Matsuyama is a city located on the island of Shikoku, and is known for its historic castle, hot springs, and literary history.
Oita is a city located on the island of Kyushu, and is known for its hot springs, cuisine, and beautiful coastal scenery.
The first novel ever written, The Tale of Genji, was written in Japan in the 11th century by a noblewoman named Murasaki Shikibu.