Mystical Kunisaki: A Journey Back in Time

Kunisaki lies in the northeast of Oita Prefecture. It was an important stopping point on ancient shipping routes. After Buddhism was imported from the Asian mainland, it was fused with indigenous animistic beliefs, giving rise to a distinctive culture that can still be found here in this mountainous peninsula. Since ancient times, the Kunisaki Peninsula in Kyushu has been a center of religious worship. For centuries, the local people here have carved statues out of the rock and stone as an expression of their Buddhist faith. This area is not so well known, but it's starting to become popular among trekkers as a peaceful destination with a special mystical flavor. For over 1,300 years, a colorful festival has been held in Kunisaki to celebrate the arrival of spring. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Haruka sets out to explore the ancient Buddhist heritage found in these mountains. Traveler: Haruka Orth