Top Oita Prefecture Art & Culture

Looking for a tour that covers all the highlights of Beppu? From must-visit spots such as the famous 'Hells', to local, hidden gems, including traditional onsen districts and a unique bamboo craft center - we've got you covered! With a private chartered vehicle, you’ll enjoy a stress-free, comfortable journey as a friendly & knowledgeable local guide takes you around the area. You'll get insider knowledge and hear fascinating stories about Beppu’s rich history & culture. Enjoy authentic encounters with locals, engage in immersive cultural activities, and create lasting memories. This tour is perfect for adventure-seekers, families with children, and anyone eager to explore the heart of Beppu in a fun and meaningful way.

Fancy avoiding crowded touristic hotspots and exploring more 'local' areas you likely wouldn't find in a travel brochure? In this exclusive, small-group walking tour, you'll immerse yourself in history & culture whilst strolling through the streets of downtown* Beppu. Experience the work and daily lives of the local artists who live here, visit a bamboo craft factory** and enjoy a rare chance to meet skilled artisans face to face. The tour culminates in a visit to a century-old Japanese house comprising a contemporary art gallery and gift shop. The house also features a history room showcasing historic photographs of Beppu’s past. *Please be aware that: a) this tour does NOT cover popular touristic spots (such as the 'Hells'), but showcases the city's lesser-known cultural streets & alleys, and b) you will not be shown inside an onsen building **Please also note that due to the possibility of businesses varying opening times, the route & places visited may be subject to change.

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.

Start your day with a guided visit to Beppu’s famous Umi Jigoku and Oniishi Jigoku, followed by a scenic ride on the Beppu Ropeway to Mt. Tsurumi’s summit. Enjoy cool mountain air and panoramic views with your English-speaking guide by private car. After descending, you’ll board a local bus (without the guide) and head to the charming hot spring town of Yufuin. From this point, the tour becomes self-guided. You’ll receive a custom English map with recommendations for walking through Yufuin’s highlights—Yunotsubo Street, Lake Kinrinko, cafés, shops, and hot springs. This format gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you would prefer a private driver or guide in Yufuin, optional arrangements are available upon request. However, the self-guided format is the most budget-friendly and flexible option. Please note: This tour does not include travel insurance. This activity is very safe but We recommend that participants have valid overseas travel insurance!

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Beppu! Beppu is famous as a hot spring resort, the point clearly seen in the hot steam rising from vents in the earth. Onsens being the main point of attraction to the area, there are several ways to enjoy them. Along with the traditional way of bathing, some hot springs are just for viewing, as their beauty can be very charming. In addition, boiled eggs and pudding cooked using the high temperature steam are also popular. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.

Please note that even if you select “Tour Language: English(written),” the driver speaks Japanese only. Communication will be supported using a translation app, and English tour information will be provided in advance. - Private tour designed for cruise passengers Discover Beppu’s geothermal wonders and mountain scenery on this 6-hour private shore excursion for cruise passengers. Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the Kokonoe “Yume” Suspension Bridge, Japan’s tallest pedestrian bridge, and walk across its 390 meters while enjoying spectacular valley and waterfall views. Then, return to Beppu to explore its famous “Hells” , including the vivid blue Umi Jigoku, bubbling Oniishibozu Jigoku, red Chinoike Jigoku, and the Tatsumaki Jigoku geyser. Travel comfortably in a private car with a flexible schedule, ensuring a smooth return to your ship.

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.

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.

◆An English-speaking guide takes you on a half-day Hell tour of Beppu. ◆At Umi Jigoku, you can enjoy a deep blue hell and a Japanese garden where you can enjoy beautiful seasonal flowers and scenery. ◆There are unique objects and signboards in the garden of Kamado Jigoku, so there is no doubt that you can take interesting pictures♪ ◆In Jigokumushi, you can put your favorite ingredients in the boiling steam, and eat them. Taste the power of nature! (Food charges are not included.) ◆At Ideyu-zaka, you can experience the retro charm of the stone-paved slope where white steam rises between traditional wooden inns. This heart of Kannawa invites you to discover hidden foot baths and the timeless warmth of a village frozen in time.

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.

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.

Begin your tour at the legendary Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour), where you can witness surreal geothermal sights like blood-red hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming geysers. These natural wonders are not for bathing, but are perfect for unforgettable photos and cultural insight. Next, visit a traditional onsen footbath or public bathhouse to experience Beppu’s therapeutic waters for yourself. Even a short soak is relaxing and deeply local. Then, head to the Kannawa District, where old wooden houses and narrow lanes are shrouded in steam rising from the streets. Enjoy a unique local treat: onsen-steamed cuisine, where vegetables, eggs, and buns are cooked using natural hot spring steam—healthy, flavorful, and fun to watch being made. End your tour with a walk through the Beppu Station area, where you can shop for handcrafted souvenirs, enjoy a cafe, or grab a bite of the local specialty, toriten (tempura chicken).

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.

