Top Oita Prefecture How to Get Around in 2026

Himeshima Island Half-Day Tour from Beppu Enjoy a smooth and worry-free island experience with pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Beppu Port. An English-speaking escort guide will meet you at your hotel or cruise port and accompany you to the ferry terminal, explaining the day’s schedule along the way. After crossing to Himeshima Island by ferry, you’ll meet a local island guide who knows the island’s history, nature, and culture in depth. On Himeshima, enjoy a relaxed half-day experience featuring: • Japanese mythology and local legends • Dramatic coastal scenery and nature • Traditional island culture • Relaxation at Hyoshimizu Onsen (tattoo-friendly) • Local food featuring Himeshima’s famous kuruma-ebi Highlights • Hotel or Beppu Port pick-up and drop-off • English-speaking escort guide • Local Himeshima guide • Myth, nature, culture, onsen, and food in one experience • Comfortable transportation from start to finish

Discover Beppu's rich bamboo heritage and stunning hot springs on this private tour. Start your journey at the Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center, where you'll create your own bamboo bell guided by local artisans. Next, marvel at the vibrant cobalt waters of Umi Jigoku, a hot spring celebrated for its stunning beauty and history. Stroll through the charming Ideyu-zaka street, immersed in the nostalgic atmosphere of Beppu's steam town culture. This experience is perfect for art lovers and families looking to explore Japan's unique traditions. - Duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes - Private tour for a personalized experience - Hands-on bamboo crafting and cultural insights - Admission to Umi Jigoku and local guide included

What makes this tour unique is the perfect balance of Beppu’s iconic geothermal wonders and its living traditions. While many visitors only view the Hells as sightseeing spots, this private tour goes further by connecting you directly with local culture. You will not only witness the surreal beauty of Sea Hell and Kamado Hell, but also taste the region’s heritage through a hands-on geothermal cooking experience. Traveling by private car allows for comfort and efficiency, making it ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time. With the guidance of a local expert, you gain insights into the spiritual symbolism of the Hells, the daily life of Kannawa residents, and the cultural significance of hot springs in Japan. This tour offers more than sightseeing—it offers a genuine encounter with Beppu’s identity, where nature, culture, and cuisine are all powered by the earth itself.

This private tour is designed for cruise passengers arriving in Beppu, Japan's greatest hot-spring city. Your government-licensed English-speaking guide and private vehicle meet you right at Beppu Port (or a nearby hotel) and take you straight to the highlights, with no time wasted on logistics. Over 6 fully customizable hours you choose 2-3 destinations and your guide tailors the day to you. Marvel at the cobalt-blue Sea Hell and the steaming crimson Blood Pond Hell, meet the wild monkeys of Takasakiyama, explore the yunohana steam huts of Myoban Onsen, or cook your own lunch with natural geothermal steam at a jigoku-mushi workshop. Prefer something gentler? Add the stylish hot-spring town of Yufuin. With your own private vehicle the pace is entirely yours - ideal for families, seniors, and small groups wanting comfort and a friendly local expert. You'll return to your ship relaxed and on time, having seen the very best of Beppu in one seamless day.

This private 4-hour tour is designed exclusively for cruise passengers arriving at Beppu Port, offering a compact yet immersive experience of the city’s iconic hot springs and geothermal wonders. Visit Myoban Yunosato, known for its thatched “yunohana” huts and milky white sulfuric waters with skin-enhancing properties. Explore two of Beppu’s most famous hot spring sites—Umi Jigoku, with its striking cobalt-blue pools, and Kamado Jigoku, known for bubbling mud and vivid red water. Travel comfortably in a private charter vehicle and gain deeper insight into Beppu’s culture and history with the help of an English-speaking guide.

