the area and raise awareness of the Sugao cliff-carved Buddhas. The rooster-crowing imitation contest stems from a local legend. In the tale, an oni that settled in the area caused trouble and demanded, “Give me the village maiden as my bride!” The troubled village headman consulted a monk, who told the oni, “If you carve five stone Buddhas into the cliff in one night, you may take the girl as your bride; if you fail, leave the village.” Worried villagers checked at night and found the oni carving the fifth statue. They had the village’s rooster imitation expert mimic a rooster’s crow, tricking the oni into thinking morning had arrived, whereupon it fled.

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge lies deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The gorge forms the uppermost reaches of the clear Okudake River, flowing from the ridgelines of the Sobo–Katamuki mountain range. The deep green of the forest, the white of large granite boulders, and the water running between them create a striking contrast. Although tucked deep in the mountains, you can enjoy a proper hike or simply walk along the gorge in summer to take in the rich natural forest; it feels cool even in summer. Be careful: the riverbed is slippery. Near Kawakami Gorge is LAMP Bungoono, an accommodation converted from a closed elementary school, where you can also enjoy a Finnish-style sauna. Location: Obeira Mine, Ogata Town, Bungoono City It is about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town, Bungoono City.

Kawakami Gorge Kawakami Gorge is a ravine deep in the mountains of Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. It lies about a 50-minute drive from the center of Ogata Town in Bungoono City. Kawakami Gorge sits at the headwaters of the clear Oku-dake River, where the blue, crystalline stream and frothing white rapids create a strikingly beautiful scene. Walking along the gorge lets you enjoy the rich natural forest, and the area feels cool even in summer.

Kodai Fire Festival The Kodai Fire Festival takes place every year on August 14 in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This traditional event has been passed down since the Edo period. Its origins are unclear, but it is said to have begun as a Bon memorial service, a ritual to drive away pests and pray for a bountiful rice harvest, or as a memorial for victims of an uprising that occurred during the Edo period. On the day of the festival, local residents prepare small torches called kodai in the rice fields across the Ogata Plain, starting around Harajiri Falls. At night, when about 10,000 kodai are lit all at once, their lights rise up from around Harajiri Falls across the Ogata Plain. The scene is exceptionally dreamlike. Some districts in Ogata Town create torii gates, stone bridges, and other features using kodai, creating a stunning competition of beauty.

The Kodai Torch Fire Festival will take place on August 14 in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This traditional event has been passed down since the Edo period. At night, when the Kodai torches are lit all at once, their lights rise like a dream around Harajiri Falls and across the Ogata Plain.

Chinda Falls (Chinda no Taki) – Kyushu, Oita Prefecture, Bungoono City Chinda Falls consists of the male fall on the main stream of the Ono River and the female fall on the Hirai River, a tributary. The male fall measures about 100 m across and 20 m high, while the female fall is about 10 m across and 18 m high. The rocks that form Chinda Falls were deposited by the pyroclastic flows from the great eruption of Mount Aso approximately 90,000 years ago. The site is also famous because Sesshū, the ink-painting master active during the Muromachi period, visited and painted “Chinda Waterfall.” Near the falls lie the remains of an old hydroelectric power station built in the Meiji era. Location: Yata, Onocho, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Parking available

Chinda Falls in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu The falls consist of the male fall, which spans the main course of the Ono River, and the female fall on the Hirai River, a tributary. The photograph shows the male fall. Its roughly 100 m width and 20 m height create an impressive flow.

