Oita history

The city of Oita, known in ancient times as Funai, possesses a rich and centuries-old history closely linked to its strategic position on the island of Kyushu. Its development was defined by maritime trade and the influence of powerful feudal clans.

Foundation and First Mentions

Although settlements on the site of modern Oita have existed since ancient times, the city acquired special significance during the Sengoku period ('The Age of Warring States', 15th-16th centuries). During this time, it became the capital of the domains of the powerful Otomo clan and bore the name Funai. A key figure in the city's history is the daimyo (feudal lord) Otomo Sorin, who in the 16th century transformed Funai into a thriving centre of power and culture.

Key Factors of Development

The emergence of Oita as an important centre was driven by several factors:

• Geographical Location: Situated in a convenient bay on the northeast of Kyushu island, Funai was a natural port for conducting maritime trade.
• Trade and Politics: Under the rule of Otomo Sorin, the city became one of the main ports of Japan for trade with Portugal and Ming Dynasty China. This brought immense wealth to the region and contributed to its rapid growth.
• Openness to Western Influence: Otomo Sorin was actively interested in Western culture and even embraced Christianity. He patronised missionaries and merchants from Europe, which made Funai a unique city for that era.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the 16th century, Funai became the centre of the so-called 'Nanban culture' (literally 'Southern Barbarians'), which arose as a result of contacts with Europeans. This period was marked not only by economic rise but also by cultural exchange. It was here that the first European-style hospital in Japan was opened, and the first choir was established. The city became a place where Western technologies, medicine, and art first penetrated Japanese society, leaving a deep imprint on its history.

Key Milestones in the History of Oita

The history of Oita, known in the past as Funai, is a vivid journey from a medieval centre of international trade to a modern industrial city. Below are the main events that shaped the appearance of Oita.

• Kamakura Period (1185–1333): Power in the Bungo province, where the city was located, passes to the powerful Otomo clan, which made Funai its main citadel.
• 1550: Otomo Yoshishige (later known as Sorin) becomes the head of the clan, marking the beginning of the city's 'golden age' as a centre of trade and culture.
• Mid-16th Century: Funai (Oita) flourishes as one of Japan's main ports, conducting active trade with Portugal and Ming Dynasty China.
• ~1557: Otomo Sorin, patronising contacts with the West, facilitates the opening of the first European-style hospital in Japan in the city.
• 1578: Daimyo Otomo Sorin converts to Christianity, and Funai becomes one of the centres for the spread of European culture in the country.
• 1586: As a result of internecine wars, the Otomo clan suffers defeat by the Shimazu clan, leading to a temporary decline of the city.
• 1599: Construction of Funai Castle is completed, which becomes the administrative and military centre of the region for many centuries.
• Edo Period (1603–1868): After the introduction of Japan's isolation policy, the city loses its significance as an international port and develops as a quiet castle town.
• 1871: During the Meiji Restoration and the abolition of the feudal system, Oita becomes the administrative centre of the prefecture of the same name.
• April 1, 1911: The settlement is officially granted the status of Oita City.
• 1945: The city suffers significant destruction as a result of bombing raids during World War II.
• 1964: Oita receives the status of a 'New Industrial City', which kickstarts its rapid economic growth and the development of heavy industry.
• 1997: The city is granted the status of a 'Core City' of Japan, which expands its administrative autonomy.
• 2005: The territory of Oita City expands significantly due to the merger with the neighbouring settlements of Saganoseki and Notsuharu.

Key Stages of Oita's Development

The history of Oita City is a series of transformations that turned it from a medieval port into a modern industrial and administrative centre. The key milestones reflect the economic, cultural, and urban planning changes that formed the city's current appearance.

• 16th Century: The 'Golden Age' of International Trade. Under the governance of daimyo Otomo Sorin, the city, then named Funai, became one of the main centres of trade with Portugal and China. This led to economic prosperity and made it a gateway for Western culture, known as 'Nanban'. During this period, the first European-style hospital in Japan appeared here.
• Edo Period (1603–1868): Transformation into a Castle Town. With the introduction of the country's isolation policy, Oita lost its status as an international port. The city was rebuilt around Funai Castle, turning into a quiet administrative centre of a feudal domain, which radically changed its economic and social structure.
• 1871: Becoming a Prefectural Capital. During the Meiji Restoration, which abolished the feudal system, Oita was appointed the administrative centre of the prefecture of the same name. This consolidated its status as a key city in the region.
• 1911–1945: Formal Status and Post-War Recovery. In 1911, the settlement officially received city status. However, during World War II, Oita was subjected to significant destruction, which required large-scale post-war reconstruction and replanning.
• 1964: 'New Industrial City'. This status became a turning point in the modern history of Oita. It gave a powerful impetus to the development of heavy industry, including oil refining, metallurgy, and chemical production. This completely transformed the city's economy, making it one of the industrial leaders on the island of Kyushu.
• 1997: Granting of 'Core City' Status. Receiving this status provided Oita with greater administrative autonomy from the prefectural government. This allowed the city to independently manage many aspects of urban development, from education to social welfare.
• 2005: Expansion of City Boundaries. The merger with neighbouring settlements Saganoseki and Notsuharu significantly increased Oita's territory and population. This move influenced urban planning and infrastructure development in the annexed territories.

