Oita– tax –

Usuki Sekibutsu (Usuki Stone Buddhas), located in Usuki City, Oita Prefecture, Japan, is a national treasure and the generic name for about 60 polished cliff Buddhas believed to have been created between the Heian and Kamakura periods. These stone Buddhas were carved on tuff cliffs and were considered an important heritage of Buddhist art because of their elaborate carving techniques and expressive power. The Usuki Stone Buddhas are divided into four groups of stone Buddhas, each reflecting a different period and style. Especially famous are the statues of Dainichi Nyorai, Amida Nyorai, and Kongorikishi, which attract visitors with their graceful expressions and intricate carvings down to the smallest detail. These stone Buddhas have maintained their beauty and dignity over the years. The surrounding area has a walking trail and observatory where visitors can enjoy the stone Buddhas along with the scenery of the four seasons.

Kai Yufuin is a new brand of onsen ryokan operated by Hoshino Resort. The hotel overlooks terraced rice paddies, which are called Japan's original landscape, and the open-air baths offer a panoramic view of Mt. The lighting in the guest rooms is reminiscent of fireflies in the summer, again allowing you to immerse yourself in the charms of Japan. Of course, the food, including gibier, a bounty from the mountains, and other dishes that remind one of Kyushu's unique culture, are also appealing.

Everyone loves karaage. Taikoh won the highest gold medal in the western Japan soy sauce sauce category at the “15th Karaage Grand Prix,” a contest to determine the best karaage, and has been a famous restaurant since its establishment in 1988! Taikoh's fried chicken is characterized by its “well-balanced” taste. The karaage, which is deep-fried to a crisp at a high temperature to lock in the flavor, is juicy and plump. Starting with fried gizzards, which have a unique and addictive texture, we offer a wide variety of side dishes, snacks, and nibbles.... We have a variety of items suitable for any occasion.

"We bring out the best in carefully selected meats". This is Itou's yakiniku. The restaurant is known for its style of grilling fresh meat over charcoal, which gives it a juicy and flavorful taste. The restaurant's interior is a homey, yet secluded space, ideal for a meal with family or friends. We hope you will experience the “delicious” taste of the owner, Kihara, who has trained at various yakiniku restaurants and has been pursuing ‘yakiniku’ for years."

Joubutsu Iwakage Ruins are ancient ruins located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, where relics from the Jomon period left behind in the shade of rocks have been discovered. The ruins provide valuable clues to the life of the people of the time, especially the large number of earthenware and stone tools that have been excavated. The surrounding natural environment is also rich, and from the walking paths around the ruins, visitors can feel the ancient landscape as well as the historical background. The site has high archaeological value and is an important spot for learning about the history of the region.

Surrounded by the great nature of Okuyufuin, the ”onsen” hotel offers an environment where you can fully relax. Enjoy the lush green of nature during the day, and the star-filled sky at night.