Here's a candid take on another spot we had to skip:

Fuki-ji Odo is one of those places that makes you realize just how much history you're missing in Oita. We're talking about the oldest wooden building in ALL of Kyushu - that alone is pretty mind-blowing. Built way back in the 700s, this place has been sitting there quietly in its woodland setting, outlasting empires and earthquakes.

The Amidado hall sounds particularly special, housing this Important Cultural Property Buddha statue. And from what we've heard, being the oldest wooden structure in Kyushu hasn't gone to its head - it's still got this peaceful, zen vibe going on rather than feeling like a tourist trap.

For anyone heading to Oita who has better time management than we did: this seems like one of those places where you can really feel the weight of history. Sure, there are older temples in Japan, but being Kyushu's oldest wooden structure gives it a special kind of significance. Let us know if you make it - we'd love to hear if it's as serene as it sounds!