Bungo-takada is a small city with less than 30,000 people, located on the northwestern part of the Kunisaki peninsula. To the west is Usa city, and to the south is Kitsuki city. Receiving the ''Cool Japan" award in 2015 and and has been listed as the best place to live in the Japanese countryside by Rocket News, Bungo-takada is full of hidden gems.
Bungo-takada is well known for Showa Town (Showa no machi) a preserved shopping areas that opens a window into time and what life was like in small towns during the 1930's. As well as it's natural beauty and Rokugo Manzan form of buddhism. As well as Fuki Temple (Fuki-ji) - the oldest wooden structure in Kyushu and a Japanese Natural Treasure.
JET LIFE IN BUNGO-TAKADA
There are currently 2 JET's living in Bungo-takada, 1 based at the Board of Education and 1 prefectural JET. The city JET teaches at 18 schools including 2 kindergartens, 10 elementary schools and 5 junior high schools as well as one academy (gakuen). Meanwhile the prefectural JET has one main base school and a second visiting school.
Bungo-takada city currently offers some subsidisation towards housing however there is not available for the prefectural JET.
Transport
It is essential for the Bungo-takada city JET to have a car due to the travel requirements of their job. While it is possible for the prefectural JET to get by without a car, having a car is extremely convenient and opens up a range of options so it is still highly recommended.
Eating, Shopping and Entertainment
Max Value Mega Store The Max Value Mega Store area is one of two main shopping store areas in Bungo-takada. The complex itself includes a game store, 2 restaurants, 2 phone providers, a 100 Yen store, a shoe shop and a home improvement store. Additionally a clothing store and Cosmos are located across the road. The Max Value Store itself also stocks some foreign foods.
Tokiwa Shopping Centre The other main shopping area in Bungo-takada is Tokiwa. Located in a two story building, with some small shops and a food centre on the first floor, with a 100 yen store and a clothes store on the second floor.
Little Shops Bungo-takada is also home to a host of small 'hole in the wall' shops that you can visit. From 12 different soba shops, to a store selling home-made ice-cream.