Things To Do
in Usa

Usa is a small city in Ōita Prefecture on Kyushu, Japan, best known for the historic Usa Jingū (Usa Hachiman-gū) shrine complex and its role in Japan’s spiritual history. The surrounding landscape blends gentle agricultural plains with access to the rugged Kunisaki Peninsula, dotted with ancient temples and coastal viewpoints. Usa serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby onsen towns like Beppu and Yufuin, as well as cultural sites such as the Usuki Stone Buddhas.

Visitors will find a relaxed, rural atmosphere with friendly local hospitality and opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Tokyo
morning
:

Arrive at Narita International Airport and take the Narita Express to the heart of Tokyo. Check into your hotel, freshen up, and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling streets of Shibuya and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing, a fascinating experience filled with energy and excitement. Visit the Meiji Shrine, nestled in a tranquil forest, and learn about its historical significance. Savor lunch at a local ramen shop, tasting authentic flavors of Japan.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the iconic Tokyo Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Indulge in a sushi dinner at a renowned restaurant, experiencing the art of Japanese cuisine. End your night by strolling through the vibrant streets of Akihabara, exploring its shops and arcades.

day 2
Cultural Day in Kyoto
morning
:

Travel to Kyoto via the Shinkansen (bullet train), enjoying the scenic journey. Upon arrival, visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at its reflection on the tranquil pond. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks create an enchanting atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant, savoring local delicacies. Explore the nearby Iwatayama Monkey Park for a unique wildlife encounter.

evening
:

Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner in Kyoto to indulge in seasonal dishes beautifully presented. After dinner, take a stroll through the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Capture the magical ambiance of Kyoto at night as lanterns light up the paths.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
Coffee$3-5
🚌Local bus or short taxi$2-10
🚆Regional train to Oita/Beppu$5-20
🏨Mid-range hotel / ryokan (per night)$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage centered on Usa Jingū and historic temples on the Kunisaki Peninsula
  • Quiet, scenic rural landscapes and coastal views with excellent photo opportunities
  • Close to onsen towns like Beppu and cultural sites like the Usuki Stone Buddhas
  • Authentic local atmosphere with fewer tourists than major cities
  • Limited English signage and fewer tourist services compared with big cities
  • Public transport is less frequent—having a car or planning schedules carefully is helpful
  • Weather can be wet in summer (rainy season) and occasionally affected by typhoons
  • Fewer late-night dining and entertainment options locally
  • "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
  • "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you (very much)
  • "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "お願いします (Onegaishimasu)" - Please / I would like (used when ordering or requesting)
  • "トイレはどこですか? (Toire wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "ダシは入っていますか? (Dashi wa haitte imasu ka?)" - Does this contain fish broth (dashi)?

Places to Visit in Usa

Visit one of these nice places.

Usa Jingū (Usa Hachiman-gū)

Historic shrine complex with striking torii gates, wooden architecture, and atmospheric precincts—beautiful in morning light and during seasonal festivals.

Kunisaki Peninsula Temples

Temple clusters and mountain trails with ancient stone staircases, mossy statues, and panoramic coastal vistas—excellent for landscape and cultural shots.

Coastal Viewpoints

Clifftop and harbor vantage points along the nearby coastline offer sunrise/sunset shots and scenes of fishing boats and rocky shores.

Usuki Stone Buddhas (nearby Usuki)

A short drive away, these carved Buddha statues in stone niches make for striking close-up and wide-angle photography with historical context.

Rice Terraces and Rural Lanes

Seasonal scenes of rice paddies—especially during planting (spring) and harvest (autumn)—and quiet country lanes lined with traditional houses.

Culinary Guide

Food in Usa

Usa’s cuisine reflects Ōita Prefecture’s rich agricultural produce, fresh coastal seafood, and regional seasonings like kabosu (a citrus) and locally raised meats. Expect hearty home-style dishes and izakaya fare; specialty items from Oita appear alongside standard Japanese offerings.

Usa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Toriten

Oita-style tempura chicken: bite-sized chicken coated in a light batter and deep-fried. Commonly served with dipping sauce or a squeeze of kabosu; available at izakayas and casual restaurants.

Must-Try!

Bungo Beef

Locally raised premium beef from the region (Bungo is an old name for the area). Enjoy it as steak, in sukiyaki, or as yakiniku at local eateries or specialty grills.

Fresh Seafood

Coastal catches served as sashimi or in set meals—look for seasonal fish and shellfish at local restaurants and markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers’ Stalls

Small roadside stands and weekend markets around Usa sell seasonal vegetables, fruits (including kabosu), homemade pickles, and sweets—perfect for tasting local produce.

Harbor-side Eateries and Stalls

Near nearby fishing ports you’ll find simple stalls or small restaurants offering fresh sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood bento boxes—great for a casual coastal meal.

Climate Guide

Weather

Usa has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rainy season typically occurs in June–July; late summer and early autumn bring the risk of typhoons. Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Shrine Manners

When visiting shrines, bow at the torii, cleanse hands/mouth at the chozuya, and follow local customs for offerings and prayers—photograph respectfully and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.

