Complete Guide to Oita Prefecture: What to Do and Where to Stay

Oita, located on the eastern coast of Kyushu, is best known as Japan’s premier hot spring destination, boasting the highest number of onsen (hot springs) in the country. The prefecture’s most famous onsen towns, Beppu and Yufuin, attract visitors from around the world with their steaming hot water baths, therapeutic mud pools, and jaw-dropping natural scenery. But beyond its renowned onsen culture, Oita offers a rich history, unique landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions.

Oita provides the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, whether you’re soaking in an outdoor bath overlooking the ocean, hiking through volcanic landscapes, or exploring samurai-era temples and shrines. With its welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and deep-rooted traditions, this prefecture is a must-visit for travelers looking to experience the best of what Kyushu offers.

Oita is easily accessible by train, air, and ferry. From Tokyo’s Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport, travelers can take a direct domestic flight to Oita Airport (about two hours), followed by a bus ride into Oita City (one hour and 10 minutes).

Those traveling from Osaka or Kyoto can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kokura Station (two hours and 15 minutes) and transfer to the Sonic Limited Express for Oita Station (one hour and 30 minutes).

From Fukuoka, the Sonic Limited Express provides a direct route from Hakata Station to Oita Station, making it incredibly convenient and straightforward. Alternatively, ferry services run from Osaka and Kobe, offering overnight journeys to Beppu.

The Japan Rail Pass offers excellent value for international visitors traveling across Japan. It covers unlimited travel on Shinkansen trains and JR lines throughout the region.

Oita City is easy to navigate by bus, taxi, or rental car, with frequent services connecting onsen towns like Beppu and Yufuin. The local bus system provides access to most local attractions, while the Kyushu railway network makes exploring Beppu, Yufuin, and the surrounding countryside simple. For visitors planning to travel further into the region, rental cars are an excellent option for discovering hidden hot springs, scenic mountain roads, and less-touristy historical sites.

1. Relax in Beppu’s famous hot springs

Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, is home to over 2,000 hot springs that produce more onsen water than anywhere else in Japan.

From traditional onsen baths to steaming open-air rotenburo and footbaths, Beppu’s thermal waters have healing properties that soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. The town is also famous for its sand baths, where visitors are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand. Its mud baths also offer a rich, mineral-infused soak that’s remarkable for your skin.

2. Explore the Beppu Hells tour

For those looking to experience the best of nature’s wonders, the Beppu Hells tour (Jigoku Meguri) takes visitors through a series of vibrant, naturally occurring hot springs that are too hot for bathing but fascinating to witness. Highlights include Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) with its deep red waters, and Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), a striking blue pool of boiling thermal water surrounded by lush greenery. These steaming, bubbling landscapes provide a surreal and otherworldly experience unique to Oita.

3. Visit Yufuin’s scenic hot springs and art scene

Nestled in a valley with stunning views of Mount Yufu, Yufuin Onsen is known for its elegant ryokans (traditional inns), atmospheric shopping streets, and refined hot spring culture. The town offers a more rural yet tranquil alternative to Beppu, focusing on scenic outdoor baths, high-quality kaiseki (traditional multi-course) cuisine, and boutique art galleries. Visitors can stroll through Yunotsubo Street, lined with charming cafes and artisan shops, before unwinding at Lake Kinrin, a picturesque lake at the edge of town surrounded by misty forests and traditional ryokans.

4. Discover the historic Usuki stone Buddhas

A short journey from Oita City, the Usuki Stone Buddhas are one of Japan’s most impressive Buddhist relics, designated as a National Treasure. Carved into a rock face over 800 years ago, these ancient statues of Buddhist deities remain remarkably well preserved, showcasing intricate details and serene expressions. The surrounding countryside and peaceful temple grounds make it a beautiful and spiritual destination, perfect for those interested in Japan’s religious history.

5. Witness an underwater world at Oita Marine Palace Aquarium

Oita’s Marine Palace Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction featuring interactive exhibits, dolphin shows, and immersive underwater displays showcasing Kyushu’s diverse marine life. Located near the coastline between Oita City and Beppu, this modern aquarium offers panoramic ocean views. Visitors can see marine creatures up close in touch pools and open tanks. It’s an excellent stop for travelers with kids or anyone interested in Japan’s aquatic wildlife.

6. Get up close and personal with monkeys at Mount Takasaki Monkey Park

For a unique and up-close wildlife experience, Mount Takasaki Monkey Park is home to around 800 wild Japanese macaques, who roam freely in their natural habitat. The park provides an opportunity to observe these curious and playful monkeys up close while enjoying sweeping views of Beppu Bay. Unlike traditional zoos, the macaques live freely in the mountains, making this a more ethical and immersive way to experience Japan’s native wildlife.

Oita’s most popular festivals and seasonal celebrations highlight its deep cultural roots and connection to nature. The Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, held every year in April, celebrates the region’s hot spring culture with free public baths and the stunning site of Mount Ohira set ablaze. July sees the Yufuin Music Festival which brings live performances to the tranquil hot spring town. In August, the Oita Godo Tanabata Festival puts an explosive end to the region's summer festivals with an impressive fireworks display synced with music.

1. Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa

Set along Beppu Bay, Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa combines modern luxury with traditional Japanese hospitality. The resort features spacious western and Japanese-style rooms, a stunning rooftop pool overlooking the ocean, and a buffet restaurant with numerous seafood dishes sourced directly from the local region. Its prime location near Beppu’s famous hot springs makes it a perfect choice for those looking to relax in style while exploring the region’s most popular attractions.

2. JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom

Centrally located near Oita Station in Oita City, JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom offers modern comfort with easy access to Beppu, Yufuin, and the city’s cultural sites. The hotel features stylish rooms, an open onsen-style bath on the rooftop, and excellent dining options, making it an ideal base to relax and explore the region.

3. Etavia Yufuin Kinrinko

For those looking to stay in Yufuin’s scenic hot spring district, Etavia Yufuin Kinrinko offers a peaceful retreat near the town’s famous lake. The boutique-style hotel blends modern convenience with traditional charm, featuring private hot spring baths and elegant, minimalist guest rooms that offer a relaxing escape in one of Japan’s most beautiful onsen towns.