Hita, Oita: Exploring the Birthplace of the Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin) – Part 3
Beyond the Walls: Your Guide to Visiting Hita
Getting to Hita City
Hita City is a peaceful inland town in western Oita Prefecture, surrounded by mountains and rivers. Though it feels like a quiet retreat, it’s conveniently located between the major cities of Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Oita, making it easily accessible.
I began my journey from Fukuoka, as it was the most convenient departure point. There are two main options to reach Hita:
By Limited Express Yufu
From Fukuoka Airport, take a train to Hakata Station, then transfer to the Limited Express Yufu bound for Hita Station. This bold red train, operated by JR Kyushu, has large windows perfect for enjoying the scenic ride. Its retro-modern interior and route through quiet towns and lush green valleys offer a relaxing glimpse into Kyushu’s rural charm. The ride takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Limited Express Yufuin no Mori, a special D&S (Design & Story) train that offers an elegant travel experience. With its luxurious wooden interior and panoramic views, this train makes you feel as if you're gliding through the forest—an ideal way to enjoy a scenic journey to Hita.
By Highway Bus
Alternatively, you can take a highway bus directly from Fukuoka Airport to the Hita Bus Terminal. This route also connects with Fukuoka hubs like Tenjin and Hakata, making it a convenient option if you're exploring the city before heading to Hita. Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes.
What to Eat
Hita isn’t just about anime and history—it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers! From comforting local favorites to fun Attack on Titan-themed meals, there’s something here to satisfy every appetite. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full course, Hita's food scene is worth exploring.
Hita Yakisoba
This regional specialty is a must-try. Chewy noodles are grilled on a hot iron plate until crisp, using raw noodles instead of pre-steamed ones—hence the emphasis on yaki (grilled). One of the most well-known shops is Soufuren (想夫恋), which has five locations in the city, and at the largest flagship store, the dish is served sizzling on a hot iron plate.
Fun fact: Attack on Titan creator Hajime Isayama once worked part-time at Soufuren’s Oyama branch, and his handwritten message board is on display. While Soufuren has branches in other parts of Japan, only the flagship store in Hita City serves the yakisoba on an iron plate. It's a flavorful local dish and a fun way to connect with the artist's roots.
Address 3754 Oyama-machi Nishioyama, Hita City, Oita Prefecture 877-0201
Official website https://sofuren.com/
Shingeki Gozen
Fans will love this Attack on Titan-themed set meal at Washoku Kobo Shin, located near the historic Mameda-machi district. Priced at 3,500 yen, this beautifully arranged meal features roast beef made from Oita’s own Bungo beef, slow-cooked over four hours and marinated in a special sauce. When you open the lid, a burst of smoke rises—a nod to the Colossal Titan's dramatic entrance! Each tray includes lovingly crafted side dishes and even character illustrations printed on edible sheets.
The set comes with a themed placemat inspired by manga scenes, turning your meal into a mini storytelling experience.
The interior, set in a cozy traditional Japanese house, features walls adorned with framed autographs and décor that reflect its collaboration with the series. Advance reservations by phone are required, and quantities are limited—so plan ahead!
Address 4-19 Marunouchi-machi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture 877-0007
Official website https://www.wasyokukoubou-shin.com/
Attack on Titan in HITA Café
Just a 3-minute walk from Hita Station, the newly relocated Attack on Titan in HITA Café is the perfect stop for fans. The café features limited-edition drinks and ice cream served in collectible cup sleeves themed after popular characters.
The café space includes exclusive photo spots and a merchandise corner packed with goods only available in Hita. There’s also an AR experience corner where you can interact with characters using your smartphone, adding a fun digital twist to your visit.
Note that the café only accepts credit cards or electronic payments—no cash. With its stylish interior and immersive touches, it offers an experience unlike that of a typical café.
Address 1F, 1-16 Chuomachi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture 877-0016
Official website https://shingeki-hita.com/spot/021.html
Where to Shop
Farmer’s Market (Mizube no Sato Oyama Rest Area)
This local market surprised me with its mix of fresh produce and exclusive Attack on Titan merchandise such as a limited edition ramune (Japanese soda). You’ll find snacks, handmade crafts, and souvenirs—all in one place. The market also offers a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, including Hita’s famous watermelons, pears, plums, grapes, chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, and seasonal greens.
One of the highlights here is the multi-award-winning plum wine, made with freshly picked local plums that are soaked the same day and aged for long periods. It's highly praised both in Japan and internationally, having won gold medals at competitions like the National Umeshu Contest and the World Liqueur Awards. For those who can't or don’t drink alcohol, they also sell non-alcoholic options like ripe plum juice and plum-based amazake.
Other specialties include handmade umeboshi (pickled plums), regional snacks like plum kombucha and plum-flavored sweets, and local deli items like bento meals, mochi, and even famous local dishes like stewed chicken feet (momiji).
Processed goods such as soy sauce, miso, yuzu pepper, dressings, and dried foods are also widely available, along with unique items developed in partnership with local farmers. Be sure to check out the refrigerated section too—it features locally made ham, sausage, and even frozen wild game meat.
Address 4106 Oyama-machi, Nishioyama, Hita City, Oita Prefecture 877-0201
Official website https://www.umehibiki.jp/mizubenosato/farmersmarket/
Gelateria Lab 3680 Okuhita
I had some of the best gelato here, made using “imperfect” fruits from the region that would otherwise go to waste. It’s creamy, flavorful, and environmentally friendly too.
This gelato shop is produced by renowned chef Salvatore Cuomo. As part of his "SDGs Gelato" initiative, the shop uses fruits from Kyushu that couldn’t be shipped due to cosmetic imperfections or overripeness. By turning these high-quality ingredients into delicious gelato, the shop helps reduce food waste and supports a more sustainable environment.
Address 4106 Nishioyama, Oyama-machi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture, 877-0201
Official website https://www.umehibiki.jp/mizubenosato/gelaterialab3680/
Where to Stay
Hotel Socia
Just a short walk from Hita Station, this hotel offers exclusive Attack on Titan-themed rooms. From wall art to bed covers, every detail is filled with references to the manga. It’s a great way to end your AOT journey in Hita.
Guests who stay in collaboration rooms receive exclusive Attack on Titan x Hotel Socia merchandise sets. As of September 2023, a new lineup of limited-edition goods is available, including items like acrylic stands, pass cases, and clear file. Guests can also choose the previous bonus set, which s includes character postcards and small accessories.
In the hotel lobby, there’s also a fun Attack on Titan-themed corner and photo spot. Even better, guests can enjoy a free cosplay experience—just slip on a Survey Corps uniform and snap a memorable photo as if you’re part of the squad.
Address 17-3 Motomachi, Hita City, Oita Prefecture 877-0013
Official website https://www.hotel-socia.co.jp/
With its delicious local cuisine, unique shops, and easy access from Fukuoka, Hita City offers more than just a place connected to Attack on Titan—it’s a town full of history, warmth, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're here for the Titans or the traditional charm, every moment in Hita City is worth the journey.