Attack on Titan in HITA Museum Complete Guide|All Sacred Sites in Hita City, Oita Prefecture Explained in Detail
Hita City in Oita Prefecture is the hometown of Hajime Isayama, creator of the world-famous manga “Attack on Titan,” and contains numerous must-see pilgrimage sites for fans. This article focuses on the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” and “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX,” introducing all sacred sites within Hita City. It comprehensively covers access methods, admission fees, highlights, and nearby dining spots—all information necessary for a pilgrimage to sacred sites.
The Deep Connection Between “Attack on Titan” and Hita City, Oita Prefecture
“Attack on Titan” was serialized from 2009 to 2021 and exceeded 140 million copies sold worldwide, becoming a mega-hit manga. Creator Hajime Isayama is from Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture, and the natural landscapes and scenery of Hita have greatly influenced the work’s worldview.
Isayama spent his childhood in Hita City, and it is said that the massive walls of the Oyama Dam and the surrounding mountains influenced the formation of the work’s iconic “walls.” Hita City honors Isayama’s achievements and has launched the “Attack on Hita” project city-wide, welcoming many fans as a sacred pilgrimage destination.
Attack on Titan in HITA Museum|Main Building’s Charm and Highlights
Facility Overview and Basic Information
“Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” is an exhibition facility adjoining the roadside station “Mizube no Sato Oyama.” Located at 4106 Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture, it serves as the central hub for sacred site pilgrimages 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
- Admission: Adults (18+) ¥500 / Children (under 18) Free
- Parking: Free (shared with roadside station)
Overwhelming Impact of the Colossus Titan Object
Upon entering the museum, the first thing that catches the eye is a Colossus Titan object standing several meters tall. This three-dimensional representation of the work’s iconic character immediately draws visitors into the world of “Attack on Titan.” The imposing form has become a popular spot for commemorative photos, ideal for SNS-worthy shots.
Precious Original Art Exhibits and Isayama’s Journey
Numerous precious original artworks by Hajime Isayama are displayed throughout the museum. Beyond serialization art, works Isayama created during childhood and youth are also showcased, allowing visitors to understand how a manga artist grew and came to create a globally successful work.
Displays include:
- Original art from famous scenes in “Attack on Titan”
- Early concept sketches and rough drawings
- Isayama’s childhood works
- Character design evolution
- Video content explaining the creative process
Immersive Comic Experience
The “Immersive Comic,” utilizing cutting-edge digital technology, is one of the museum’s highlight exhibits. Comic panels unfold three-dimensionally with sound effects, creating an immersive experience in the work’s world. The sensation of static manga coming to life becomes a special experience for fans.
Original Merchandise Sales
The museum shop sells numerous original merchandise exclusive to Hita. T-shirts, keychains, clear files, postcards—items available only here are popular as commemorative souvenirs from the sacred site pilgrimage.
Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX|New Base Within Sapporo Beer Factory
ANNEX Facility Overview
“Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX,” opened in 2021 within Sapporo Breweries Kyushu Hita Plant, serves as a second exhibition base. The contrast of the “Attack on Titan” world suddenly appearing amid the brewery’s verdant natural surroundings creates a unique impression for visitors.
Basic Information:
- Location: 6979 Takase, Hita City, Oita Prefecture (Sapporo Breweries Kyushu Hita Plant)
- Hours: 10:00~16:00 (Final admission 15:30)
- Closed: Mondays (or next day if Monday is a holiday), year-end and New Year holidays
- Admission: Adults (18+) ¥500 / Children (under 18) Free
- Parking: Free
Unique Displays at ANNEX
ANNEX offers different exhibits from the main building, allowing deeper enjoyment of the “Attack on Titan” world when visiting both. The full-scale model of the Omni-directional Mobility Gear and diorama displays recreating important scenes from the work are particularly impressive.
Characteristic ANNEX Displays:
- Detailed recreation model of the Omni-directional Mobility Gear
- Survey Corps equipment display
- Character panel commemorative photo corners
- Work timeline and worldview explanation panels
- Limited video content screenings
Combining ANNEX Visit with Sapporo Beer Factory Tour
When visiting ANNEX, it’s recommended to combine it with a tour of the Sapporo Breweries Kyushu Hita Plant. After viewing the beer manufacturing process, visitors can enjoy a taste of freshly brewed beer (reservations required). Experiencing both the “Attack on Titan” world and Kyushu’s beer culture simultaneously is a pilgrimage plan unique to Hita.
