What to know
Usuki (臼杵) is a former castle town on the east coast of Oita Prefecture in Kyushu. It is famous for its many stone Buddhas carved into cliff walls, which are designated national treasures. In Japan, Buddha statues are typically made of wood or metal, making stone carvings rare.
Usuki's city center lies about five kilometers from the stone Buddhas and retains a charming old castle town atmosphere. The former samurai district features stone-paved alleys lined with traditional buildings, some of which are open to tourists.
