Oita, Japan

Oita is a prefecture of Kyushu, Japan. Onsens! Onsens! Onsens! This is certainly what this Prefecture is famous for but there is a lot more offer from ancient Buddhist images to theme parks. With a much more laid back feel compared to the big cities of Honshu this is a good place to dive into the more rural Japan off the beaten track. The Oita area is historically known as Funai , the capital of Bungo. During the Sengoku period (15th - 16th century), the powerful Otomo clan based in Funai and the area prospered as a key port of trade with Portugal and Ming Dynasty China. Otomo Sôrin, a famous Christian Daimyo, first introduced western culture. It was in Funai that the first western style hospital was built and the first Japanese choir was formed. Takasaki mountain that borders Beppu is famous for wild monkeys, specifically the Japanese Macaque. At the entrance to the Takasaki-yama park is the "Marine Palace" aquarium, also known as Umi Tamago or Sea Egg . The Oita Stadium, also known as Big Eye or Kyushu Oil Dome, is situated along the city expressway. It is the home field of the J. League football club Oita Trinita and is used for large local events. In the middle of the city, there are many shops and department stores. Some major departmental stores include Tokiwa, Parco, Frespo Kasugaura, and D Plaza. There are also shopping malls in the suburbs, such as Tokiwa Wasada Town and Park Place Oita. Outside the city, scenic spots include mountain plateaus, seaside villages and towns renowned for onsen (geothermal hot springs).