Toyonokuni Millennium Heritage Tourism Zone

The Toyonokuni Millennium Heritage Tourism Zone encompasses eight historic sites across Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan, collectively representing over 1,000 years of religious and cultural heritage. Designated as a Japan Heritage site in 2018, this network of temples, shrines, and cultural landscapes illustrates the region's role as a spiritual and political center from the 6th to 19th centuries. The zone takes its name from the ancient province of Toyonokuni, which once covered much of northeastern Kyushu.

The eight constituent sites demonstrate the evolution of Buddhism and Shinto practices in Japan. Usa Jingu, founded in 725 AD, is the head shrine of approximately 40,000 Hachiman shrines nationwide and played a crucial role in merging Buddhist and Shinto traditions. Futago-ji Temple on Mount Futago preserves mountain ascetic practices and houses several Important Cultural Properties. The Kunisaki Peninsula contains numerous stone Buddha carvings and temples that exemplify the unique Rokugo Manzan culture, a syncretic religious tradition combining Buddhism, Shinto, and mountain worship that flourished from the 8th century.

Visitors can explore ancient pilgrimage routes connecting the sites, many of which traverse forested mountains and rural valleys. The Kunisaki Long Trail, a hiking course spanning approximately 137 kilometers, links major temples and allows multi-day trekking through the historic landscape. Stone Buddha statues carved into cliff faces, some dating back 900 years, are accessible along various trails. Seasonal festivals at several sites, particularly at Usa Jingu, offer glimpses into living religious traditions.

The tourism zone is centered around Bungotakada City and extends across the Kunisaki Peninsula. Access is primarily via Oita Airport, located roughly 30 kilometers from central sites, with rental cars recommended for comprehensive exploration as public transportation between sites is limited. Some locations like Usa Jingu are accessible by train via the JR Nippo Line to Usa Station. Most temple and shrine sites request donations rather than fixed admission fees, typically around 300-500 yen, though some facilities like museum areas may charge set entrance fees.