Oita

Oita sits on Japan's Kyushu island, where you can soak in the milky-blue waters of Beppu's Hyotan onsen or watch steam rise from the crimson pools of the "Hells." Walk through Yufuin's streets with views of Mount Yufu, visit the wild macaques on Takasaki Mountain, or explore the limestone cliffs of Yabakei Gorge. The region produces kabosu citrus and spicy yuzu-kosho paste, while local artisans continue centuries-old practices of bamboo weaving and Onta pottery making.

Getting to Oita

You can reach Oita through daily flights from Tokyo (90 minutes), Osaka (60 minutes), and Nagoya. From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Kokura Station, then switch to the JR Sonic Limited Express to Oita Station - the journey takes about 6.5 hours. Airport Express Airliner buses connect Oita Airport to the city center, Beppu, and other major destinations in the region.

Hot Springs of Beppu

Beppu contains eight major geothermal areas with more than 150 public bathing facilities. At Hyotan onsen, you can try different bath types including mud baths and steam rooms. The "Hells of Beppu" display pools in various colors - from cobalt blue to bright red - where you can watch the geothermal activity. Many locals cook their food using the natural steam vents, including eggs and vegetables in the hot spring waters.

Local Food and Drink

Kabosu citrus grows throughout the prefecture, adding a tart flavor to grilled fish and hot pot dishes. Local cooks make yuzu-kosho by mixing citrus peels with chili peppers, creating a distinctive condiment. Distillers produce shochu mainly from barley, sometimes adding local plants for unique flavors. Fresh seafood from both the Seto Inland Sea and Pacific Ocean appears in many local dishes.

Traditional Crafts

Beppu's madake bamboo grows straight and strong, making it perfect for basketry. You can watch artisans split and weave bamboo into baskets and decorative items in workshops throughout the city. In the mountain villages, Onta potters continue using foot-powered clay hammers and traditional kilns since the 1700s to create their distinctive ceramics.

Seasonal Activities

Cherry trees bloom along Beppu's streets in spring, while purple and yellow flowers carpet Kuju Flower Park. Summer brings swimmers to the clear waters of Himeshima Beach and cave explorers to the limestone formations of Inazumi Caves. In fall, red maple leaves fill the streets of Usuki, Taketa, and Hita during their bamboo lantern festivals. Winter temperatures stay mild, making it an excellent time to visit Mt. Tsurumi's observation deck or spend extra time in Yufuin's outdoor baths.