Begin your private shore excursion with pickup from Beppu Port. Travel comfortably in your own private vehicle. Unlike a large group tour, there is no need to keep pace with other travelers, allowing you to enjoy each destination at your own pace. Travel to Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi, one of Japan’s highest pedestrian suspension bridges, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Return to Beppu and explore the famous Hells of Beppu, where colorful hot springs and steaming geothermal landscapes showcase the area’s volcanic activity. Continue to the historic Kannawa Onsen district, known for its traditional hot spring atmosphere and rising clouds of steam. The driver speaks Japanese, with communication assisted by a translation app. Before your tour, you will receive an English digital guidebook about the itinerary and sightseeing locations. Pre-tour customer support is available in English. Return to Beppu Port in time for your ship’s departure.

This walking tour takes you along part of the Kyushu Saigoku Pilgrimage, a route with a 1,280-year history. The five-kilometer route, with an elevation difference of 200 meters, takes about 3 hours to complete on foot. During the tour, you'll gain deeper insights into Buddhism and Japanese life. In terms of Buddhism, you can pray to the stone Buddhas and learn about the religion's characteristics as it traveled from China to Korea and eventually to Japan. You'll also gain insight into the origins of the route, and the significance of the 270 stone Buddhas. When it comes to life in Japan, you'll discover the blessings of the sea and mountains that surround the pilgrimage route. The sea on the opposite shore is not only a spectacular sight but also nurtures abundant resources and offers numerous opportunities to learn about the plants and monkeys that inhabit the surrounding mountains. You’ll experience a more authentic side of Japan that you won’t find in urban sightseeing.

Discover Hita, Kyushu's "Little Kyoto," on a fully private tour that immerses you in stunning natural beauty and rich history. Marvel at the breathtaking Sakura Falls and enjoy the serene landscapes at Oyama Dam, including a chance to visit the Attack on Titan museum. Explore the charming Mameda-machi, a perfectly preserved Edo-period town, and indulge in local cuisine at a selected restaurant. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more personal experience with local insights and cultural gems. - Duration: 5 hours of exploration and discovery - Includes a local guide and private, air-conditioned transport - Visit iconic sites like Sakura Falls and Oyama Dam, with flexibility for personal interests

Experience the Thrill of the Ride Reserve Your Adventure Now! Get ready to transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure with your electric Monster Kart rental! Cruise through the streets in a modern samurai costume, explore legendary spots like Kamado Shrine and the steamy realm of Kamado Jigoku, and turn heads everywhere you go. With powerful electric karts, immersive storytelling, and limited availability, this is not just a ride it’s a story you live. Don’t miss out book your kart today and step into the legend!

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan with a 7-day Kagura dance program in Usa, Kyushu. This unique tour offers an in-depth experience of traditional Japanese dance performance for kami, allowing participants to practice and eventually perform the Buzen Iwato Kagura. Engage with local experts, explore historic sites, and enjoy locally-prepared meals, making this journey a perfect blend of education and cultural immersion. Experience the essence of Japanese spirituality and artistry in a supportive environment, connecting with the local community through food and history. - 7-day hands-on training in Kagura dance with nightly practice sessions - Guided visits to significant cultural and historical sites, including Usa Jingu Shrine - Traditional meals crafted by local chefs, focusing on authentic Japanese cuisine - Exclusive performance opportunity at a shrine, concluding the immersive experience

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Beppu in this guided sake-tasting & bar-hopping tour. Starting with a sake-tasting experience at Space Beppu - a renovated century-old Japanese house & community space, you'll then move on to two further 'izakaya' (bars), where you'll be able to immerse yourself in the quirky alleys of Beppu's 'shitamachi' (downtown) area. With your guide, you'll be able to communicate with locals seamlessly without having to worry about those daunting hand-written Japanese menus!