Economical Sacred Site Pilgrimage with Combined Tickets
For those planning to visit both the main building and ANNEX, discounted combination tickets are available. Using combination tickets allows visitors to experience both facilities at a lower cost than purchasing individual tickets. Tickets are available at each facility’s window.
Sacred Sites Around Hita Station
Attack on Hita Café|A Haven for Fans
“Attack on Hita Café,” located within walking distance of Hita Station, is an “Attack on Titan”-themed café ideal for resting during the sacred pilgrimage. A second floor opened in 2023, making the facility even more complete.
Basic Information:
- Location: 11-13 Motomachi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture
- Hours: 10:00~17:00
- Closed: Wednesdays
The café serves original menu items inspired by the work, including “Wall Interior Curry” imagining the walled world and character-themed drinks. Reproduction original art and life-size character panels are displayed, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the work’s worldview while dining.
The second floor features original illustrations drawn by Isayama, his signature, and rare merchandise displays—must-sees for fans. Limited merchandise is sold, with café-exclusive coasters and stickers popular as souvenirs.
Titan Statues at Hita Station South Plaza
Character statues based on Isayama’s original designs are installed at Hita Station’s south plaza. Multiple statue projects have resulted in statues of main characters including Eren, Mikasa, and Armin being built sequentially.
Each statue is life-size or larger, precisely recreating character-distinctive poses and expressions. Night illumination creates a different atmosphere from daytime viewing. Fans continuously take commemorative photos, with numerous social media posts documenting them.
Inscriptions on statue bases include messages directly written by Isayama and famous lines from the work, creating moving experiences for fans.
Hita Station Tourist Information Center for Information Gathering
The tourist information center in Hita Station provides detailed information about “Attack on Hita.” Distribution of pilgrimage maps, latest facility information, and public transportation schedules enable efficient sacred site touring. Staff respond kindly, making this the recommended first stop for first-time visitors.
Sacred Sites in the Oyama Area
Oyama Dam|The Origin of the Work’s Worldview
Oyama Dam is considered the origin of the “walls” iconic to “Attack on Titan.” At 94 meters high and 370 meters long, the massive dam evokes the imposing walls appearing in the work.
Access Information:
- Location: Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture
- Viewing: Free (unrestricted)
- Parking: Available (free)
From the dam’s observation deck, magnificent scenery encompassing surrounding mountains unfolds, allowing visitors to retrace the landscape Isayama saw during childhood. Fresh greenery season and autumn foliage make photography particularly rewarding, with natural beauty and man-made structures in harmonious balance.
Walking trails surround the reservoir, allowing leisurely strolls while contemplating the work’s worldview. The serene environment provides respite from urban bustle.
Soufuren|Gourmet Spot with Isayama Connections
“Soufuren,” a famous shop for Hita’s specialty iron-plate fried noodles in Oyama Town, is known as a taste Isayama enjoyed since childhood. It’s a must-visit gourmet spot during sacred site pilgrimages.
Basic Information:
- Location: Nishi-Oyama, Oyama Town, Hita City, Oita Prefecture (within Mizube no Sato Oyama roadside station)
- Hours: 11:00~15:00 (closes when sold out)
- Closed: Irregular
Soufuren’s iron-plate fried noodles are prepared boldly on heated iron plates, featuring crispy noodles and sweet-spicy sauce. Hearty portions replenish energy after walking during sightseeing. The shop displays Isayama’s signature and “Attack on Titan” exhibits, with fans gathering to socialize while dining.
Roadside Station Mizube no Sato Oyama
The roadside station housing the “Attack on Titan in HITA Museum” is ideal as a sacred pilgrimage hub. Beyond the museum, fresh farm produce, local specialties, restaurants, and rest areas are well-equipped.
The station’s specialty shop displays local梅干し (preserved plums), yuzu products, and vegetables representing Oyama’s charm. Limited-edition packaged items featuring “Attack on Titan” collaborations also line shelves, making souvenir selection enjoyable.
The facility includes a foot bath for relaxing after sightseeing. Clear streams flow nearby in a naturally rich environment perfect for refreshment.
Access Methods and Efficient Sacred Site Tour Routes
Access via Public Transportation
From Fukuoka:
- JR Hakata Station to Hita Station via JR Kyudai Main Line: approximately 1.5-2 hours
- “Hita Express” highway bus from Fukuoka Bus Terminal to Hita Bus Center: approximately 1.5 hours
From Oita:
- JR Oita Station to Hita Station via JR Kyudai Main Line: approximately 1.5 hours
From Hita Station to Each Spot:
- Attack on Hita Café: approximately 10 minutes on foot
- 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 bus routes serve from Hita Station to museum facilities; taxis provide convenience. Car rentals or bicycle rentals enable greater freedom visiting multiple sites.
