Top Oita Prefecture Art & Culture Classes

This calligraphy workshop focuses on creating text related to the surrounding hot spring region of Beppu. Participants can learn how to write words such as '温泉' - 'onsen' (meaning 'hot spring') and '地獄' - 'jigoku' (meaning 'hell'), under the guidance of a friendly local instructor. As well as being able to take your one-of-a-kind masterpiece home with you, this is also a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture, learning not only technique but also Japanese calligraphy etiquette.

Unlike many calligraphy activities, this class is taught by a professional Japanese calligrapher. As well as learning to write words of your choice, you will also have the rare chance to witness the aesthetic precision of a live calligraphy demonstration, giving you a real sense of 'wa' (和) - a concept cherished by the Japanese since ancient times.

This ikebana workshop offers more than flower arranging. Led by an experienced instructor, it combines storytelling, mindfulness, and sustainability through the use of loss flowers. With its 'kamishibai' (paper story-telling) style introduction, interactive quiz, and hands on creation, participants experience Japanese culture in a calm, personal, and meaningful way. Each guest creates a unique arrangement and leaves feeling relaxed, inspired, and more connected to nature and Japan.

Not simply an art class, this unique activity is taught directly by a professional painter. Exclusive to Beppu, this workshop is led by renowned Japanese artist Tomoe Higashi, who also speaks English. Tomoe studied art at Bath Spa university in the United Kingdom, before returning to Japan to become a full-time artist. Offering a rare chance to interact with a local artist, this workshop is centred around creating personalised cherry-blossom inspired pieces, providing participants with a cultural and artistic souvenir to take home with them.

What makes this activity special is the use of 'onsen' (hot spring) water direct from Beppu's water sources, in order to create natural colour variations that cannot be found elsewhere. Far more than just about dyeing fabric, the experience offers a chance to discover Beppu’s rich hot spring culture through colour and imagination. Unlike typical craft workshops, this is deeply connected to the land and traditions of Beppu, making for meaningful memories to take home with you. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends or with family, this activity offers a peaceful and personal way to connect with a truly special aspect of Japanese culture.

Sound Bath – Wellness & Mindfulness in Beppu Let’s enjoy a peaceful sound relaxation session in a cozy ocean-view music house in Beppu! This musical wellness experience is performed by two local musicians using harmonic instruments like handpans (432Hz), crystal bowls, singing bowls, gank drums (528Hz), and more. Rather than a concert, this is a calming, meditative session where you are surrounded by sound, helping you release stress and rebalance body and mind. After the 60-minute session, we guide you through short meditation and can also introduce local hot springs (onsen) and optional massage sessions by Beppu professionals 。 Perfect for beginners. No need to worry about language or music skills—just come, relax, and enjoy the healing journey in Japan. ◎ Easy to join. Feel the music. Flow with nature.

Discover the art of wood-carving in this hands-on workshop, in which you’ll create your very own, custom-made accessory/keepsake. Guided by a skilled local artisan, you’ll carve intricate 'kanji' (Chinese characters) or a design of your choice into Japanese boxwood - a wood known for its beauty and use in traditional craftsmanship. This experience offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about local culture and artisan techniques. No prior experience is necessary - just bring your creativity!

Japanese honeybees do not collect honey from specific plants (e.g. mandarin oranges), but from a variety of plants, which makes the honey unique to the area. Learn about the natural environment and local attractions of Bungo Ono and make your trip memorable by visiting a beekeeper and making crafts using beeswax under the guidance of a beekeeper. The ecological characteristics of Japanese honeybees and comparisons between Japanese honeybees and Japanese and Western honeybees are very interesting and provide an opportunity to learn about new honey attractions. Note: From November to early April, the bees are confined to their hives and can only be seen in the apiary. It is not possible to observe the inside of the hive. Note: This tour/activity requires a minimum of 2 participants