If you are a fan of the famous manga and anime series “Attack on Titan”, you must visit Hita City in Oita Prefecture. This charming city is not just a quaint Japanese city; 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 sites that bring the world of giants to life.
1. Hita Station: Bronze statue of Levi Ackermann
Our journey began at Hita Station, the hub that sets the tone for any Attack on Titan pilgrimage. As soon as one gets off the train, they will be greeted by a bronze statue of Levi Ackerman, one of the most beloved characters in the series. The statue stands proudly in Station Square, depicting Levi's steely determination and readiness for battle. It's a great photo opportunity and a great way to start your visit. The station itself is a mixture of modernity and tradition, offering a warm welcome to fans and travelers alike.
2. Attack on the Giants Museum in Aoyama
Next, we headed to the Attack on Titan Museum located in Aoyama. This museum is a treasure trove for fans, offering an in-depth look into the world of Attack on Titan. Exhibits include original artwork, storyboards, and detailed explanations of the creative process behind the manga. As we walked through the museum, we felt the passion and dedication that Isayama put into his work. The museum not only provides insight into the series, but also allows fans to appreciate the artistry and storytelling that has captivated millions around the world.
3. Aoyama Dam: Bronze statues and augmented reality experience
A short ride from the museum brought us to Aoyama Dam, a stunning site featuring 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 really elevates this experience is the AR (Augmented Reality) app. Before visiting, be sure to download the app from the AppStore, as it's over 800MB in size, with an additional 160MB of data required upon first launch. Using the app, you can superimpose a massive giant onto the landscape, making it feel like you've entered the world of Attack on Titan. The dam itself is a beautiful sight, and the combination of natural beauty and augmented reality technology creates an unforgettable experience.
4. Attack on Titan Museum Annex: Near the brewery
Our last stop was the Attack on Titan Museum Annex, located near a local brewery. This supplement provides an immersive manga experience, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Isayama's creative mind. The exhibits here include detailed explanations of the 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 for the nuances of the manga. 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.
Heading there
Hita can be reached by train from major cities in Fukuoka Prefecture. From Fukuoka City, you can take the JR Kyodai Main Line directly to Hita Station, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, if you are coming from Oita, the trip will take about the same time. We traveled by car to each destination which is the recommended method of travel.
Final thoughts
Visiting Hita was a wonderful 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 augmented reality experience at Aoyama Dam, each location brought a new perspective to the series. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Titans universe or just curious, Hita delivers an unforgettable adventure that brings manga and anime to life.
