Kunisaki Peninsula sits to the north of Beppu, dominated by Mount Futago and most famous for its many archaic, rustic and lost temples. The local faith system of ‘Rokugo Manzan’ blends elements of Buddhism, Shinto, folk and mountain worship as reflected in its many temples, shrines and stone statues dotted throughout the forested valleys on the flanks of the mountain. The peninsula is also home to Kitsuki, one of Kyushu’s best-preserved and photogenic samurai districts. Most accommodation in the area is located near to the coast, around the base of the mountain, in the form of small, family-run guesthouses. A beautiful and engaging area to visit, exploring and staying in Kunisaki is best-suited to travellers driving themselves.