Things To Do
in Beppu
Beppu is a coastal city located in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan. Known for its abundant hot springs, Beppu is a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. The city is home to various types of hot springs, including mud baths and sand baths, offering unique and therapeutic experiences.
In addition to its hot spring attractions, Beppu also boasts scenic landscapes, traditional Japanese architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Beppu Onsen. Enjoy a hot spring bath and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Have lunch at a local ramen shop, then head to the Beppu Rakutenchi Amusement Park for some fun rides. Don't miss the stunning views of Beppu Bay from the park.
Wrap up your day with a kaiseki dinner, showcasing seasonal ingredients in a multi-course meal. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the night lights.
Visit the Oita Prefectural Art Museum to enjoy some local and international artworks. The architecture itself is a sight to behold.
Explore the Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center to learn about local crafts. Try your hand at making a bamboo item to take home as a souvenir.
Attend a traditional Japanese performance, such as a tea ceremony or a kabuki show. Enjoy a relaxing evening at an izakaya, sampling local drinks and tapas.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in hot springs (onsen), offering relaxation and wellness benefits.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline.
- Cultural attractions, such as traditional Japanese architecture and festivals.
- Variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak seasons.
- Limited English-speaking options may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
- Some hot spring facilities may have strict etiquette rules.
- Public transportation can be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- High accommodation and dining prices in tourist areas.
Best Activities in Beppu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience traditional Japanese hot spring baths in Beppu, known for its variety of hot spring facilities.
Explore various natural hot springs and geothermal phenomena at the Eight Hells of Beppu, a unique and picturesque attraction.
Visit the observation deck of Beppu Global Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding natural landscapes.
Relax and rejuvenate at the Beppu Beach Sand Bath, where visitors can enjoy the unique experience of being buried in naturally-warm sand.
Tours
Uncover the best of Beppu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Beppu
Visit one of these nice places.
An observation tower offering panoramic views of Beppu and the surrounding area, especially beautiful at night.
Take a cable car ride for stunning aerial views of Beppu and Beppu Bay, especially picturesque during the cherry blossom season.
An amusement park with a Ferris wheel offering great views of the city and the nearby ocean.
Food in Beppu
Beppu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Jigoku Mushi, or Hell Steamed cuisine, is a unique cooking style in Beppu where ingredients are steamed using the natural geothermal heat from the hot springs. Must-try dishes include Jigoku Mushi-steamed vegetables, seafood, and onsen tamago (hot spring eggs). You can experience this at various hot spring resorts and restaurants around Beppu.
Must-Try!
Beppu Reimen is a popular cold noodle dish that is perfect for the city's warm climate. It features chewy noodles served in a refreshing and tangy cold soup, often topped with cucumber, kimchi, and hard-boiled egg. You can find this dish at local noodle shops and restaurants.
Takana Meshi is a traditional rice dish flavored with pickled Takana greens, known for its distinct and savory taste. It's a staple in Beppu and can be enjoyed at local eateries and traditional Japanese restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beppu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Beppu Beach Sand Bath Market offers a variety of local street food delicacies along Beppu's scenic coastline. Visitors can enjoy freshly prepared seafood, takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), and other regional specialties.
Kaimon Ichiba Market is a bustling marketplace where you can savor an array of fresh seafood, local fruits, and snacks. It's a great place to experience Beppu's food culture and sample street food such as sashimi, tempura, and grilled fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Beppu, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a home or certain traditional establishments in Beppu as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
When visiting onsen (hot springs), it's important to follow the guidelines such as rinsing off before entering the bath, keeping towels out of the water, and refraining from loud behavior to respect others' relaxation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beppu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Beppu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Beppu, Japan. In fact, it is considered rude to tip in most situations. Good service is expected and appreciated, but tipping is not expected or required.
In Beppu, Japan, payment is predominantly made using cash. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger hotels and restaurants, but it's still advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The spring season in Beppu, Japan is a popular time to visit due to the cherry blossoms in bloom and pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy the Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and various spring festivals.
Summer in Beppu is hot and humid, but it's a great time to enjoy the city's beaches and outdoor activities. Beppu hosts the Umi Jigoku Matsuri (Sea Hell Festival) with fireworks and traditional performances.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage in Beppu. It's an ideal time for onsen (hot spring) hopping and exploring the scenic landscapes as the leaves change color.
Winter is the perfect time to experience Beppu's hot springs, especially when the weather is cold. The city's onsens are especially inviting during this time, and visitors can also enjoy winter illuminations and seasonal cuisine.
Beppu at Night
Hiking in Beppu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent peak near Beppu, offering stunning panoramic views and well-marked hiking trails.
Located near Beppu, these trails offer a serene environment with beautiful landscapes and views of Mount Yufu.
A family-friendly park with several hiking routes, ideal for enjoying nature and outdoor activities.
A moderate hike that provides beautiful views of Beppu and the surrounding areas, with natural hot springs at the base.
Offers scenic hiking trails along the gorge, popular for its stunning autumn foliage and river views.
Aiports
How to reach Beppu by plane.
Located approximately 130 kilometers west of Beppu, Fukuoka Airport is the nearest international airport, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated around 160 kilometers southwest of Beppu, Kumamoto Airport provides both domestic and international flights, and is a key airport for travelers heading to Kyushu.
About 200 kilometers to the southwest of Beppu, Nagasaki Airport offers international connections and is well-known for its beautiful coastal views.
Located about 40 kilometers from Beppu, Oita Airport primarily handles domestic flights, but also offers some international services.
Approximately 100 kilometers north of Beppu, Kitakyushu Airport serves as a gateway to various international destinations, with a focus on Asian routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising a large percentage of the population in Beppu.
A significant minority group with historical ties to Japan and present in Beppu.
An active community contributing to the cultural diversity of Beppu.
Includes smaller populations from various other Asian countries.
A small community of Westerners, often involved in business or teaching.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a highly popular sport in Beppu, with local schools and clubs participating in various competitions. The city's passion for the sport is reflected in its fan base and local teams.
Soccer, or football, is widely played in Beppu, with numerous youth leagues and adult clubs. The city often hosts local tournaments and has a dedicated following.
Due to its geographical location with access to natural hot springs and beaches, swimming is a favorite recreational activity and competitive sport among residents.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Beppu, with schools and community teams participating in regional leagues and events.
As a traditional martial art, Karate is practiced by many in Beppu. Various dojos offer classes for different age groups and skill levels, contributing to the sport's strong local presence.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beppu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Beppu is known for its seafood, many restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for traditional Japanese eateries that serve vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and fresh salads. Additionally, international cuisines like Italian and Indian can often accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets.
Travelers with gluten intolerances will find various restaurants in Beppu that offer gluten-free alternatives. Rice-based dishes, sashimi, and grilled meats can be good choices, and communication with the staff about dietary needs is essential for a seamless dining experience.