Bungotakada Showa Town (Bungo Takada City, Oita Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Bungotakada Showa Town is a shopping district and tourist area with a Showa retro theme, located in the center of Bungotakada City, Oita Prefecture. It began when local volunteers and the local government preserved and utilized old storefront architecture to recreate the atmosphere of Showa-era streetscapes and lifestyles, and its greatest appeal is being able to experience the good old days of Japan. Scattered throughout the area are old signs, candy stores, retro coffee shops and restaurants, and a mini museum displaying everyday items from the Showa era, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for people of all ages. It has also been used as a filming location for movies and commercials, making it a popular photo spot.

Highlights

• Showa Roman Collection (Museums and Archives)This facility was renovated from a storehouse and has a section displaying Showa-era lifestyle, cheap snacks, and toys, where you can enjoy seeing actual household items from that time (they sometimes hold special exhibitions and interactive events).
• Retro shopping street: A street that retains the "Showa era" feel with signs, glass doors, and shop eaves. Take photos while strolling around, or enjoy a Showa-era set meal at an old restaurant.
• Candy and toy stores: There are shops selling old-fashioned sweets and toys, so it's fun for both children and adults. We also recommend doing some small shopping as a souvenir.
• Retro cafe/restaurant: There are many shops offering Showa-era dishes such as cream soda, pancakes, and set meals. Enjoy the atmosphere.
• Events and seasonal events: Local festivals and Showa-themed events (cosplay, flea markets, night markets, etc.) are sometimes held here, making the area even more lively.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: Bungotakada Station on the JR Nippo Main Line (the nearest station is within walking distance of the town center)
• Walking: About 10-15 minutes on foot from Bungotakada Station (it's possible to walk there, and it's fun to stroll around).
• Buses and taxis: About a 5-minute taxi ride from the station. There are also local buses and community buses that operate (please note the frequency of services).
• car: Access by car is convenient from Oita City and Beppu. There are municipal and private parking lots scattered around, but they tend to fill up during peak hours, so we recommend arriving early.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour: 1 hour to 1.5 hours (just walking around the street and enjoying the atmosphere)
• A thorough tour: 2-3 hours (if you plan to eat and drink at Showa Roman Warehouse and several stores, shop, and thoroughly view the exhibits)
• Including sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (combined with sightseeing in the surrounding area, including temples, shrines, historical sites, and the Kunisaki Peninsula)

Nearby spots

• Fukiji Temple: This temple has an old Amida Hall that is a national treasure. It is worth visiting if you are interested in historical architecture.
• Kunisaki Peninsula area: This area is home to rock-carved Buddha statues, temples, and a unique culture of mountain worship. It's perfect for a drive around the area.
• Rock-carved Buddhas of Usuki: A famous spot (a group of stone Buddha statues) within driving distance. If you have time, it would be a good idea to visit both places.
• Local roadside stations and seafood spots: There are places nearby where you can enjoy seafood and local cuisine unique to Oita.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Busy period: The park gets crowded on weekends, holidays (Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season), and when events are held. Please make sure to secure a parking space and allow plenty of time to get around.
• Opening hours: Privately run shops and small museums often close early (generally around 5pm), so we recommend checking opening hours and closing days before your visit.
• Cash and Payment: Some small stores only accept cash. Electronic payments may not be accepted, so it's a good idea to have coins ready.
• Photo Shooting Etiquette: It is okay to take photos of store exteriors and streetscapes, but please be considerate and ask the store owner for permission before taking photos of the interior of a store or personal belongings. Photography of exhibits and some displays may be prohibited.
• Clothing and seasonal precautionsIn summer, the sun is strong and it gets hot, so wear a hat and stay hydrated. In winter, there are days when the wind can be cold, so dress warmly. In rainy weather, be careful as slopes and eaves can be slippery.
• Consideration for the local communityAlthough it is a tourist destination, it is also a residential area, so please observe basic etiquette such as keeping noise down and taking your trash with you.

Bungotakada Showa Town is an area where you can experience the Showa era lifestyle and atmosphere with all five senses. There is a lot of fun to be had by strolling around and discovering nostalgic flavors and shops, so we recommend taking your time and exploring the area at your own pace.