Kokonoe is a small town located in the northern part of Oita Prefecture, Japan. It is a charming rural area with traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, lush green mountains, and a tranquil atmosphere. The town is renowned for its production of high-quality vegetables, especially potatoes. With its rich history and spectacular natural scenery, Kokonoe is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of rural Japan.
Kokonoe is home to several historical sites, including the Bussho-ji Temple and the Ishimaru Shrine. The temple is a National Important Cultural Property and is a great place to explore the history and architecture of the area. Nearby, the Ishimaru Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture. Both of these sites offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Nature lovers will find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Kokonoe. The area is known for its hiking trails, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Ushiro-gawa River or explore the Kannon-dake Mountain Range. For those who prefer to relax, there are many hot springs located throughout the town.
Kokonoe is also a great place to sample some of Japan’s delicious local cuisine. The town is known for its oysters and other seafood dishes, as well as traditional Japanese dishes such as ramen and tempura. There are also a variety of cafes and restaurants serving local specialties.
Kokonoe is a great destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat in rural Japan. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine, Kokonoe is a great place to get away from it all.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Kuriyama Onsen: Located in the heart of the Kokonoe region, Kuriyama Onsen is a traditional hot spring resort that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
2. Kagami Lake: Kagami Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
3. Kochi Castle: Kochi Castle is a historic castle located in the south of Kokonoe that offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
4. Gokanosho: Gokanosho is a small village located in the hills of Kokonoe and is known for its traditional architecture and rural atmosphere.
5. Shirakawa-go: Shirakawa-go is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northwest of Kokonoe, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
1. Kokonoe Yume-Otsurihashi: This breathtaking suspension bridge is located in the heart of the Aso Kuju National Park and spans a width of nearly 500 meters. It offers stunning views of the lush forests and mountains of the area.
2. Mount Aso: This active volcano is the largest in Japan and is located within the Aso Kuju National Park. From the peak of the volcano, visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramas of the surrounding countryside.
3. Mount Takachiho: This sacred mountain is considered to be the birthplace of the Japanese gods and is home to the Takachiho Shrine. Visitors can take part in the traditional ritual of “omiyage”, which includes throwing coins into the shrine’s fountain.
4. Uruma Shrine: Located in the picturesque village of Uruma, this shrine is dedicated to the goddess of longevity. It is especially popular during the New Year’s celebrations due to its association with long life.
5. Onsen Hot Springs: Located around the Aso Kuju National Park, these natural hot springs offer a great opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. There are several public and private baths to choose from.
1. Kochi-yaki: Kochi-yaki is a type of savory pancake made with a batter of eggs, flour, and broth, and topped with pork, vegetables, and sauces.
2. Yakitori: Yakitori is a popular Japanese skewer dish made of grilled chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients.
3. Katsu-don: Katsu-don is a dish of fried pork cutlet, egg, and vegetables served over a bed of rice.
4. Kurobuta Tonkatsu: Kurobuta Tonkatsu is a type of deep-fried pork cutlet made with high-quality black pork and served with a special sauce.
5. Sashimi: Sashimi is a classic Japanese dish made of fresh raw fish, usually served with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.