Oita Prefecture’s Hita City is the hometown of Hajime Isayama, author of the globally popular manga “Attack on Titan,” and features numerous must-see pilgrimage sites for fans. This article comprehensively introduces all pilgrimage spots in Hita City, centering on the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” and “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX.” It completely covers all necessary information for pilgrimage visits, including access methods, admission fees, highlights, and nearby dining spots.
The Deep Connection Between “Attack on Titan” and Oita Prefecture’s Hita City
“Attack on Titan” was serialized from 2009 to 2021 and became a mega-hit manga that surpassed 140 million copies in total circulation worldwide. The author, Hajime Isayama, is from Oyama Town in Hita City, Oita Prefecture, and Hita’s rich nature and scenery had a significant influence on the work’s world view.
Isayama spent his childhood in Hita City, and the massive walls of the Oyama Dam and the surrounding mountains are said to have influenced the formation of the iconic “walls” in “Attack on Titan.” Hita City honors Isayama’s achievements and is implementing the “Shingeki no Hita” project city-wide, welcoming many fans as a pilgrimage destination.
Attack on Titan in HITA Museum | Main Building’s Appeal and Highlights
Facility Overview and Basic Information
The “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” is an exhibition facility located within the roadside station “Mizube no Sato Oyama.” Positioned at 4106 Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture, it has become the central pilgrimage spot in Hita City.
Basic Information:
- Location: 4106 Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture
- Hours: Weekdays 9:30–16:00 / Weekends and holidays 9:30–17:00
- Phone: 0973-52-3630
- Closed: Irregular closures
- Admission: Adults (18+) ¥500 / Children (under 18) Free
- Parking: Free (shared with roadside station)
The Overwhelming Power of the Colossal Titan Object
Upon entering the museum, the first thing that catches the eye is a Colossal Titan object several meters tall. This three-dimensional representation of the work’s iconic character immediately draws visitors into the world of “Attack on Titan.” The impressive sculpture has become a popular photo spot for commemorative photos, and SNS-worthy pictures can be captured here.
Rare Original Artwork Displays and Isayama’s Journey
Inside the museum, numerous precious original artworks by Hajime Isayama are displayed. Not only original artwork from the serialized series but also works Isayama created during his childhood and youth are shown, allowing visitors to understand how one mangaka grew and created a globally recognized work.
The exhibition includes:
- Original artwork of famous scenes from “Attack on Titan”
- Early concept sketches and rough drafts
- Works from Isayama’s childhood
- Evolution of character designs
- Video content explaining the creation process
Immersive Comic Experience
The “Immersive Comic” using cutting-edge digital technology is one of the museum’s featured exhibits. Comic panels unfold three-dimensionally, and with sound effects, it becomes an experiential content that allows you to immerse yourself in the work’s world. The sensation of still manga coming to life becomes a special experience for fans.
Original Merchandise Sales
The museum shop sells numerous original items exclusive to Hita. T-shirts, keychains, clear files, postcards, and other products available only here are popular as mementos from pilgrimage visits.
Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX | New Headquarters Within Sapporo Brewery Factory
ANNEX Facility Overview
The “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX” is a second exhibition site opened in 2021 on the grounds of the Sapporo Brewery Kyushu Hita Factory. The sudden appearance of the “Attack on Titan” world within the green, nature-rich environment of a brewery factory creates a unique impression for visitors.
Basic Information:
- Location: 6979 Takase, Hita City, Oita Prefecture (within Sapporo Brewery Kyushu Hita Factory)
- Hours: 10:00–16:00 (final entry 15:30)
- Closed: Mondays (if a holiday, the following day), year-end and New Year
- Admission: Adults (18+) ¥500 / Children (under 18) Free
- Parking: Free
Unique Exhibition Content at ANNEX
ANNEX features different exhibition content than the main building, so visiting both allows for a deeper enjoyment of the “Attack on Titan” world. Particularly, the full-size model of the 3D Maneuver Gear and diorama displays recreating important scenes from the work are impressive.
ANNEX’s characteristic displays:
- Detailed reproduction model of the 3D Maneuver Gear
- Survey Corps equipment displays
- Character panel photo zones
- Timeline and world-view explanation panels
- Limited video content screenings
Combining ANNEX with Sapporo Brewery Factory Tour
When visiting ANNEX, it’s recommended to combine it with a tour of the Sapporo Brewery Kyushu Hita Factory. After viewing the beer manufacturing process, you can sample freshly made beer at the factory tour (reservations required). Experiencing both the world of “Attack on Titan” and Kyushu’s beer culture simultaneously offers a unique tourism plan only possible in Hita.
