Step into a thousand years of sacred silence. Founded in the early Heian period (827 C.E.), Yusuhara Hachimangu stands as the historic 'Ichinomiya' (first-rank shrine) of the ancient Bungo Province. Revered for centuries by powerful samurai clans, this mystical mountain sanctuary remains beautifully untouched by modern commercialism. Visitors approach via a moss-covered stone staircase winding through a dense, primeval cedar and camphor forest. The absolute crown jewel of the grounds is a colossal, sacred camphor tree - a designated National Natural Monument estimated to be over 3,000 years old that has stood watch since long before the country of Japan was even formed.

A chic, revitalised waterfront park built directly on the grounds of Oita’s historic ferry terminal. Featuring sweeping wooden boardwalks, expansive harbour lawns, and panoramic ocean vistas across Beppu Bay, this stylish coastal district seamlessly bridges maritime history with modern leisure. The neighbourhood's standout highlight is its beautifully restored vintage warehouse district, which has been artfully converted into hip artisan cafes, independent design boutiques, and local music venues. It serves as an idyllic, breezy harbour rest stop for travellers exploring the scenic coastal paths between Beppu and Oita City.

A fascinating, deeply hidden cultural gem tucked away in the bamboo forests of Beppu's rural Akamatsu hillsides. Located on the quiet grounds of an abandoned, mystical early 20th-century temple site, this clearing features a collection of six rare, hand-sculpted cliff-carved stone Buddhas ('Magaibutsu'), created by travelling stonemasons.

A premier, modern coastal oasis positioned directly along the iconic Beppu-Oita seaside highway. Far more than a standard roadside rest stop, this vibrant community hub serves as a state-of-the-art sanctuary for cyclists and outdoor adventurers, boasting full bike maintenance bays, public shower facilities, and elevated viewing decks overlooking the ocean. Inside, history comes alive in a dedicated cultural museum housing a beautifully preserved, walk-in vintage streetcar that once braved the region's cliffside tracks decades ago. It is an exceptional stopover for regional foodies, featuring a buzzing market packed with fresh Beppu Bay seafood bowls and local gourmet treats.