Discover The Soul of Usuki
Nestled along the eastern coast of Ōita Prefecture, Usuki City is a captivating blend of history, nature, culture and people, offering discerning travelers authentic and extraordinary experiences.
With a population of approximately 33,181 (as of February, 2025) and spanning 291.20 km², Usuki offers a tranquil escape from bustling metropolises. Whether wandering through its historic castle town, marveling at ancient stone Buddhas, or savoring flavors crafted through generations, visitors will find themselves immersed in the city’s timeless charm.
What's Inside:
Nestled along the shores of the Bungo Channel, Usuki City boasts a breathtaking coastline adorned with peaceful bays and picturesque islands. As the terrain gently rises inland, rolling hills and lush landscapes create a harmonious blend of sea and countryside, offering an idyllic escape for nature lovers and explorers alike.
The Usuki River, a vital lifeline of the region, meanders through the city, enhancing its serene charm.
Throughout the year, Usuki’s scenery is adorned with seasonal blooms—from spring’s cherry blossoms and plum trees to summer’s lotus and sunflowers. Autumn’s fiery maples and winter’s camellias complete the vibrant cycle, enhancing the city’s natural charm.
With warm summers and mild winters, Usuki enjoys a pleasant year-round climate, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and a deeper connection with nature.
Usuki City has long been a significant part of Bungo Province, shaping Japan’s feudal era with its strategic location and rich cultural exchanges. Before the Edo period, Usuki was deeply influenced by Ōtomo Sōrin, a powerful daimyo known for his embrace of Christianity and international trade. In 1562, Sōrin established Usuki Castle on Nyūjima Island, a natural fortress surrounded by the sea. His reign saw Usuki flourish as a center of commerce, welcoming Portuguese missionaries and fostering connections with European traders.
In 1600, the Dutch ship De Liefde was stranded on Usuki’s coast, marking the first Dutch-Japanese trading contact. This event not only introduced William Adams, the first Englishman to set foot in Japan, but also positioned Usuki as a vital gateway for foreign trade in Asia.
During the Edo period, Usuki came under the rule of the Inaba clan, governing the Usuki Domain. However, its legacy as an international hub continued and we can still see the remnants of its history today.
Usuki City is not only a treasure of history and natural beauty but also a gastronomic paradise recognized on the global stage. In 2021, Usuki was designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, celebrating its deep-rooted food traditions and commitment to sustainable culinary practices.
The city’s culinary identity is shaped by resourcefulness and sustainability, with dishes like "Kirasu-meshi", a local specialty that creatively combines fish scraps with tofu residue, reflecting the Edo-period philosophy of waste-free cooking. Another beloved dish, "Ohan", features rice dyed golden with gardenia fruit, originally crafted as a humble yet festive alternative to red rice.
The city has long been known for its fermentation and brewing heritage, producing some of Japan’s finest soy sauce, miso, and sake. But Usuki’s dedication to food culture goes beyond craftsmanship—it embraces organic farming, ensuring that locally grown produce is cultivated with care and respect for the environment.
Usuki’s coastal location also blesses it with an abundance of fresh seafood, making it a paradise for lovers of ocean delicacies. Among its most prized dishes is fugu (pufferfish), prepared with expert precision to highlight its delicate flavors.
Usuki is also home to refined Buddhist cuisine (shōjin ryōri), traditional Honzen cuisine, and exquisite fugu dishes, each reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Adding a unique touch to Usuki’s cuisine is kabosu, a fragrant citrus fruit that adds a refreshing zest and enhances the flavors of seafood, sake, and traditional dishes.
Whether savoring handcrafted sake, indulging in time-honored recipes, or exploring the city’s vibrant food festivals, visitors are invited to experience a culinary tradition that honors both heritage and sustainability.
1. A Scenic Haven of Natural Beauty and Tranquility
2. History of Transformation: From Samurai Stronghold to International Hub
3. Culinary Legacy: A UNESCO-Recognized Gastronomy
4. Must-See Landmarks: From Ancient Buddhas to Historical Path
A Scenic Haven of Natural Beauty and Tranquility
History of Transformation: From Samurai Stronghold to International Hub
Culinary Legacy: A UNESCO-Recognized Gastronomy
Must-See Landmarks: From Ancient Buddhas to Historical Path
Usuki is a city steeped in history, where culture and tradition blend seamlessly with stunning landscapes.
Highlights include the Usuki Stone Buddhas, magnificent ancient carvings designated as a National Treasure, and the Usuki Castle Ruins, once home to the Christian feudal lord Ōtomo Sōrin. Walk along the Niōza Historical Path, lined with traditional residences and temples, preserving the atmosphere of feudal Japan, or explore Hatchō Ōji, a lively merchant street showcasing Usuki’s architectural heritage. Step into Kuge no Ōkura, a grand storehouse reflecting the city’s prosperous past as an international trading hub, and visit the Inaba Family Lower Residence, where the refined lifestyle of a former ruling family comes to life.
Every corner of Usuki offers a glimpse into Japan’s timeless beauty, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking cultural depth and authenticity.
Vibrant Festivals and Living Traditions
Usuki City brings history and culture to life through its seasonal festivals. The year begins with the Hina Doll Festival (Feb–Mar), celebrating delicate paper-crafted dolls, followed by the Cherry Blossom Festival (Mar–Apr), where Usuki Castle Ruins are blanketed in pink blooms.
In summer, the Gion Festival (July) fills the city with lively processions, while the Lotus Festival (July) brings vibrant floral beauty. As autumn approaches, the Stone Buddhas Fire Festival (Aug) illuminates Usuki’s treasured carvings, and the Bamboo Lantern Festival (Nov) transforms historic streets into a glowing spectacle.
These traditions blend nature and heritage, offering visitors a rich cultural experience year-round.