Private cultural exploration through Beppu reveals a city shaped by ancient traditions, artistic heritage, and remarkable natural landscapes. Walk through historic districts where local markets, cultural landmarks, and traditional architecture reflect centuries of Japanese civilization. Scenic viewpoints and heritage streets create an inspiring atmosphere connected to a cultural legacy far older than the United States. Discover historic neighbourhoods, artisan influences, and vibrant local markets that showcase the region’s rich heritage. Ancient customs and artistic expression blend with architectural charm and breathtaking coastal scenery. Historic sites and cultural treasures reveal the enduring story of a community shaped by tradition and transformation. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Do you have a bucket list of things you’d like to see or do in Beppu? We’ll take you to those places on a stress-free private tour, guided by a local who will also support you as your personal concierge. We’re here as your local companion, so you can explore Beppu comfortably, at your own pace. Perfect for solo travelers, small groups, first-time visitors to Japan, and those with limited time in Beppu. Typical stops: Beppu Hells, Private Onsen, Shopping, Sand Bath, Kannawa, specialty restaurants, among others. Why Choose Us? Local Connection: You won’t just meet a guide. You’ll meet a local friend who keeps the tour friendly, simple, and focused on what you enjoy. Customizable Tours: Tours are flexible and based on your interests, whether hot springs, crafts, cuisine, or scenic spots along the tour route. If you have any special requests, just let us know in advance and we’ll do the best to accommodate them.

Experience two of Oita's most distinctive attractions on this relaxing 6-hour tour. Begin with a visit to a traditional Japanese sand bath, where you will be buried in naturally heated volcanic sand while enjoying the therapeutic warmth that has attracted visitors to Beppu for generations. This unique wellness experience is said to help promote relaxation and improve circulation. After your sand bath experience, enjoy a delicious lunch at Isoyoshi, a renowned local restaurant known for its fresh seafood and regional specialties. Savor the flavors of Oita through carefully prepared dishes featuring seasonal ingredients from the rich waters of the Bungo Channel. This tour offers the perfect combination of relaxation, culture, and local cuisine, providing an authentic taste of Oita's famous hot spring heritage and culinary traditions.

Immerse yourself in the volcanic heart of Kyushu on this exclusive private tour. You'll delve into the Aso-Kuju region, where nature's energy thrives. Feel the heat as you cook your own Onsen Tamago in the hot water heated by the geothermal source. Marvel at the stunning Nabegataki Falls and walk behind its impressive water curtain. Experience breathtaking panoramic views from Japan’s tallest pedestrian bridge, connecting with the local culture and secrets through your expert guide. Private tour offering a personalized exploration of the Aso-Kuju region Cook your own Onsen Tamago in volcanic steam vents Enjoy a geothermal-cooked Jigoku-mushi lunch (optional) Experience stunning views from Japan’s highest pedestrian bridge

Explore the stunning landscapes of Kyushu on this immersive day tour, featuring Taketa's rich history and the breathtaking Harajiri Falls. Experience the awe of the Fukoji Magaibutsu, a giant Buddha carved into a cliff, and discover the remnants of Oka Castle, offering panoramic views of the area. This private tour allows for a personalized itinerary, ensuring you dive deep into the cultural and natural wonders of the region. Enjoy the convenience of a private vehicle and an expert guide who will share local insights and stories as you journey between these remarkable sites. - Visit the majestic Harajiri Falls, known as the 'Niagara of Asia' - Explore the historic ruins of Oka Castle with panoramic mountain views - Discover the impressive Fukoji Magaibutsu, a giant cliff-carved Buddha - Enjoy flexible pick-up options from Beppu or Yufuin and a private guide

Enjoy Kusu’s iconic “table mountain” landscapes in one private day. Hike Mt. Hane’s open plateau and grasslands for up to 3 hours (pace adjusted), then switch to an easy, drive-up scenic stop at Mt. Kirikabu—reaching the summit area by car for panoramic views without additional hiking. Mt. Hane features a large colony of Miyama Kirishima azaleas, which bloom beautifully from mid-May to early June. Interested visitors can experience a tandem paragliding flight at the summit of Mt. Kirikabu. Advance reservations are required. Participants must be at least 140 centimeters tall, weigh at least 35 kilograms, and be in good health with no conditions that could interfere with the flight. Flights will be canceled in case of bad weather.

