If you’re a fan of the wildly popular manga and anime series “Attack on Titan,” then a visit to Hita in Oita Prefecture is a must. This charming city is not just a quaint Japanese town; it has embraced its connection to the series, thanks to Hajime Isayama, the creator of “Attack on Titan,” who hails from here. In this blog post, we’ll take you through our visit to Hita, highlighting four must-see locations that bring the world of Titans to life.
1. Hita Station: Levi Ackerman Bronze Statue
Our journey began at Hita Station, a hub that sets the tone for any “Attack on Titan” pilgrimage. As soon as one stepped off the train, he will be greeted by the bronze statue of Levi Ackerman, one of the series’ most beloved characters. The statue stands proudly in the station plaza, capturing Levi’s steely determination and readiness for battle. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a great way to start your visit. The station itself is a blend of modernity and tradition, offering a warm welcome to fans and travelers alike.
2. Attack on Titan Museum at Oyama
Next, we headed to the Attack on Titan Museum located in Oyama. This museum is a treasure trove for fans, offering a deep dive into the world of “Attack on Titan.” The exhibits include original artwork, storyboards, and detailed explanations of the creative process behind the manga. Walking through the museum, we could feel the passion and dedication that Isayama put into his work. The museum not only provides insights into the series but also allows fans to appreciate the artistry and storytelling that have captivated millions around the world.
3. Oyama Dam: Bronze Statues and AR Experience
A short trip from the museum brought us to the Oyama Dam, a stunning location that features bronze statues of the series’ three main characters: Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert. The statues are impressive, capturing the essence of each character as they stand guard over the dam. But what truly elevates this experience is the AR (Augmented Reality) app. Before visiting, make sure to download the app from the AppStore—it’s over 800 MB, with an additional 160 MB of data required upon first launch. Using the app, you can overlay a colossal Titan onto the landscape, making it feel like you’ve stepped into the world of “Attack on Titan.” The dam itself is a beautiful sight, and the combination of natural beauty and AR technology creates an unforgettable experience.
4. Attack on Titan Museum Annex: Near the Beer Factory
Our final stop was the Attack on Titan Museum Annex, located near a local beer factory. This annex provides an immersive manga experience, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Isayama’s creative mind. The exhibits here include detailed explanations of various drawings and how Isayama feels about his work. It’s a more personal and intimate look at the series, giving fans a greater appreciation of the manga’s nuances. Additionally, the annex offers a wide range of merchandise, from exclusive figurines to apparel and accessories. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Getting There
Hita is accessible by train from major cities in Fukuoka Prefecture. From Fukuoka City, you can take the JR Kyudai Main Line directly to Hita Station, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Oita, the journey is roughly the same duration. We drove a car to each of the destination which is our recommended way of travel.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Hita was a remarkable experience that allowed us to connect with “Attack on Titan” in a unique and immersive way. From the Levi statue at Hita Station to the AR experience at Oyama Dam, every location offered a new perspective on the series. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the world of Titans, Hita provides an unforgettable adventure that brings the manga and anime to life.