Taketa 竹田エリア

Taketa has amazing landscapes, clean air, and natural spring water, and is well known for the latter. The water here is not just for bathing. Meisui no Sato is one of the springs in the area noted for its purity and great mineral properties, while Nagayu Onsen is most famous as the home of Japan's best carbonated water springs, and is notable for its health-inducing properties.

From Oita Station, take the JR Hohi Line for about 80 minutes and get off at Bungo-Taketa Station. Oita Station is served by the Kyudai, Hohi and Nippo lines, offering access to much of Kyushu .

Taketa's crystal-clear spring water comes from the Aso mountain range, and was selected as one of the best 100 springs in Japan.

It is used for farming trout and producing tofu and sprouts. Spring water is plentiful in Taketa and has become the trademark of the city.

Located on top of a hill, the castle was once thought to be impenetrable, but its main structures were torn down in the 19th century. Its grand stone walls remain to this day, indicating the astonishing building techniques used at the time.

Don't miss the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the former site.

Designated as a form of cultural heritage by the city, these stone statues look down from high rocks. It is said that the Aizendo figures make people's wishes related to love come true.

Easily accessible from Bungo Taketa Station, Taketa Onsen Hanamizuki is a popular bathing spot. Have a long soak in the large baths in this well-kept wood-paneled building.

After your bath, head to the souvenir shop on the first floor to pick up some original Taketa products, including sweets and seasonings.