Mitake Shrine

In Kiyokawa, Bungo-ono, Oita Prefecture, in a quiet corner surrounded by fields and mountains, sits Mitake Shrine. An old shrine said to have been founded in 1449 during the Muromachi period, it rarely appears in tourist guides and is a lesser-known power spot that local people have carefully protected.

Bungo-ono is a land of grand plateaus and gorges created by the eruptions of Mount Aso. Standing quietly in the midst of this nature, Mitake Shrine has grounds embraced by greenery that hold a mysterious atmosphere, and its history-laden bearing calms the hearts of those who visit.

Highlights

- Grounds wrapped in greenery — Surrounded by trees, the grounds have clear air and form a healing space full of the energy of nature. - Halls that convey history — The halls, with origins in the Muromachi period, carry the quiet dignity of having passed through long years. - A moment of stillness — With few visitors, you can savor a deep silence in which only birdsong and the rustle of trees echo.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring, fresh greenery colors the grounds with vitality, and in summer the tree shade brings cool repose. In autumn the surrounding mountains turn to red foliage, and you can enjoy worship alongside the natural beauty of Bungo-ono. In winter you can offer your prayers wrapped in a tightened stillness amid perfectly clear air. In every season, the appeal is a refreshing feeling of becoming one with nature.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Kiyokawa-machi, Bungo-ono, Oita Prefecture - Access: About 20 minutes by car from JR Mie-machi Station. About 25 minutes from the Ono interchange on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway. Public transport is infrequent, so a car is convenient. - Parking: Available - Visiting: Grounds open freely

A Quick Tip

Bungo-ono is an area dotted with natural power spots such as waterfalls and gorges. A drive touring the nearby sights combined with a visit to Mitake Shrine is also recommended. On the quiet grounds, take your time and breathe deeply without rushing. As you are wrapped in the scent of greenery and the clear air, you should feel your everyday fatigue ease away.