The architectural appearance of Oita is a visual history of the city, reflecting both its rich past and modern development. Significant destruction during World War II led to the prevalence of modern buildings in the city today; however, preserved historical fragments and the works of prominent architects create a unique urban landscape.

Historical Heritage and Post-War Revival

Pre-war architecture in Oita was centred around Funai Castle, which remains an important historical symbol today, although much of it was lost. One of the most iconic buildings to survive the war is the Oita Bank Akarenga-kan (Red Brick Building). Built in 1913 based on a design by the famous architect Kingo Tatsuno, the creator of Tokyo Station, it represents a striking example of the Western style of the Meiji era with red brick and granite elements. Despite the interior premises burning down during the 1945 bombings, the sturdy outer walls stood firm, and the building became a symbol of the city's post-war recovery.

The Era of Modernism and Modernity

Post-war reconstruction and the granting of 'New Industrial City' status in the 1960s opened a new page in Oita's urban planning. This period was marked by active construction and the emergence of modernist architecture. A key role in this was played by the world-renowned architect Arata Isozaki, a native of Oita. His early works, such as the former Prefectural Library (1966), now known as Art Plaza, are vivid examples of Japanese modernism. Isozaki believed that urban planning should be dynamic, and his theory of 'growing architecture' was reflected in this raw concrete building.

The modern architectural look of Oita is complemented by iconic landmarks such as:

• Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM): Opened in 2015, this building, designed by architect Shigeru Ban, is known for its innovative design using local materials, including timber. Its façade is decorated with a pattern resembling traditional bamboo weaving.
• Oita Bank Dome: Built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup based on a design by architect Kisho Kurokawa, this stadium with a retractable roof is a marvel of engineering and an important sports facility.
• Oita City Station: A modern multifunctional complex opened in 2015, which combines a transport hub, shopping areas, and cultural spaces, becoming the new centre of city life.

Today, Oita represents a city where historical relics harmoniously coexist with ambitious projects by modern Japanese and world architects, making it an interesting destination for connoisseurs of architecture.

The city of Oita and its prefecture have been the birthplace of many prominent individuals who left a noticeable mark on the history and culture of Japan. Among them are daimyo, reformers, politicians, diplomats, and figures of art.

Otomo Sorin (1530–1587)

Daimyo (feudal lord). A key figure in the history of Oita (then the city of Funai) during the Sengoku period. Otomo Sorin turned the city into a prosperous centre of international trade by establishing contacts with Portuguese merchants and Jesuit missionaries. He facilitated the spread of Western knowledge and technology, founding the first European-style hospital in Japan.

Fukuzawa Yukichi (1835–1901)

Educator, philosopher, and founder of Keio University. Although born in Osaka, his family hailed from the Nakatsu clan in Oita Prefecture, where he grew up. Fukuzawa is considered one of the fathers of modern Japan. His writings and ideas on modernisation, education, and social reform had a tremendous influence on the country during the Meiji era.

Murayama Tomiichi (born 1924)

Politician, 81st Prime Minister of Japan. A native of Oita City, Murayama led the country's government from 1994 to 1996. He went down in history thanks to his official statement in 1995, in which he offered an apology for Japan's actions during World War II, which became an important step in post-war diplomacy.

Shigemitsu Mamoru (1887–1957)

Diplomat and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Born in the territory of modern Oita Prefecture. Shigemitsu played a central role in the conclusion of World War II by signing the Instrument of Surrender on behalf of the Japanese government aboard the battleship USS Missouri on September 2, 1945. Subsequently, he became Japan's first representative to the UN.

Anami Korechika (1887–1945)

General and Minister of the Army. A native of Oita Prefecture, Anami was the Minister of the Army in the final months of World War II. He was a key figure in the government during discussions on the terms of Japan's surrender. Despite being an opponent of unconditional surrender, he submitted to the Emperor's decision and played a role in preventing a military coup.

Sashihara Rino (born 1992)

Singer, actress, and producer. A native of Oita City, Sashihara is one of the most popular and influential figures in modern Japanese pop culture. She gained widespread fame as a member of the idol groups AKB48 and HKT48, and after ending her singing career, became a successful TV presenter and producer.