Museum Combination Ticket for Savings
For those planning to visit both the main building and ANNEX, discounted combination tickets are available. Using a combination ticket allows you to enjoy pilgrimage more economically, as what normally costs ¥500 each can be purchased at a set price. Tickets are available at each facility’s reception.
Pilgrimage Spots Around Hita Station
Attack on Titan Hita Cafe | Fans’ Gathering Place
The “Attack on Titan Hita Cafe” within walking distance from Hita Station is a themed cafe where you can take a perfect break during pilgrimage. In 2023, a second floor opened, making the facility even more enriching.
Basic Information:
- Location: 11-13 Motomachi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture
- Hours: 10:00–17:00
- Closed: Wednesdays
The cafe offers original menus inspired by the work, with popular items like “Walled World Curry” imagining the walled world from the series and character-inspired drinks. The interior displays artwork reproductions and life-size character panels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the work’s world view while dining.
The second floor features original illustrations, autographs, and rare merchandise displays, making it a must-see space for fans. Limited merchandise is also sold, with cafe-exclusive coasters and stickers being popular souvenirs.
Hita Station South Plaza Giant Statue
Character statues based on original designs by Isayama are installed at Hita Station’s South Plaza. The statue project has been implemented multiple times, with bronze statues of main characters like Eren, Mikasa, and Armin being erected sequentially.
Each statue is created at life-size or larger proportions, meticulously recreating the character’s distinctive poses and expressions. At night, they are illuminated, offering a different atmosphere from daytime. Fans constantly take commemorative photos here, with numerous SNS posts visible.
The statue bases feature Isayama’s handwritten messages and famous lines from the work, making it an emotional experience for fans.
Hita Station Tourist Information Office for Information Gathering
The tourist information office inside Hita Station provides detailed information about “Shingeki no Hita.” Free pilgrimage maps, latest information on each facility, and public transportation schedules are available to help plan an efficient pilgrimage. Staff are helpful with first-time visitors, so it’s recommended to gather information here first.
Pilgrimage Spots in the Oyama Area
Oyama Dam | The Origin of the Work’s World View
Oyama Dam is considered the origin of the image of “walls,” the symbol of “Attack on Titan.” The massive dam, at 94 meters high and 370 meters long, evokes the impressive walls depicted in the work.
Access Information:
- Location: Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture
- Viewing: Free and open to public
- Parking: Available (free)
From the dam’s observation deck, you can see a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, allowing you to re-experience the landscape Isayama saw during childhood. Particularly during new green season or autumn foliage, the harmony of natural beauty and grand artificial structures makes it ideal for photography.
Walking trails are developed around the dam lake, allowing you to stroll leisurely while contemplating the work’s world view. The serene environment offers a healing escape from urban noise.
Soufuren | Gourmet Spot Connected to Isayama
“Soufuren” in Oyama Town is a famous restaurant serving Hita’s specialty teppanyaki-style yakisoba, known as a taste Isayama enjoyed since childhood. It’s definitely a must-visit gourmet spot during pilgrimage.
Basic Information:
- Location: Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture (within Mizube no Sato Oyama Roadside Station)
- Hours: 11:00–15:00 (until sold out)
- Closed: Irregular closures
Soufuren’s teppanyaki yakisoba is boldly cooked on a hot plate, featuring crispy noodles and sweet-spicy sauce. It’s hearty and perfect for replenishing energy after a day of sightseeing. The interior displays Isayama’s autograph and “Attack on Titan” related displays, and you can see fans interacting while dining.
Mizube no Sato Oyama Roadside Station
The roadside station where the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” is located is ideal as a pilgrimage hub. Beyond the museum, it features a farmers market selling fresh local produce and specialty items, restaurants, and rest areas.
The roadside station’s specialty section displays Oyama’s umeboshi (pickled plums), yuzu products, and local vegetables, presenting Hita’s charm. There are also limited items with “Attack on Titan” collaboration packaging, making souvenir shopping enjoyable.
The facility includes a foot bath for relaxing after sightseeing, with clear streams flowing nearby and a nature-rich environment for refreshment.
Access Methods and Efficient Routes for Pilgrimage
Public Transportation Access
From Fukuoka:
- JR Hakata Station to Hita Station via JR Kyudai Line in approximately 1.5–2 hours
- High-speed bus “Hita-go” from Hakata Bus Terminal to Hita Bus Center in approximately 1.5 hours
From Oita:
- JR Oita Station to Hita Station via JR Kyudai Line in approximately 1.5 hours
From Hita Station to Each Spot:
- Attack on Titan Hita Cafe: approximately 10 minutes walk
- Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX: approximately 15 minutes by taxi or bus
- Attack on Titan in HITA Museum (Main Building): approximately 30 minutes by taxi or bus
Limited route bus frequency from Hita Station to the museum main building and ANNEX makes taxi use convenient. Renting a car or bicycle allows more freedom visiting each spot.
