What is Yabakei?
Yabakei is one of Japan's top scenic spots located in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture.
It is known for its stunning rock formations and gorge beauty, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of each season.
It is particularly famous as a renowned autumn foliage spot, where the area is covered in breathtaking red and yellow colors in the fall.
✅ One of Japan's Three Great Strange Landscapes!
✅ Experience the great outdoors all year round
✅ Perfect for cycling and trekking!
Explore the many attractions of Yabakei, from historic temples and bridges to beautiful gorges!
Highlights of Yabakei
1. One of Japan's Three Great Scenic Views: "Ao no Domon"
The representative tourist attraction of Yabakei is the "Ao no Domon" (Blue Tunnel).
Legend has it that in the Edo period, a monk named Zenka carved this tunnel using only a chisel and hammer.
Features of Ao no Domon
- A hand-dug tunnel approximately 342 meters long
- Highly valued for its historical significance as an Edo period achievement
- Fantastical scenery reflected in the quiet gorge
There are walking paths around the area, allowing for leisurely strolls.
2. Famous Autumn Foliage Spot "Hitome Hakkei"
Yabakei has many stunning autumn foliage spots, but the most famous is **"Hitome Hakkei"**.
It is named so because you can view eight stunning sceneries from this location.
Highlights
- Gorgeous gorge views dyed in red and yellow in the fall
- Fantastic views from the observation deck
- Enjoyable nature throughout the seasons
Especially during early to mid-November's foliage season, it is bustling with tourists.
3. Yabakei Dam and "Shin Yabakei"
Shin Yabakei is a more mystical area further in, offering a serene atmosphere.
The area around the Yabakei Dam is particularly tranquil and popular among tourists with cameras.
Recommended Activities
- Canoeing or boating on the lake (enjoy the calm waters)
- Hiking courses (numerous trails easy for beginners)
- Many photo spots (beautiful autumn foliage reflected in the water)
It's recommended for those who want to spend a leisurely time in nature.
4. Enjoy Cycling and Trekking!
Yabakei offers a cycling road utilizing the Old Yabakei Railway tracks.
Cycling leisurely through nature is guaranteed to be refreshing!
Recommended Ways to Enjoy
- Explore the gorge with rental bicycles
- Immerse yourself in nature on trekking courses
- Beginner-friendly hiking courses are available
The charm is being able to enjoy Yabakei's nature at your own pace.
5. Don't Miss Yabakei Cuisine!
Oita Prefecture is known not only for its hot springs but also for its delicious local cuisine.
During your Yabakei tour, be sure to savor the local flavors!
Recommended Cuisine
- Yabakei Soba (delicious soba grown in local clear streams)
- Local Chicken Dishes (juicy local chicken grilled over charcoal)
- Seafood from Buzen Sea (enjoy fresh seafood)
Meals enjoyed while overlooking the gorge are exceptional!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access to Yabakei
Access by Train
- About 40 minutes by bus from JR Nakatsu Station
Access by Car
- About 1 hour and 30 minutes via expressway from Fukuoka City
- About 1 hour by car from Oita City
Access by Bus
- Tourist buses operate from Nakatsu Station
2. Recommended Accommodations
Recommended Accommodations Around Yabakei
- Yabakei Onsenkan (accommodations where you can enjoy the onsen while viewing the gorge)
- Auberge Kaze no Mori (stylish accommodations nestled in nature)
- Hotels in Nakatsu City are also convenient! (good access)
Summary and FAQs
Summary
✅ Yabakei is one of Japan's Three Great Strange Landscapes!
✅ Full of attractions like "Ao no Domon" and "Hitome Hakkei"
✅ Highly recommended during the autumn foliage season!
✅ Enjoy the great outdoors through cycling and trekking
✅ Delight in the local cuisine!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best season to visit Yabakei?
A: **Autumn (foliage season)** is highly recommended! However, the fresh greenery of spring and snow scenery in winter are also beautiful.
Q: Can Yabakei be enjoyed on a day trip?
A: Yes! Access from Nakatsu Station is convenient, and you can visit the major spots in half a day to a full day.
Q: What are the recommended activities in Yabakei?
A: Cycling and hiking are popular. Additionally, you can enjoy hot springs and local cuisine!
Experience the breathtaking nature and history of Yabakei; be sure to visit at least once!
