The highlight of the museum is the sculptures by the world-renowned sculptor Kan Yasuda, a local from Bibai City. Over 40 sculptures, which are scattered across the spacious grounds, harmonize effortlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering a sight to behold for visitors. This valuable museum invites visitors to embrace the energy and emotions of people and the memories of the city that had its moments of ups and downs as a mining town.

“Namahage” is a traditional folk ritual held on New Year’s Eve amid the deep snow that blankets the Oga Peninsula. Listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, namahage is portrayed by men wearing ogre masks who roam around houses shouting and admonishing children who have been naughty. They are considered gods who bring good luck and plentiful food from the mountains and sea.

The Osafune district has been a renowned production site of quality Japanese swords since ancient times. The museum exhibits various historical swords and provides insight into sword-making techniques. Visitors can observe all the different processes and skills, including traditional forging, sword mounting and engraving on the blade. The sight of an artisan powerfully striking the steel and sparks flying is truly impressive.

The Shikoku pilgrimage route was established over 1,000 years ago. It is a journey that leads to 88 Buddhist temples spread all over the region. Traditionally, the pilgrims completed the 1,400 km journey on foot, but the use of modern modes of transportation, such as cars and buses, has become common in recent years. Walk along the pilgrimage route to discover picturesque landscapes where nature and culture come together—a refreshing experience for both mind and body.

Dotted with many architectural masterpieces designed by the world-famous architect Kengo Kuma, the whole town of Yusuhara is like an art gallery. Built with locally sourced Japanese cedar, the building complex effortlessly blends in with the natural surroundings while exuding a strong presence. The unique structure of Kumono ue no Gallery (Yusuhara Wooden Bridge Museum), built using Japan’s traditional construction technique, is a must-see.

Designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the beautiful contemporary art museum sits by the waterfront overlooking Nagasaki Harbor. The glass-walled space, which lets in abundant natural light, displays a collection of medieval to contemporary Spanish artworks as well as works related to the region. The museum also has a café and a shop where you can have a relaxing time and become one with the beautiful surrounding nature.

Mount Aso, an active volcano with one of the largest calderas in the world, has been worshipped as a sacred place since ancient times. It is comprised of five peaks, and visitors can observe volcanic activities up close near the crater. The vast grasslands offer a scenic landscape that changes season by season, making it an ideal destination for hiking or driving from spring through fall and snow-covered scenery in winter.