Updates on the Situation in Oita Prefecture

Beginning on July 7, Oita Prefecture experienced severe flooding and landslides due to unusually heavy rainfall. The damage was particularly devastating in the western portions of the prefecture. Areas that we’ve introduced
in the past like Amagase Onsen and Yunohira Onsen bore the brunt of the carnage and work to restore these
affected locales is currently underway.
For the time being, train service from Hita Station and Mukainoharu Station is on hold due to the damage. Since Yufuin Station lies in the middle of this sector, it is currently not possible to access the popular onsen town by
train from Oita Station at this moment.
While these updates are indeed tragic, we also have some good news to share. JR Kyushu will resume providing train service between Higo-Ozu Station and Aso Station on the Hohi Line from Aug 8, 2020. Although operations were suspended due to the aftereffects of the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquakes, the resumption of service will make it easier to access Kumamoto Prefecture from Oita via train.
Additionally, not all of Oita was afflicted with the heavy rains. These sections of the prefecture are gearing up to be able to again welcome domestic tourists from other parts of Japan. To ensure that this is done safely, we are recommending proper coronavirus prevention measures. Hopefully, this can help Oita capitalize on latent
demand and recover from the recent disaster.