Taketa, Oka Castle Ruins and Kuuju Flower Park - Homeland of "Ruin Castle Moon" and Alpine Flower Fields

A one-day course through Taketa City in Oita Prefecture and the Kuuju Highlands, the birthplace of the famous composition "Ruin Castle Moon." Start your morning at Oka Castle Ruins (岡城跡), towering on sheer cliffs. Standing atop the moss-covered stone walls offers an expansive panorama overlooking the Kuuju mountain range. In the castle town, visit the residence where composer Taki Rentaro spent his youth, then enjoy a break at Tajimaya Old Shop (但馬屋老舗), Oita's oldest confectionery, for signature sweets and matcha. In the afternoon, ascend to the Kuuju Highlands and stroll through Kuuju Flower Park (くじゅう花公園), where seasonal flowers bloom against the backdrop of the Kuuju mountain range. Finish at Gandhi Farm (ガンジーファーム) with a rich golden milk soft-serve from the rare Gandhi cattle. This ambitious journey lets you savor two spectacular views—historic stone walls and alpine flower fields—in a single, seamless experience.