Things To Do
in Beppu
Beppu is a picturesque city located in Oita Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its abundant hot springs and unique geothermal activity. It is often referred to as the 'Onsen Capital of Japan' due to the multitude of onsens (hot springs) available for relaxation and rejuvenation. The city is also home to the famous Hells of Beppu, a collection of hot spring attractions that are often more visually stunning than they are suitable for bathing.
With a vibrant local culture, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Beppu offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Beppu Onsen district, where you can soak in one of the many public baths, such as the iconic Takegawara Onsen.
After lunch, explore the Hells of Beppu, including the famous Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) with its vibrant blue waters and the blood-red waters of Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell).
Wind down with a kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, enjoying a multi-course meal featuring seasonal ingredients.
Begin your day with a visit to the Beppu Park, where you can stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy the scenic views.
Visit the Beppu Art Museum to appreciate local artworks, followed by a traditional tea ceremony experience.
Explore Beppu's vibrant nightlife by visiting local izakayas for drinks and traditional small plates.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $15 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $8 |
| 🍵Matcha tea | $4 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $100 |
| 🚍Bus ticket | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundance of relaxing onsens and hot springs.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine and seafood specialties.
- Limited English signage may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
- Public transport may be less frequent during off-peak hours.
- Summer heat and humidity may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おいしい" - Delicious
- "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "お元気ですか" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Beppu
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning blue hot spring is perfect for photography, especially on sunny days when the colors pop.
Capture the beautiful sunset views over the bay, offering a romantic backdrop for photos.
A scenic area nearby with picturesque mountains and traditional ryokans, ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Beppu
Beppu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A unique cooking method using hot steam from the geothermal springs, often featuring seafood and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Fried chicken tempura, a local specialty that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
A hearty soup made with rice dumplings, vegetables, and meat, perfect for warming up after a soak.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, seafood, and various street food options to sample.
Various food stalls offering local delicacies near the Hells of Beppu attractions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always wash and rinse your body before entering an onsen, and never bring towels into the bathing area.
Maintain a respectful volume in public areas, especially on public transport.
Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect; a slight bow is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Beppu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan; good service is expected without additional gratuity.
Most places accept cash, but credit cards are becoming more widely accepted; it's good to carry yen for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings cherry blossoms and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer can be hot and humid, but festivals and fireworks add excitement; enjoy the local summer delicacies.
Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, particularly in parks and mountains, ideal for hiking and photography.
Winter is cold, but the onsens are especially inviting; try to enjoy the unique experience of soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow.
Beppu at Night
Hiking in Beppu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering trails of varying difficulty and breathtaking views from the summit.
Scenic trails within the park that provide beautiful vistas and access to various outdoor activities.
Airports
How to reach Beppu by plane.
Located about 35 km from Beppu, Oita Airport serves domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population consists mainly of Japanese citizens, with a strong sense of community and hospitality.
Beppu attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those seeking wellness and relaxation through its onsens.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with local teams often drawing large crowds during the season.
Soccer has a growing following, with local leagues and teams gaining popularity among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beppu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for dashi (fish stock) in soups.
Make sure to communicate any food allergies, as seafood is prevalent in many dishes.