If you're a fan of Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin), there's no more powerful pilgrimage than standing at the base of Oyama Dam in Hita City, Oita Prefecture. This massive concrete dam — towering at 94 meters — is widely believed to have inspired the iconic Walls that protect humanity in the series. And it's located in the very hometown of creator Hajime Isayama.
Why Oyama Dam Is the Ultimate Attack on Titan Pilgrimage
Hajime Isayama grew up in the small Oyama district of Hita City, Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. As a child, he would look up at the towering wall of Oyama Dam — and that image of an overwhelming, inescapable barrier became the seed for the Walls of Attack on Titan.
In 2020, the city installed life-sized bronze statues of young Eren, Mikasa, and Armin at the base of the dam. The three children gaze upward at the massive wall, recreating the moment they first witnessed the Colossal Titan peering over Wall Maria. It's an incredibly emotional scene for fans.
What to See at Oyama Dam
The Bronze Statues
The centerpiece of the pilgrimage is the trio of bronze statues positioned at the downstream side of the dam. Young Eren, Mikasa, and Armin stand looking up at the 94-meter dam wall in terror and awe — exactly mirroring the iconic scene from Episode 1. The statues are free to visit and photograph 24/7.
The Dam Wall Itself
Standing at the base and looking up, you'll understand exactly how Isayama felt as a child. The sheer scale of the concrete wall is overwhelming. At 94 meters tall, it's not far from the 50-meter Wall Maria in the series — and the psychological impact of standing beneath it is something photos can't capture.
Surrounding Oyama Area
The Oyama district itself is a charming rural Japanese village surrounded by mountains. It's the kind of quiet, enclosed community that mirrors the world inside the Walls. Take time to walk around and appreciate the peaceful countryside that shaped one of anime's greatest creators.
Other Attack on Titan Spots in Hita City
Shingeki no Kyojin (Attack on Titan) Museum — Susumu Isayama Gallery
Located in Hita City, this small museum (often called the "Isayama Gallery") features original artwork, manuscripts, and behind-the-scenes materials from the series. It offers insight into Isayama's creative process and his connection to the local landscape.
Attack on Titan Murals & Public Art
Throughout Hita City, you'll find various Attack on Titan murals and themed installations. The city has fully embraced its connection to the franchise, with character art appearing on walls, manhole covers, and public buildings.
JR Hita Station
Even the local train station features Attack on Titan decorations and signage, making it a fitting arrival point for your pilgrimage.
How to Get to Oyama Dam
From Fukuoka (Recommended)
Fukuoka is the most convenient gateway. Take the JR Kyudai Main Line from Hakata Station to Hita Station (about 2 hours). From Hita Station, Oyama Dam is approximately 20 minutes by car. Renting a car in Hita is recommended as public transport to the dam is limited.
From Oita City
Take the JR Kyudai Main Line from Oita Station to Hita Station (about 2 hours). Then drive or take a local bus to the dam area.
By Car
If you're on a Kyushu road trip, Oyama Dam is accessible via the Oita Expressway. The drive from Fukuoka takes about 1.5 hours. There's free parking available near the dam.
Practical Information
- Address: Oyama Dam, Oyama-machi, Hita, Oita Prefecture
- Hours: Open 24/7 (outdoor site)
- Admission: Free
- Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms near the dam) or autumn (foliage in the surrounding mountains)
- Time needed: 1-2 hours for the dam area, full day if combining with Hita City sightseeing
Tips for Your Visit
- Combine with Yufuin: The famous onsen town of Yufuin is only 45 minutes from Hita — perfect for a relaxing soak after your pilgrimage
- Try Hita yakisoba: The local specialty is crispy pan-fried noodles, available at restaurants throughout Hita City
- Visit in the morning: The dam faces east, so morning light creates the most dramatic photos of the statues
- Bring supplies: There are no shops or restaurants at the dam itself. Stock up in Hita City first
- Rent a car: Public transport to the dam is extremely limited. A rental car gives you freedom to explore the entire Hita area
Beyond Oyama Dam: More Anime Pilgrimages Across Japan
Japan is filled with real-life locations that inspired your favorite anime. If you loved visiting Oyama Dam, consider adding these iconic anime pilgrimage destinations to your Japan itinerary:
- Kamakura — The famous railway crossing from Slam Dunk
- Hakone — The mountain resort setting of Neon Genesis Evangelion
- Hida Takayama — The breathtaking countryside that inspired Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)
- Chichibu, Saitama — The emotional setting of Anohana
- Numazu, Shizuoka — Home of Love Live! Sunshine!!
- Oarai, Ibaraki — The tank-filled town of Girls und Panzer
Stay tuned — we'll be publishing detailed guides for each of these anime pilgrimage destinations soon.
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