Hello viewers of Cool Japan Video! This is the Bungoono City Tourism Association. From now on, we will be introducing the many charms of Bungoono City in Oita Prefecture on Cool Japan Video, so please stay tuned! ◆◆◆ What is Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Bungoono City in Oita Prefecture lies in the southern part of Oita Prefecture and offers abundant scenic nature and historic sites. Bungoono City was formed in 2005 by merging five towns and two villages (Mie Town, Kiyokawamura, Ogata Town, Asaji Town, Oonocho, Chitose Village, and Inukai Town), and it now has a population of about 32,000. Bungoono City is the only place in Kyushu designated both a Japan Geopark and a UNESCO Eco Park, with vast natural landscapes to enjoy through all four seasons. In recent years the city has also developed excellent sauna facilities, making it an ideal place to relax. ◆◆◆ Access to Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ◇ Oita Airport – Access to Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture You can reach Bungoono City from Oita Airport by car or public transport. By car: It takes about one and a half hours by car from Oita Airport to Bungoono City using toll roads. You will pass beautiful mountains and rural scenery along the way. By train: From Oita Airport, take the airport bus to Oita Station in about one hour, then transfer to the JR Hohi Main Line and ride about one hour to Mie Town Station, the central station of Bungoono City. ◆◆◆ Bungoono City — The Sauna Town Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture has recently gained attention as a “sauna town.” The area has a long history of stone bath culture and a tradition of enjoying steam baths, so the city has declared itself a “sauna town,” using its great outdoors to develop outdoor saunas as a tourist resource. Bungoono City’s saunas provide a relaxing natural setting where visitors can enjoy restorative moments. Local-themed sauna events are held regularly, making the city an attractive destination for sauna enthusiasts. ◆◆◆ Popular sightseeing spots in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ◇ Harajiri Falls Harajiri Falls, called the “Niagara of the East,” is a magnificent waterfall and a signature sight of Bungoono City. This waterfall is about 120 meters wide and 20 meters high, and its seasonal scenery draws many visitors. In particular, the fresh green season offers a spectacular view where the falls and surrounding nature blend beautifully. ◇ Inazumi Underwater Cave Inazumi Underwater Cave is a rare underwater limestone cave. A cave formed in the Paleozoic era about 300 million years ago sank underwater during the massive Aso volcanic eruption 300,000 years ago, becoming an underwater cave. Inside the cave, over 1,000 meters long, you can find stunning stalactites and flowing underground water that create a mystical landscape. Visitors can explore the cave on guided tours and enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in Japan’s top underwater cave. ◇ Chinda Falls Chinda Falls is a beautiful waterfall with a drop of about 20 meters, surrounded by rich natural scenery. It is one of the geosites of the Bungoono Geopark and is designated as a nationally registered monument. You can also see the remains of a power plant built in the Meiji era. ◇ Yusaku Park Yusaku Park is a vast park famous for its autumn foliage. In autumn, more than 500 maple and Japanese maple trees planted around the shinji pond turn red and yellow, attracting many visitors. On weekends and holidays during the foliage season, the autumn leaves are illuminated for a magical atmosphere. ◆◆◆ Roadside Stations and Satonomes in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture There are five roadside stations in Bungoono City. A tour of these roadside stations is a great way to explore the area. ◇ Roadside Station Mie From here you can enjoy the renowned Enaido no Kei scenic view in Mie Town. The product center offers fresh local vegetables and specialty products. ◇ Roadside Station Kiyokawa You’ll find affordable fresh vegetables and heartfelt handmade processed goods from producers. This is also the hometown of the intangible folk cultural property Mitake Kagura. ◇ Roadside Station Harajiri no Taki This roadside station adjoins Harajiri Falls, one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. It’s conveniently located for visitors touring Bungoono City. ◇ Roadside Station Asaji Nanohana Oborozuki Kan is a very distinctive log-built structure. Restaurant Fukujuso serves exquisite dishes featuring the local specialty Bungo-Asaji beef. ◇ Roadside Station Ono Set within the great nature of Bungoono City, this roadside station offers plenty of fresh vegetables and local specialties to enjoy. ◆◆◆ Events and festivals in Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture ◇ Tulip Festa Held every spring, this festival features 300,000 vibrant tulips in 100 varieties blooming around Harajiri Falls. ◇ Kodai Torch Fire Festival The Kodai torch fire festival is a traditional event held each August during the Obon season and is a local summer highlight. The vast Ogata Plain fills with the glow of many torches. ◇ Bungo Inukai Fireworks Festival This historic and traditional fireworks festival takes place in Inukai, the birthplace of Bungo fireworks. ◇ Mitake-style Kagura Festival In Bungoono City, where many performing arts have been handed down, local Mitake Kagura and kagura from other regions perform together. Mitake Kagura is said to have begun around the same time as the founding of Mitake Shrine and stands as one of Oita Prefecture’s representative kagura. In 2007 it became the first kagura in Oita Prefecture to be designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and has received high praise outside the prefecture as well. ◇ Megurukura — Bungoono Brewery Tour This event is a joint brewery opening of the city’s four breweries, where you can drink delicious sake and shochu and enjoy the scenery of Bungoono for a luxurious day. Bungoono City has two sake breweries and two shochu distilleries. Rich water from the surrounding mountains nurtures the rice and barley, and these high-quality ingredients allow the four breweries to produce outstanding drinks. ◆◆◆ Tourist information for Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture Bungoono City is a charming destination with beautiful natural scenery and a rich history. Enjoy the city’s attractions throughout the changing seasons and savor all that Bungoono City has to offer. We will continue sharing recommended information about Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, so please follow us!