
Map showing location of Nakatsu in Oita Prefecture (as of
2006).
is a
city located on the northern border of
Ōita Prefecture,
Japan, next to
Fukuoka Prefecture.
As of
2003, the city has an estimated
population of 66,755 and the
density of 1,201 persons per
km². The total area is 55.58 km².
The city was founded on
April 20,
1929.
Sightseeing
Nakatsu is a castle town, and the castle can be visited. The modernised interior comprises a museum with samurai armour, old maps and information about
Rangaku (Dutch studies), for which Nakatsu was an important centre in the
Edo era. There are fine views from the top of the castle keep.
Visitors should also not miss the residence of the most celebrated member of the Nakatsu clan —
Fukuzawa Yukichi — and the memorial hall there. It is close to the castle and 15 minutes walk from the station. Entrance 400 yen.
Nakatsu's Mt. Hachimen is also home to the popular music festival, Concert on the Rock. This annual charity event sees over 30 international acts performing over a June weekend for the pleasure of Japan's music lovers. The natural surroundings make it one of the most picturesque rock festivals in the world.
Topography
Nakatsu City is located in the northwest corner of Oita prefecture, Kyushu. To the east of Nakatsu is
Usa City, and to the southwest is
Hita City. Nakatsu touches the border of Fukuoka-ken on its west. To the Northeast is Suohnada Sea.
The city is 491.09 square kilometers. 80% of the city area is mountainous. There is a wide stretch of flat, agricultural land which begins at the mouth of Yamakuni River and extends to Mt. Ehiko.
History
Taisho 14, April: Oe Village is merged with Toyoda Village to become the town of Nakatsu.
April, 1919: Ogusu Village and the Town of Nakatsu join to become Nakatsu City.
August, 1933: Tsurui, Oohata and Zyosui Villages merge with the growing City of Nakatsu.
April, 1951: Miho Village joins Nakatsu City.
October, 1954: Wada Village also joins.
February, 1955: Imazu village becomes part of Nakatsu.
March 25,
2005: Sankō Village and the towns of Honyabakei, Yabakei, Yamakuni all merge with Nakatsu.
Zyosui Kuroda built the original Castle in Nakatsu.
See also
★
James Murdoch who taught briefly in Nakatsu junior high school
External links
★
Nakatsu official website in Japanese
★
Concert on the Rock Official Website