Discover the unique charm of Beppu on this well-balanced 6-hour tour, combining dramatic natural landscapes, wildlife encounters, and traditional culture. Famous for its geothermal activity, Beppu offers a one-of-a-kind environment shaped by powerful forces beneath the earth, creating unforgettable scenery found nowhere else in Japan. This tour takes you through the iconic Hells of Beppu, where you can witness striking hot springs with vivid colors and steaming landscapes. You will also visit Takasakiyama Natural Zoo to observe wild monkeys in their natural habitat, followed by a stop at the Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center to experience local craftsmanship. With private transportation and a carefully designed route, this tour is perfect for travelers looking to explore Beppu efficiently in a short amount of time. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

Mt. Hiko (Hikosan) is one of Fukuoka’s most sacred mountains. On this private day tour, you’ll walk sections of the historic pilgrimage route and learn how Shugendo and the yamabushi shaped the mountain’s spiritual landscape. Your guide will interpret the sites and stories in English, making the history easy to follow even if it’s your first time learning about Japanese mountain religion. This experience is designed for guests who enjoy hiking and occasional mountain walks. It is beginner-friendly for active travelers, but not recommended for people who do little to no exercise. The route and pace will be adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions.

This private day tour combines a scenic trek in Yabakei (Kyoshuho & Fururakan) with a cultural visit to Rakanji Temple. Walking time and route are adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions, while focusing on the best viewpoints and the most meaningful parts of the area. Please note that temple etiquette is important at Rakanji (including possible photography restrictions), and plans may change for safety in rain or after heavy weather. From mid-April to early May, the opposite bank of the Yamakuni River beside Kyoshuho is covered in blue nemophila flowers, offering a delightful view from the observation point. This experience is designed for guests who enjoy hiking and occasional mountain walks. It is beginner-friendly for active travelers, but not recommended for people who do little to no exercise. The route and pace will be adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions.

Experience Japan's hidden gem where steam railway heritage, samurai history, and mountain beauty converge in one unforgettable day. From exploring Kyushu's last roundhouse to sipping tea above the clouds at 360° panoramic views—this is authentic Japan beyond the guidebooks.

We leave Beppu city to Usa shrine by a comfortable private car. Private transportation is included. Our first spot Usa shrine is an important Shinto shrine as a top shrine of Hachiman shrine. It is also visited by Japanese imperial family directly with imperial offerings. You can enjoy walking in calm and Devine atmosphere in the huge precinct. At nearby restaurant, you can enjoy local meals as your lunch. Ooita prefecture is famous for fried chicken. I recommend some local fried chicken restaurant. Then we come back to Beppu city and visit two hot spring hells or Jigoku. You may enjoy foot bath of natural hot springs that can heal your tired legs comfortably. You can enjoy natural hot spring area which can be seen as red bloody pond and blueish sea like pond. Please take nice pictures in front of them.

Step back in time and explore Kitsuki, a beautifully preserved samurai town in Oita Prefecture. Kitsuki is Japan’s only “sandwich-style” castle town, with samurai homes on both hills and merchants once living below. Stroll its stone-paved slopes and quiet lanes and experience the charm of the Edo era. This fully private 6-hour tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Beppu Port. Your English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the journey, and in Kitsuki, a specialist local guide will join you to share the town’s history, traditions, and culture. Enjoy wearing a kimono, walking through the historic samurai district, and experiencing a traditional tea ceremony. You’ll also visit Nakano Sake Brewery, a six-generation family brewery, to taste award-winning Chiebijin sake. Transportation and local experiences are arranged for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy Kitsuki at your own pace. Please book early in advance. Kimono rentals are not available on Wednesdays.

Explore the stunning Kuju Highlands with a refreshing Nordic walk through the serene Tadewara Marshland, surrounded by nature's beauty. This tour includes a delightful premium Oita Wagyu beef lunch at the local Bebenko restaurant. Experience the thrill of walking across the Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi suspension bridge, offering incredible views. You'll then have two hours of free time to wander the picturesque town of Yufuin before being dropped off back at Beppu Station or your accommodation. - Private vehicle pick-up from Beppu Station or your accommodation - Nordic walk through Tadewara Marshland with beautiful scenery - Enjoy a premium Oita Wagyu beef meal at Bebenko restaurant - Explore Yufuin for two hours of free time after the bridge visit