Kitsuki

OITA CULTURE

It is the only place in Japan known as the Sandwich castle town. With the flavor of the Edo period remaining thick, it was the first in the country to be recognized as “Historic Cityscape with Kimono."
Around Kitsuki Castle, there is a group of samurai residences on the south and north hills, and a merchant town sandwiched in the valley between them. The rows of samurai residences and other buildings are a window into the past for you to enjoy and understand how the samurai and townspeople lived in the Edo period and what the town looked like. The view from the top of the hill is very dynamic, with the thatched roofs of the samurai residences and the white walls of homes, along with stone walls and bamboo groves forming a precious scenery that is often seen in a movie or TV drama.

View scenic routes that include this spot

EXPERIENCE THE QUINTESSENTIAL

Enjoy everything from the latest tourist spots and Edo culture of Tokyo to the hot springs and traditions of Oita

More Information about Kitsuki

Street address: 207 Ooaza Kitsuki, Kitsuki City, Oita
About OITA

Access

About 10 minutes by bus from JR Kitsuki Station.
Get off at Kitsuki Bus Terminal.

Opening Hours: Varies depending on the establishment

Closed: Varies depending on the establishment

Website: https://oita-tourism.com/en/attractions/detail_1051.html

Best season: All year

Point: At Rental Kimono Warakuan, not only do they offer more than 250 kimono for rent, but they also help get you dressed. Walking around the town in a kimono gets you free admission to the public sightseeing facilities, plus nice services such as meal discounts and small gifts at local shops.
There is also a Kimono Thanksgiving Day" held once a month, where presents are prepared and you can receive a commemorative photograph by a professional photographer.

update: Sep.9.2025