Oita
Kyushu/Okinawa
Hot spring capital of Japan with Beppu's "hells" and Yufuin's tranquil resort village.
Capital
Oita
Best Time to Visit
Year-round for onsen; autumn (October to November) for Beppu's jigoku steam vents with seasonal foliage; winter for outdoor baths in cold air.
Getting There
From Fukuoka, Ltd. Express Sonic (2h to Beppu, ~¥5,000). Fly to Oita Airport (1h from Tokyo) then bus to Beppu or Yufuin.
Top Highlights
Beppu Hell Springs
Eight spectacular boiling hot spring "hells" (jigoku) each with different colors — blood red, cobalt blue, turquoise — none suitable for bathing.
Yufuin Hot Springs
Charming resort town in a volcanic basin, with boutique ryokan, art galleries, and Lake Kinrin steaming in cool mornings.
Takachiho Gorge
Dramatic volcanic gorge carved by the Gokase River, with waterfalls, rowboats, and Shinto mythology connections.
Usuki Stone Buddhas
Japan's finest example of medieval rock-carved Buddhas, with over 60 figures carved into a limestone cliff since the 12th century.
Local Cuisine
Kabosu Citrus
Oita's signature green citrus, essential to local cooking — squeezed over sashimi, fugu, and hot pot. Kabosu and seafood is the defining Oita flavor.
Toriten
Chicken tempura — Oita's beloved bar snack, chicken marinated in soy and ginger, lightly battered and fried, served with ponzu or kabosu.
Beppu Reimen
Cold chewy noodles in spicy broth, a Beppu specialty influenced by Korean naengmyeon — particularly refreshing after hot spring bathing.
Stay Connected in Oita
Yesim eSIMs activate on arrival — no SIM swap needed. Japan data plans from $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better — Beppu or Yufuin for hot springs?+
Beppu is an exciting, slightly chaotic resort town with dramatic jigoku and public baths for all budgets. Yufuin is quieter, more refined, and boutique-oriented. Many visitors do both as they're only 30 minutes apart.
Things to Do in Oita
12 sustainable experiences
Beppu Nature and Hot Spring Nordic Walking Tour with Local Lunch
Experience the serene beauty of Beppu on this private wellness tour designed for cruise passengers and city guests. Begin your adventure with a scenic ropeway ride to Mt. Tsurumi, where stunning views of Beppu Bay await. Enjoy a gentle Nordic walking session at the summit, suitable for all fitness l
From US$129.22
Beppu Kannawa Onsen Area Walking Tour
Step beyond the surface of Beppu and dive into the steamy streets of Kannawa Onsen, one of Japan’s most historic hot spring districts. Accompanied by an English-speaking local guide, you’ll stroll through charming alleys lined with traditional bathhouses, hear stories of how the town was shaped by g
From US$77.53
Beppu: Hot Springs Onsen Private Tour with Local Guide
Begin your tour at the legendary Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour), where you can witness surreal geothermal sights like blood-red hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming geysers. These natural wonders are not for bathing, but are perfect for unforgettable photos and cultural insight. Next, vis
From US$193.83
Authentic Oita Local Food Experience Homestyle Cooking Class
Engage with the culinary traditions of Oita Prefecture in this hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare beloved local dishes. Guided by a seasoned local host and supported by an English assistant, you’ll create regional specialties like Toriten (Chicken Tempura), Dango-jiru (Miso Soup wi
From US$142.14
Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arrangement) Workshop in Beppu
This ikebana workshop offers more than flower arranging. Led by an experienced instructor, it combines storytelling, mindfulness, and sustainability through the use of loss flowers. With its 'kamishibai' (paper story-telling) style introduction, interactive quiz, and hands on creation, participants
From US$38.77
Private Cruise in Beppu Bay Sunrise and Sunset Journey
The best cruise time depends on the season. In spring, summer, and autumn, we especially recommend our sunset cruises, when the calm waters of Beppu Bay are bathed in beautiful golden light. During summer, sunrise comes very early, making sunset cruises a more comfortable and relaxing option for mos
From US$387.66
Oita Go Kart Adventure to Kamado Shrine and Hot Spring Hell
Experience the Thrill of the Ride Reserve Your Adventure Now! Get ready to transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure with your electric Monster Kart rental! Cruise through the streets in a modern samurai costume, explore legendary spots like Kamado Shrine and the steamy realm of Kamado Jig
From US$96.92
Yunosato Onsen and Umi Jigoku Tour from Beppu Port
This private 4-hour tour is designed exclusively for cruise passengers arriving at Beppu Port, offering a compact yet immersive experience of the city’s iconic hot springs and geothermal wonders. Visit Myoban Yunosato, known for its thatched “yunohana” huts and milky white sulfuric waters with ski
From US$226.14
Tea Ceremony in a Century-old Japanese Town House
An English speaking interpreter will take you step by step through the history, etiquette and cultural importance of the Japanese tea ceremony, while you witness a demonstration from a local professional. Following the demonstration, you'll be invited to try making your own cup of 'matcha' tea - whi
From US$45.23
Private Tour Hot Spring Beppu Onsen Blue Hell Custom Tour by Car
Explore Beppu, one of the world’s top hot spring towns, on a completely private tour with a friendly local guide by car. Pickup and drop-off at your cruise port or hotel are included for a safe and stress-free experience. Visit Umi Jigoku and explore historic Kannawa Onsen, filled with steam, hot sp
From US$290.75
Become a Local! A Walking Tour of Arts, Crafts & Onsen Culture
Fancy avoiding crowded touristic hotspots and exploring more 'local' areas you likely wouldn't find in a travel brochure? In this exclusive, small-group walking tour, you'll immerse yourself in history & culture whilst strolling through the streets of downtown* Beppu. Experience the work and daily l
From US$58.15
Beppu Private Tour - Onsen Experience in nature
[Hot Spring Experience in Nature + Jigokumushi Steamed Snacks Experience Plan] Enjoy a hot spring experience immersed in the natural environment of a bamboo grove clearing. After relaxing, enjoy some Jigokumushi steamed eggs and pudding. You can also visit the Yunohana-goya huts, where "Yunohana," a
From US$122.76