Page 134 - homestyle New Zealand (February - March 2020)

LIVING —— Design destination

OTHER HIDDEN

GEMS IN OITA

Otto e Sette, Beppu: The on-site
restaurant at the aforementioned
ryokan Yanagiya offers a unique
twist on Italian cuisine using all
local ingredients.
Hasshin Zushi, Beppu: The type
of food experience I’ve had on
my bucket list since watching
Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Simple
yet exquisite nigiri.

Jigoku Mushi Kobo, Beppu:
Grab a ticket from the vending
machine, pick up your ready-to-
steam ingredients and prepare
your own meal in one of the
outdoor ovens.

Spica, Beppu: A unique design
store/gallery where a husband-
and-wife duo curate a thoughtful
edit of objects, art and fashion.

Sanshoro, Yufuin: A must for
its lunchbox meals so delightfully
presented, they’re a feast for the
eyes as well.
Sansou Murata, Yufuin: The best
of East and West combine at this
high-end ryokan. The interior is
super-cool, so even if you’re not
staying the night, it’s well worth
visiting for a drink in the bar.
Tamanoyu, Yufuin: This ryokan
once provided lodging for zen
Buddhist monks, and now you
can enjoy the serenity in rooms
dotted around a woodland garden.

Mount Yufu, Yufuin: Follow the
lead of local hikers and make the
four-hour ascent to the peak.
Suzunari Coffee, Usuki: If you’re
after a real coffee fix, this café
roasts their own beans and
serves up a good brew.
Kitsuki Castle Town: Check out ABOVE Two more creative entrepreneurs I encountered on my trip were the owners of Taketa Hostel Cue,
Sakura (left) and Takao Horiba, who’ve also bucked the trend of urban migration to establish a more relaxed
the old samurai houses, particularly life for themselves in Oita. They took possession of a rundown building and renovated it using reclaimed materials
Ohara residence right beside the and vintage finds to create an understated backpacker hostel. The upstairs sleeping quarters accommodate
Suya no Saka cobblestoned slope. 15 people in double, twin and bunk rooms, and the couple have a wealth of travel tips to share with their guests.

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