Oita Travel Guide for Japanese Learners
Japan's hot-spring capital — steaming Beppu and chic Yufuin.
Ōita produces more hot-spring water than anywhere in Japan. Beppu's 'hells' are vivid coloured springs, while Yufuin is a stylish onsen retreat below a twin-peaked mountain.
History & background
Ōita (大分) produces more hot-spring water than any prefecture in Japan. Beppu (別府) grew into a great onsen resort, while the Usuki (臼杵) stone Buddhas were carved into cliffs around the 12th century.
What to see
- Beppu's 'Hells' (jigoku) hot springs
- Yufuin onsen town
- Usuki stone Buddhas
- Mount Yufu
What to eat
Toriten (chicken tempura) and bungo beef.
Getting there & when to go
Getting there: Beppu/Ōita are ~2h from Fukuoka (Hakata) by limited express.
Best time: Any season — onsen are wonderful in cooler months.
When to go — season by season
Onsen are welcome year-round and especially soothing in cool months. Autumn colours Mount Yufu (由布岳) above stylish Yufuin.
A suggested visit
Tour Beppu's vividly coloured 'hells' (for viewing), then soak in a real onsen. Spend a relaxed day in Yufuin (由布院) with its boutiques and mountain backdrop.
The Beppu 'hells' are for viewing, not bathing — separate onsen are for soaking.
Some links above are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only list services we'd use ourselves.