This half-day English guided tour offers a rare chance to experience the authentic charm of rural Japan — something you won't find in big cities. You'll wear a traditional yukata and explore a 120-year-old Japanese house and garden, taking memorable photos along the way. At Nakatsu Castle, famous for its flowers, you'll enjoy another photo opportunity. The tour includes a visit to a traditional wagasa (Japanese umbrella) workshop, a tasting of matcha and wagashi at a long-established sweets shop, and a hands-on wagashi-making session with a skilled artisan. You'll also enjoy a Michelin-recognized soba lunch and visit to a century-old tea shop to taste premium gyokuro and a beautiful matcha parfait. This unique experience invites you to discover the beauty, flavor, and craftmanship of Japan's cultural heritage in just six and a half hours.

Explore Beppu, one of the world’s top hot spring towns, with a friendly local guide by car. Visit Umi Jigoku and walk through the historic Kannawa Onsen area filled with steam, hot springs, and local culture. This flexible tour can be customized for food lovers, nature seekers, photographers, or guests wanting a relaxing local experience. During summer, we recommend starting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy Beppu more comfortably and avoid the midday heat. Cool down with Japanese sweets or refreshing kakigori at local cafes, relax around the peaceful Shidaka Lake area or scenic mountain viewpoints, and discover hidden spots loved by locals. Optional private onsen baths, sound meditation experiences, and vegan or vegetarian-friendly food options are also available. You can also enjoy local steam-cooked cuisine, quiet backstreets of Kannawa, seasonal nature, and relaxing views of Beppu’s mountains and ocean atmosphere throughout the tour.

Step beyond the surface of Beppu and dive into the steamy streets of Kannawa Onsen, one of Japan’s most historic hot spring districts. Accompanied by an English-speaking local guide, you’ll stroll through charming alleys lined with traditional bathhouses, hear stories of how the town was shaped by geothermal energy, and experience how local residents live side by side with the ever-rising steam. Along the way, you’ll learn about Beppu’s unique onsen culture and history, from ancient legends to modern-day life. You can also choose your favorite “Jigoku” (Hot Spring Hell) to visit—whether it’s the vivid blue waters of Umi Jigoku, the mystical Shiraike Jigoku, or the lively Kamado Jigoku, where locals demonstrate how to cook with natural steam.

Step back in time in Usuki, a serene castle town steeped in samurai history and culinary delights. This tour unveils the Usuki Stone Buddhas, a National Treasure of Japan, known for their tranquil expressions. Stroll through the charming Nioza Historical District, walking the ancient paths once tread by samurai, and explore the impressive ruins of Usuki Castle. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic Kyushu town while savoring local delicacies that reflect its rich culinary traditions. - Discover the enchanting Usuki Stone Buddhas, a National Treasure - Walk the historic paths of the Nioza district, once frequented by samurai - Explore the captivating ruins of Usuki Castle for a glimpse into the past - Enjoy a taste of local cuisine that showcases the town's culinary heritage

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Japan's countryside with a unique shiitake mushroom tour. Over the course of three hours, visit a local family farm nestled in Oita Prefecture, Japan's leading shiitake producer. Guided by a local expert, you'll partake in the traditional method of harvesting these flavorful mushrooms directly from the log, followed by a delightful outdoor BBQ where you grill your freshly picked shiitake along with other local ingredients. This small-group tour offers a personal touch, ensuring an authentic rural experience that highlights the region's rich nature and culinary delights. - Hands-on mushroom harvesting directly from the farm - Enjoy a farm-to-table BBQ featuring your freshly picked shiitake - Experience authentic rural culture by visiting a local family farm - Small-group tour limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience

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

"DRUM TAO," a traditional Japanese taiko drum performance group, is collaborating with Aso-Kuju National Park to present an entertainment event. DRUM TAO is renowned for their powerful taiko drum performances and dynamic shows. They blend traditional taiko drumming with a modern flair, offering energetic and captivating performances. Aso-Kuju National Park is a stunning natural conservation area located in Kumamoto Prefecture, known for its rich natural landscapes and hot springs. In this event, the impactful drumming of DRUM TAO will merge with the beautiful scenery of Aso-Kuju National Park, providing a unique entertainment experience.

Create a one-of-a-kind bath bomb as a special memory of your trip to Beppu! At Yuasobi Lab, you can choose your favorite colors, scents, and decorations to make your own original bath bomb. You can also place a small toy inside, making it a fun experience for children as well. Your finished bath bomb can be taken home on the same day. Gift boxes and message cards are also available, making it perfect as a souvenir or a thoughtful present for someone special. This indoor activity is great for rainy days and is recommended for couples, friends, families, and travelers with children.

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

Led by highly qualified photographers, our program works around your travel schedule, capturing natural and memorable shots. -Available anywhere in Oita / Yufuin / Beppu. -The original 100+photo files will be delivered. -Photography can be booked up to 3 days in advance. Please select your preferred shooting location from the Location list and inform us when booking or via Chat. ①Yufuin Floral Village / Yunotsubo St. ②Lake Kinrin(Yufuin) ③Beppu Park ④Shidaka Lake(Beppu) ⑤Other location in Oita (Additional fees will be charged for outlying areas) ＜Proposal Photography Option＞ Planning a surprise proposal in Oita / Yufuin / Beppu? We offer optional proposal photography plans to help capture this special moment. - Plan A: 1-hour proposal photoshoot, 100+ original photo files, and pre-consultation via chat. - Plan B: Includes everything in Plan A, plus a short smartphone video capturing the proposal moment (about 30 seconds).