Shoes and Indoor Rules

Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples, and older establishments—watch for geta/indoor slippers and follow hosts’ directions.

Quiet and Respect

Keep noise low on public transport and in residential neighborhoods; politeness and patience go a long way in interactions with locals.

Queueing and Rules

Line up and wait your turn; follow posted signs and instructions, especially at stations and bus stops.

Safety Guide

Safety

Usa is a very safe area with low crime rates typical of rural Japan. Standard precautions apply: watch for natural hazards such as typhoons, heavy rain, and occasional earthquakes, and check weather forecasts before hiking or coastal activities. Carry emergency contact numbers, and consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if you plan remote outdoor activities.

Tipping in Usa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can cause confusion; excellent service is part of the culture—simply say thank you. For guided private tours, a small gift or a polite thank-you note is preferable to cash tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used in rural areas—have yen on hand. ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post accept international cards. IC transit cards (SUGOCA, Suica, etc.) work in many places but may be less accepted in small shops; major credit cards are accepted at larger businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms and early-season flowers appear in March–April; mild temperatures make it ideal for temple visits and hiking. Expect some rainy days in April.

Summer

Hot and humid from June to August with a rainy season (tsuyu) typically in June–July; late summer can bring typhoons. If visiting, plan for early-morning hikes and stay hydrated.

Autumn

September–November offers comfortable weather and colorful foliage, especially on the Kunisaki Peninsula hikes—one of the best times for outdoor photography.

Winter

Winters are generally mild but can be cool and damp; occasional light snow in higher elevations. Onsen visits are especially pleasant in winter months.

Nightlife Guide

Usa at Night

Usa’s nightlife is low-key and local—expect small izakayas, family restaurants, and occasional karaoke bars rather than large clubs. Evenings are a good time to sample regional sake, chat with locals in neighborhood pubs, or relax at an onsen in a nearby town. For livelier nightlife and more dining variety, visit larger nearby cities like Beppu or Oita.

Hiking in Usa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kunisaki Peninsula Trails

Network of trails connecting temples, ridgelines, and coastal viewpoints; options range from short cultural walks to longer hikes—bring water and a map.

Futago-ji Temple Trail

A pilgrimage-style route up to Futago-ji with historic stone steps and temple buildings—offers spiritual atmosphere and panorama over the peninsula.

Rokugo Manzan Routes

Trails linking many small mountain temples and historical sites across the peninsula—great for those interested in cultural trekking and quiet mountain scenery.

Local Coastal Walks

Short cliff-top and harbor walks near fishing villages that provide easy hikes with sea views and birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Usa by plane.

Oita Airport (OIT)

The closest regional airport serving Oita Prefecture, with domestic flights and some seasonal routes; accessible by bus or car to Usa (about 40–60 minutes depending on route).

Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

Major international airport on northern Kyushu with extensive domestic and international connections; about 2–3 hours by train or car to Usa—useful if flying internationally or accessing more frequent flights.

Kagoshima / Miyazaki (via connections)

Further regional airports reachable with transfers; useful if combining trips around Kyushu but require longer ground travel to reach Usa.

Getting Around

Walkability

The immediate area around Usa Jingū and the central shopping streets are walkable on foot, with short distances between attractions. However, many highlights (coastal viewpoints, peninsula temples, and neighboring towns) are spread out; walking long distances between them is impractical—bike, car, or local bus are recommended for broader exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Japanese Residents

Predominantly Japanese population with a significant proportion of older adults, reflecting rural Japan’s aging demographic.

Commuters and Regional Workers

Residents who commute to nearby cities such as Oita or work in agriculture, fisheries, and local services.

Small Expat and Immigrant Community

A small number of foreign residents—language services are limited so learning basic Japanese is helpful.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is Japan’s most popular pastime nationwide; local schools and community teams play regularly and community games are common.

Soccer (Football)

Soccer has a strong following; regional clubs and youth teams are active, and nearby cities host J-League matches.

Fishing and Water Sports

Coastal fishing, sea-angling, and occasional recreational kayaking are popular along the nearby coastline.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Usa is generally light compared to urban centers, though roads can be narrow in rural areas. Public transportation is available via JR lines (regional trains) and local buses, but schedules are less frequent—check timetables in advance. Driving is convenient for exploring the Kunisaki Peninsula and coastal sights; parking is usually available at major attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Usa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but can be limited; order vegetable tempura, rice sets, and pickles, and communicate dietary needs clearly (use 'vegetarian' and specify no fish broth). Larger cafes or restaurants in Oita/Beppu offer more options.

Vegan

Vegan choices are limited in rural areas—plan ahead, carry snacks, and learn phrases to explain no fish/seafood and no dashi (fish stock). Bigger towns have more vegan-friendly cafés.

Allergies

If you have allergies, bring a translated allergy card in Japanese. Many dishes use soy, wheat, and fish-based dashi, so confirm ingredients before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Usa has local clinics and small hospitals for routine care; for major medical treatment, larger hospitals in Oita or Beppu provide comprehensive services. Pharmacies and 24-hour drugstores are less common in rural areas, so bring necessary prescription medications. In an emergency, dial 119 for ambulance and fire services.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide