Hita, Historical city in Oita Prefecture, Japan
Hita is a city in Oita Prefecture, Japan, set among forested mountains and crossed by several rivers in the northern part of Kyushu. The settlement spreads through valleys where waterways meet, creating a landscape of ridges and narrow plains.
The settlement was once part of Bungo Province and gained new importance during the Edo period when it came under direct control of the shogunate. During this era, the scholarly academy Kangien was founded and educated students from all social backgrounds for over eight decades.
The Kangien school, established in 1805, educated 5000 students over 80 years through a system that emphasized academic achievement rather than social status.
The city can be reached by train from Hakata in around 70 minutes or from Yufuin in roughly an hour, with several connections running daily. Those exploring the area will find workshops and shops displaying local crafts made from cedar wood.
Local artisans work Hita cedar into everyday items such as furniture, traditional wooden sandals, and small containers once used for measuring sake. These woodworks take advantage of the particular qualities of the regional softwood, known for its scent and durability.
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