Access by Car
From Fukuoka:
- Via Kyushu Expressway “Hita IC” to each spot
- From Hita IC to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX: approximately 10 minutes
- From Hita IC to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum (Main Building): approximately 30 minutes
From Oita:
- Via Oita Expressway “Hita IC”
Car access offers maximum flexibility, enabling efficient visits to multiple sites in one day. Free parking is available at all facilities.
Recommended Pilgrimage Routes
Full Day (Car):
- Morning: Hita Station South Plaza statues (30 minutes)
- Morning: Attack on Hita Café break and merchandise (1 hour)
- Morning: Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX tour (1 hour)
- Lunch: Sapporo Beer Factory or local lunch
- Afternoon: Attack on Titan in HITA Museum (Main Building) tour (1.5 hours)
- Afternoon: Soufuren iron-plate noodles (light meal)
- Afternoon: Oyama Dam tour (1 hour)
Half Day (Public Transportation):
- Arrive at Hita Station → View South Plaza statues
- Attack on Hita Café break and lunch
- Taxi to Attack on Titan in HITA Museum ANNEX tour
- Taxi back to Hita Station for return journey
Overnight stays at Hita hot springs allow leisurely sacred site tours over two days.
Surrounding Attractions and Accommodation
Hita Hot Spring Area
Hita is known for hot springs, enabling sacred pilgrimage combined with bathing. Numerous hot spring inns line the Mikuma River, allowing relaxation amid riverside murmurs.
Hita Hot Spring features slightly alkaline mineral water promoting skin health, ideal for recovering from sightseeing fatigue. Summer visits enable cormorant fishing observation at some inns, experiencing traditional Hita culture.
Mameta Town’s Historic Streetscape
Hita’s Mameta Town preserves Edo-period architecture, designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. Charming rows of white-walled warehouses and old merchant houses reward leisurely exploration.
Mameta Town features traditional craft shops, Japanese sweet stores, and cafés perfect for souvenir shopping. Combining “Attack on Titan” sacred site tours with Hita’s historical culture creates enriching travel.
Hita Gion Festival (July)
Held annually in July, the Hita Gion Festival, with approximately 300 years of history, is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Magnificent festival floats parading through streets are spectacular, with visits this season enabling simultaneous sacred pilgrimage and festival viewing.
Sacred Pilgrimage Necessities and Precautions
Useful Items to Bring
- Camera/smartphone: Commemorative photography essential
- Sacred site pilgrimage map: Obtain at Hita Station tourist information center
- Comfortable walking shoes: Necessary for inter-facility travel and exploration
- Beverages: Critical heat illness prevention, especially summer
- Rain gear: Mountain terrain creates variable weather
- Mobile battery: Photo shooting and information searches deplete batteries quickly
Visiting Precautions
- Verify each facility’s hours and holidays beforehand (especially ANNEX’s Monday closure)
- Winter mountain areas may have frozen roads
- Museum photo guidelines distinguish permitted and restricted areas
- Crowded periods may impose entry limits (especially weekends and holiday periods)
- As residents’ living spaces, observe proper manners during pilgrimages
Latest Information and Events
Hita regularly hosts “Attack on Titan”-related events. Statue dedication ceremonies, limited-duration special exhibits, and collaboration events mean discoveries with each visit.
Latest information updates on “Attack on Titan in HITA” official websites and social media. Pre-visit checking enables enriched pilgrimages. Special projects frequently occur around Isayama’s birthday (August 29) and work commemoration dates.
Summary: Experience the “Attack on Titan” World in Hita City, Oita Prefecture
Hita City holds special significance for “Attack on Titan” fans. As Hajime Isayama’s hometown and the origin of the work’s worldview, this location offers experiences and emotions impossible from manga or anime alone.
The main building and ANNEX museums provide precious artwork viewing, Hita Station surroundings offer character statue and café commemorative photos, Oyama Dam reveals the majestic nature inspiring the work, and local cuisine showcases Hita’s charm—all constitute uniquely Hita pilgrimage experiences.
Accessible by public transportation or car, Hita offers enjoyment whether day-tripping or overnight stays. Embark on a journey to deeper understanding of “Attack on Titan” and touching Isayama’s roots in Hita City. Special memories awaiting fans await in Oita Prefecture’s Hita City.