Kunisaki Peninsula — Oita Buddhist Temples & CoastalCliffs.
Distance
160 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
1,200 m
Kunisaki Peninsula — Oita Buddhist Temples & Coastal Cliffs.
The Kunisaki Peninsula in northern Oita is one of Japan's most unusual cultural landscapes — a circular forested highland studded with 3,000 stone Buddha statues, 69 temples of the Rokugo-Manzan Buddhist tradition, and twisting coastal roads almost completely unknown to foreign visitors. Circuit the peninsula from Beppu — Japan's hot spring capital — through the sacred Usa Shrine, ancient mountain temples, and the dramatically wild northern coast.
Quick facts
SurfacePaved
Distance160 km
Days1
Total climb1,200 m
DifficultyModerate
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The route.
BeppuStart · Start in Beppu — Japan's premier onsen city with 8 unique hot spring types. Head north along Oita Bay toward the base of the Kunisaki Peninsula.
Usa Jingu ShrineScenic Point · Japan's first Hachiman shrine, founded 725 AD — head shrine of all 40,000+ Hachimangu shrines nationwide. Grand covered corridors, ancient cedar trees, and carved stone lanterns. Arrive before 9am to avoid tour groups.
Fuki-ji TemplePhoto Spot · The oldest wooden structure in Kyushu, built in the 8th century. A National Treasure. The small Amida Buddha hall sits in a cedar forest in complete silence — no ticket barriers, no souvenir shops.
Futago-ji — Twin Peak TempleScenic Point · Mountain temple with stone Buddha carvings in roadside caves, reached via a steep winding road. The approach through bamboo and cedar is deeply atmospheric. Summit views reveal the peninsula's circular shape.
Kunisaki Cape — Northern Coast RoadScenic Point · The northernmost point of the peninsula. Dramatic cliff scenery, small fishing ports, and views across the Suo-nada Sea toward Yamaguchi Prefecture. Almost zero tourist presence.
Kitsuki Castle TownRestaurant · Beautifully preserved castle town with two intact samurai districts on steep hills above the bay. More atmospheric than Hagi and far less visited. Excellent fresh fish at harbour restaurants.
BeppuEnd · Return to Beppu to complete the 160km circuit. Recover with a long soak in the Kannawa onsen district — the original hot spring area, separate from the tourist Hell tour.
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