Shrine · Oita City (Yusuhara)
Yusuhara Hachimangu 柞原八幡宮
Ancient forested shrine in the hills above Oita city, ranked as Bungo's ichinomiya, with lacquered Edo-period halls and a giant camphor tree said to be about 3,000 years old.
About
Founded in the 9th century as a branch of Usa Jingu, Yusuhara Hachimangu was the first-ranked shrine of old Bungo province and a power centre for the Otomo clan. The approach climbs a quiet valley to a spectacular complex of vermilion and polychrome buildings, many designated Important Cultural Properties, including the elaborately carved Minamimon gate nicknamed 'Higurashi-mon' because you could gaze at it until dusk. Beside the approach stands the colossal camphor tree (Ookusu), a National Natural Monument estimated at around 3,000 years. It is about 20 minutes by car from Beppu and makes a superb half-day with Takasakiyama and Umitamago.
Highlights
- Elaborately carved 'Higurashi-mon' south gate
- Giant camphor tree, a National Natural Monument
- Edo-period lacquered halls, Important Cultural Properties
- Forested valley approach with almost no crowds
Tips
- Bus service is sparse; taxi from Oita or Beppu is easiest
- Autumn foliage in late November is excellent
- Allow time to walk round the back of the main hall to see the carvings
- Pair with Takasakiyama monkeys on the coast road
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09
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- Tanoura BeachBeach & Waterfront · 2.2 km away
- Umitamago Aquarium (Oita Marine Palace)Zoo & Aquarium · 2.7 km away
- Takasakiyama Natural ZooZoo & Aquarium · 2.8 km away
- Sunflower Terminal Oita Port Coin LockersLuggage Storage · 3.6 km away
- Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM)Museum · 4.7 km away
- YoichiSushi & Seafood · 4.9 km away
- Tsuki no KiSushi & Seafood · 4.9 km away
- Miyakomachi Nightlife District (Oita City)Bars & Nightlife · 5.1 km away