Access by Car
From Fukuoka:
- Via Kyushu Expressway “Hita IC” to each spot
- Approximately 10 minutes from Hita IC to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX
- Approximately 30 minutes from Hita IC to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum (Main Building)
From Oita:
- Via Oita Expressway “Hita IC”
Car access offers the most flexibility, allowing efficient visits to multiple spots in one day. All facilities have free parking.
Recommended Pilgrimage Route
One-Day Course (by car):
- Morning: Hita Station South Plaza statue viewing (30 min)
- Morning: Break and shopping at Attack on Titan Hita Cafe (1 hour)
- Morning: Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX viewing (1 hour)
- Lunch: Sapporo Brewery Factory or lunch in the city
- Afternoon: Attack on Titan in HITA Museum (Main Building) viewing (1.5 hours)
- Afternoon: Teppanyaki yakisoba at Soufuren (light meal)
- Afternoon: Oyama Dam viewing (1 hour)
Half-Day Course (by public transportation):
- Arrive at Hita Station → view South Plaza statue
- Break and lunch at Attack on Titan Hita Cafe
- Move by taxi to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX for viewing
- Return to Hita Station by taxi for departure
With extra time, staying overnight at a Hita hot spring to leisurely enjoy pilgrimage is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Spots and Accommodation Information
Hita Hot Spring Resort Area
Hita City is also known as a hot spring destination where you can enjoy hot springs along with pilgrimage. Numerous hot spring inns line the Mikuma River, allowing you to relax while enjoying the river’s murmur.
Hita hot springs are characterized by weakly alkaline water believed to have skin-beautifying properties, ideal for relieving sightseeing fatigue. In summer, some inns offer cormorant fishing viewing, allowing you to experience Hita’s traditional culture.
Mameda Town’s Historic Streetscape
Mameda Town in Hita City features preserved Edo-period streets and is selected as a National Important Group of Traditional Buildings. The quaint streetscape with whitewashed warehouses and old shops is enjoyable for strolling.
Mameda Town features traditional craft shops, Japanese sweet shops, and cafes, making it perfect for souvenir hunting. Combined with “Attack on Titan” pilgrimage, touching upon Hita’s historical culture makes for a more fulfilling trip.
Hita Gion Festival (July)
Held annually in July, the Hita Gion Festival is a traditional event with approximately 300 years of history and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Witnessing lavish floats parading through streets is spectacular; visiting during this period allows simultaneous enjoyment of pilgrimage and festival viewing.
Items to Bring and Precautions for Pilgrimage
Convenient Items to Bring
- Camera/smartphone: Essential for commemorative photos
- Pilgrimage map: Available at Hita Station tourist information office
- Comfortable walking shoes: Necessary for facility travel and sightseeing
- Drinks: Particularly important for heat stroke prevention in summer
- Rain gear: Mountain areas are prone to weather changes
- Portable battery: Photo taking and information searches drain batteries
Visiting Precautions
- Confirm facility hours and closed days in advance (especially ANNEX is closed Mondays)
- Winter mountain areas may have frozen roads
- Museum areas have photography-allowed and restricted zones; follow signs
- Entry restrictions may apply during busy times (especially weekends and long holidays)
- It’s also a living community; maintain proper manners while visiting
Latest Information and Events
Hita City regularly hosts “Attack on Titan” related events. New statue unveilings, limited-period special exhibitions, and collaboration events mean new discoveries with each visit.
Latest information updates continuously on the official “Attack on Titan in HITA” website and social media. Checking before visiting enables more fulfilling pilgrimage experiences. Particularly around Isayama’s birthday (August 29) and work commemorative dates, special projects often occur.
Conclusion: Experience the “Attack on Titan” World in Oita Prefecture’s Hita City
Oita Prefecture’s Hita City is a special place for “Attack on Titan” fans. As Hajime Isayama’s hometown and the origin of the work’s world view, this location offers excitement and emotion impossible to experience through manga or anime alone.
At the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” main building and ANNEX, enjoy rare artwork and displays. Around Hita Station, take commemorative photos with character statues and at the cafe. At Oyama Dam, touch the grand nature that inspired the work’s world, and taste local gourmet offerings that showcase Hita’s charm—all of these constitute a pilgrimage experience unique to Hita.
Accessible by public transportation or car, enjoyable as a day trip or overnight stay, Hita City awaits. For a deeper understanding of “Attack on Titan” and connection with Isayama’s roots, please visit Hita City. A special memory lasting a lifetime for fans awaits in Oita Prefecture’s Hita City.
