The city of Kitsuki (nz) is located on the southern side of the Kunisaki Peninsula. The city center is sometimes referred to as a "sandwich castle town", because of its interesting topography of having two samurai districts on hills north and south respectively, sandwiching a commercial district in the middle. The districts combined measure about 500 meters north-south and 1.5 kilometers east-west, with Kitsuki Castle standing at the eastern end, close to the coast facing the Seto Inland Sea.
Successful efforts have been made to keep these historic districts free of distractions such as power lines and unsightly signs, thus preserving their authentic atmospheres. The beautiful town features multiple photogenic slopes and samurai residences open to the public. Amiable locals look forward to engage with visitors, making it a friendly environment for tourists.
Alley at the northern samurai district
Some of the town's best attractions are listed below. A combination ticket for 1200 yen (1500 yen from April 2026) provides admission to all of them. At Warakuan near the Historical Museum, visitors can rent kimono for around 3500 yen, dress in them and stroll the quaint town, taking pictures reminiscent of past centuries.
Kitsuki Castle
Kitsuki Castle
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: No closing days Admission: 400 yen (500 yen from April 2026)
Originally built in 1394, Kitsuki Castle was lost during the Meiji Period (1868-1912). The present three-tiered main keep was reconstructed in 1970. It is said to be the smallest castle in Japan. Standing on top of a plateau by the sea, it offers nice views overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Within the keep is a small museum, exhibiting items related to Kitsuki, such as the belongings of past feudal lords.
Northern Samurai District
Ohara Residence
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: No closing days Admission: 300 yen (400 yen from April 2026)
Members of the Ohara family were once the chief retainers of the local feudal lords. Their former residence is often considered the finest surviving samurai dwelling in Kitsuki, as its earthen walls, wooden facade and straw thatched roof combine to produce a very authentic image. Visitors are able to see various tatami mat and wooden floored rooms, as well as a lovely garden which surrounds the house.
Nomi Residence
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: December 29 to January 3 Admission: Free
This former samurai residence was recently restored to its original appearance. Unlike the other residences, it can be entered for free. In addition, it features a nice small cafe where various beverages and snacks are served.
Isoya Residence
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: December 29 to January 3 Admission: 300 yen (400 yen from April 2026)
This former samurai residence was at one time used as a resting place for the local feudal lord. Today, the residence houses a small art museum and displays scrolls of ink paintings and other works.
Sano Residence
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: December 29 to January 3 Admission: 150 yen (200 yen from April 2026)
Since the early Edo Period, members of the Sano family have been medical practitioners. Constructed in the 1700s, the Sano Residence is believed to be oldest wooden town house in Kitsuki in existence. Visitors can see medical tools used in the past, including a German-made microscope from the Meiji Period.
Southern Samurai District
Historical Museum
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: Wednesdays, December 29 to January 3 Admission: 300 yen (400 yen from April 2026)
The Kitsuki Castle Town Historical Museum is a modest museum exhibiting a range of cultural artifacts and items preserved from the past. On the first floor stands a large float that is used during the Tenjin Festival on July 25 in Kitsuki every year. There is also a diorama which shows how the town looked like in the past.
Hitotsumatsu Residence
Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30) Closed: December 29 to January 3 Admission: 150 yen (200 yen from April 2026)
This majestic residence was once the home of an important politician. It was completed relatively recently in 1929 and incorporates many architectural elements of both the Showa and Edo Periods. Visitors can view its wide tatami mat rooms and exhibits, such as antiques and drawings. Views of Kitsuki Castle and the sea can also be enjoyed.
Getting there and around
Kitsuki is located halfway between Beppu and Oita Airport.
Kitsuki Station stands about five kilometers outside of the city center. Buses connect the station with the Kitsuki Bus Terminal in the city center about every hour in 10 minutes and for 290 yen one way. Alternatively, a taxi ride into the city center costs around 2000 yen.
Some of the buses between Kitsuki Station and Kitsuki Bus Terminal (about one every 1-2 hours) further connect to Oita Airport. The ride between Oita Airport and Kitsuki Bus Terminal takes 30 minutes and costs 720 yen.
