All Oita Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

"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.

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.

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.

Experience the Harmony of Nature and Food in Usuki, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. With growing global interest in the cyclical relationship between nature and food, as well as a focus on sustainable food culture, Usuki City-a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy-has long nurtured a rich and diverse food culture that continues to thrive today. Usuki is a region dedicated to sustainable food systems, emphasizing organic cultivation, local consumption, and the creation of soil full of vitality as part of its unique “Usuki style” food cycle. This tour offers a hands-on experience where participants can enjoy Usuki’s local agricultural products and brewing culture, all while feeling the deep connection between food and nature. From learning about soil cultivation to harvesting crops and finally preparing and enjoying a meal, participants will immerse themselves in the circular Usuki style of food, gaining a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature and what we eat.

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.

Unlike large group classes, every session at Sushi Kazu is reserved exclusively for one booking, ensuring a completely private experience for your group. Learn authentic Edomae sushi techniques from a professional instructor in a relaxed Japanese-style setting in Beppu. Discover how authentic Edomae sushi rice is prepared using red vinegar before making 10 pieces of sushi, including tuna, salmon, shrimp, scallop, eel, ikura gunkan, tuna mayo gunkan, and a negitoro hand roll. After the lesson, enjoy the sushi you created together with a traditional matcha dessert and one complimentary drink. Perfect for beginners, couples, families, and friends seeking an authentic Japanese cultural experience, this is more than a cooking class—it is an opportunity to experience genuine Japanese hospitality, learn traditional techniques, and create unforgettable memories in one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns.

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

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.

An English speaking interpreter will take you step by step through the history, etiquette and cultural importance of the Japanese tea ceremony, while you witness a demonstration from a local professional. Following the demonstration, you'll be invited to try making your own cup of 'matcha' tea - which you'll be able to savour along with a sweet local delicacy served at the side.

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

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!

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.

As well as being the only guided koto experience in Beppu, you'll be treated to a rare chance to hear the unique background story of the instructor, Hara-san, from her very own home - giving you a truly authentic taste of Japanese hospitality. Having played the koto since her childhood, and continuing as a hobby after retirement, Hara-san is passionate about sharing not only the culture of the koto, but the enjoyment that playing it brings - especially with those who are encountering its beauty for the very first time.

Rather than just admiring Japanese calligraphy, learn the traditional art for yourself with a hands-on private class. Benefit from one-to-one guidance as an instructor teaches you traditional techniques and shares expert tips to help you improve. During the session, practice words inspired by the local hot spring region, then take home your own calligraphy artwork as a souvenir.

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.

Engage with the culinary traditions of Oita Prefecture in this hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare beloved local dishes. Guided by a seasoned local host and supported by an English assistant, you’ll create regional specialties like Toriten (Chicken Tempura), Dango-jiru (Miso Soup with Wheat Dumplings), and Yase-uma (Sweet Kinako Dumplings) in a cozy, homestyle setting. This small-group experience allows for personal interaction and a deep dive into Oita’s rich culinary heritage, ensuring you leave with not only cooking skills but also a digital recipe card to recreate these flavors at home.

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.

This tour is thoughtfully created and guided by Beppu locals. Looking for a unique experience during your stop in Beppu? Join us on a private tour to Kyushu African Safari in the Ajimu Kogen Highlands, known for its stunning landscapes, grasslands, and breathtaking views. Observe lions, giraffes, zebras, and more as they roam freely in spacious, natural habitats. This family-friendly tour is perfect for cruise travelers arriving at Beppu International Port or guests staying nearby, looking to make the most of their short stay in Beppu. Why choose us? Local Connection: You won’t just meet a guide. You’ll meet a Beppu local friend who keeps the tour friendly, simple, and focused on what you enjoy. Customizable Tours: Flexible itineraries that can be customized along the tour route based on your interests. If you have any special requests, please let us know in advance. We will be happy to assist you. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Experience the charm of Beppu’s hot spring culture without the concerns of traditional public bathing. Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour includes a 100% private hot spring cabin where you can enjoy a relaxing 60-minute soak in complete comfort and privacy. Accompanied by a friendly English-speaking guide, explore the historic Myoban district, known for its geothermal landscapes, steaming vents, and centuries-old Yunohana huts. Travel with ease on local buses while learning about the unique history and culture of one of Beppu’s most fascinating hot spring areas. Complete your journey with a visit to the famous Okamoto-ya, where you can enjoy its signature geothermal-steamed pudding and onsen egg, specialties made using natural volcanic steam.

This half-day English guided tour is for up to three guests. It 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 130-year-old Japan 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 (Japan 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 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.

Discover a peaceful musical escape in Beppu, Japan’s famous hot spring town. In our ocean-view studio, join a hands-on workshop where you can try ukulele, acoustic guitar, or the rare handpan. No experience needed—just a love of music and curiosity. Guided in English, the session blends creativity and relax, beginning with tea or coffee ! You’ll enjoy mindful instruction, gentle sound bath moments if u like and a warm, relaxing atmosphere. After the workshop, we’ll share tips to enjoy local onsen. It’s a perfect cultural break for cruise travelers, couples, seniors, or solo visitors seeking connection, healing, and a memory to treasure in Japan.

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.

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.

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