Visit Hiji during the train ride from Beppu to the historic village of Kitsuki. Hiji has distinctive, diverse charms. Appreciate the peaceful bayside setting and explore Hiji’s many cultural attractions, from Hello Kitty to modern art to Trappist monks.
Hiji initially developed as an early 17th-century castle town. Begin your visit at the Hiji Castle Ruins. Although it was never particularly large, this proud structure occupied a strategic location overlooking Beppu Bay. Imagine Hiji’s bygone glory days as you admire the remaining stone fragments of tower, wall and moat.
Visit the Nikaido Museum of Art, which holds over 1,000 artworks. Peruse its collection of Nihonga, a particular Japanese style of paintings made after 1900 using traditional techniques. Look for pieces by Oita-area artists as well as such major Nihonga practitioners as Uemura Shoen and Yokoyama Taikan.
Relax in the calm of Shookuji Temple, the temple of the family clan that ran Hiji in its early heyday. Stroll through the landscaped garden, attributed to the prominent 15th-century artist Sesshu. Notice the temple’s famous sago palm tree, over 600 years old and rising to the height of 21 feet (6.4 meters). For a different spiritual experience, drive outside town to see the Trappist Monastery where you can buy monk-made cookies, wine and butter.
Head into the countryside to experience the kawai family fun of Harmony Land, a theme park dedicated to Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters. Ride the Ferris wheel, drive electric go-karts and watch an entertaining seasonal live show.
Reach Hiji via a 35-minute train ride from neighboring Kitsuki or Beppu or rent a car so you can visit some of the more remote locations. The nearest international airport is a 2-hour drive away in Fukuoka. Explore the town by foot, with most main sites close the station.
Before leaving Hiji, photograph some of the colorful historic kote-e plasterwork decorating many of the town’s older buildings.
