Day in Kusu An Experience Through Rural Japan

The Bungo-Mori Engine House is Kyushu's only surviving fan-shaped roundhouse, designated as a Site of Modern Industrial Heritage. Built in 1934 for steam locomotives on the Kyudai Line, this impressive structure features a distinctive semi-circular design with radiating tracks. Today, visitors can see preserved steam locomotives and the historic turntable up close, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan's railway golden age.

Designed by renowned designer Eiji Mitooka, famous for luxury train "Seven Stars in Kyushu," this charming museum celebrates railway history and local culture. The museum features interactive exhibits, historic railway artifacts, and a cozy children's area with picture books and wooden toys. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on craft activities including origami and plastic plate crafts, making it perfect for families.

Mishima Park serves as the gateway to Mt. Tsunomure and features beautifully landscaped gardens that are part of the nationally designated "Former Kurushima Family Garden." The park is especially stunning during autumn when vibrant fall foliage transforms the landscape. As the starting point for hiking trails to Tsunomure Castle ruins, the park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Perched at 577 meters above sea level, Tsunomure Castle was a strategic mountain fortress built between 1278-1288. The castle played a crucial role during Japan's Warring States period. Today, hikers can explore the remains of the Hon-maru (main bailey), Ni-no-maru (second bailey), and San-no-maru (third bailey), along with impressive stone walls. The mountaintop offers spectacular panoramic views of the Kusu Basin and surrounding mountains. This experience is designed for guests who enjoy hiking and occasional mountain walks. It is beginner-friendly for active travelers, but not recommended for people who do little to no exercise. The route and pace will be adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions.

Suehiro Shrine presents a unique castle-like appearance with its impressive stone walls and the Shimizu-gomon gate. The shrine complex features multiple levels connected by stone staircases, creating a fortress-like atmosphere. Visitors are often surprised to find castle architectural elements in a shrine setting, including massive water basins and defensive stone arrangements that reflect the area's samurai heritage.

The Seiho-ro Pavilion is an elegant two-story wooden structure built in 1821 as part of the Mori Domain's construction projects. Originally called "Momiji-no-Ochaya" (Maple Tea House), this castle tower-inspired building offers a glimpse into Edo-period aristocratic leisure. The pavilion is surrounded by beautiful gardens that form part of the nationally designated Former Kurushima Family Garden, providing a tranquil setting for contemplation and photography.

Mori-machi is a picturesque castle town that flourished for 270 years as the center of the Kurushima clan's domain. Walking through its peaceful streets feels like stepping back in time to the Edo period. Visitors can explore historic samurai quarters, admire traditional architecture, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of a well-preserved provincial castle town. Its compact layout makes it ideal for a relaxing stroll through authentic Japanese history. After this, we'll enjoy local food at a nearby restaurant. The first restaurant option is Kintaro, a restaurant housed in a traditional Japanese house over 100 years old that has been renovated. The menu features popular local Oita specialties like toriten (chicken tempura) and dango jiru (dumpling soup), as well as the restaurant's signature melt-in-your-mouth omelet rice. If this restaurant is closed or fully booked, we'll have lunch at another restaurant nearby.

Mt. Kirikabu (685m) is Kusu's most iconic landmark, named for its distinctive flat-topped "tree stump" shape. The mountain summit features the stylish KIRIKABU HOUSE, designed by Eiji Mitooka, where visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Kusu Basin. The famous "Heidi's Swing" offers a magical photo opportunity with sweeping mountain vistas. The panoramic scenery evokes the Swiss Alps, creating an unforgettable alpine atmosphere in the heart of Kyushu.

This roadside station celebrates Kusu's identity as the birthplace of Takehiko Kurushima, known as "Japan's Hans Christian Andersen" and a pioneer of oral storytelling for children. The facility offers fresh local produce, Kusu rice, handmade crafts, and regional specialties. The on-site restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients, while the bakery offers freshly baked goods. It's the perfect final stop to pick up authentic souvenirs and taste the flavors of Kusu before your journey ends.