All Oita Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

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

Uncover the geothermal marvels of Beppu on a guided “Hell Tour” that combines cultural insight with immersive experiences at three iconic sites: Umi Jigoku, Oniishibozu Jigoku, and Shiraike Jigoku. Begin at Umi Jigoku, home to a stunning cobalt-blue hot spring pond and rich local history. Walk through bubbling mud pools at Oniishibozu Jigoku, and find tranquility in the serene beauty of Shiraike Jigoku. This tour not only highlights the unique geothermal features but also delves into the significance of onsen culture in Japanese society. - Visit three distinct geothermal sites, each with unique characteristics - Learn about the historical and cultural significance of hot springs in Japan - Choose between meeting at Umi Jigoku or Beppu Station for convenience - Enjoy a guided experience with insights into the science and heritage of Beppu's hot springs

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 to feel the Edo-era charm. This cultural experience includes wearing a kimono, walking through historic streets, and enjoying a tea ceremony ! Transportation is not included. Taxis or public transit from Beppu. Round-trip taxi costs are around ¥20,000–¥25,000. You’ll also visit Nakano Sake Brewery, a six-generation family brewery, to taste award-winning Chiebijin sake. Please note: This tour is partially self-guided. A local guide will join you for part of the experience, while other segments will follow a provided itinerary. This activity does not include insurance. Please ensure you have personal travel insurance for any injuries or damages. Please reservation 1 week before. Kimono rentals are not available on Wednesdays.

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.

Deep in the green mountains of Oita lies the Onta Pottery Village, a UNESCO-recognized artisan community where traditional pottery has been crafted for over 300 years. This intimate small-group tour takes you behind the scenes to witness the timeless art of Onta ware, guided by a local expert. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in a historic thatched-roof house before exploring private kilns and workshops. Savor handmade soba noodles served on the pottery created by local artisans, enriching your appreciation for this cultural heritage. This tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic experience of Japan's rich folk art tradition. - Small group size for personalized attention, maximum of 6 participants - Engage with expert guides and local artisans in hidden heritage sites - Enjoy a local soba lunch served on authentic Onta pottery - Convenient transport provided from JR Hita Station, with hotel pick-up available

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!

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

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.

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

[Hot Spring Experience in Nature + Jigokumushi Steamed Snacks Experience Plan] Enjoy a hot spring experience immersed in the natural environment of a bamboo grove clearing. After relaxing, enjoy some Jigokumushi steamed eggs and pudding. You can also visit the Yunohana-goya huts, where "Yunohana," a naturally-derived bath salt, has been made since the Edo period. If the weather is good, you can enjoy a panoramic view from the mountainside overlooking Beppu Bay. *Please bring your swimsuit as this is a mixed-gender bath. *According to the guest's schedule, this tour can be concluded in Myouban Onsen area or Umijigoku.

◆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.

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

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.

The Oita River flowing through the Yufuin Basin, Lake Kinrin and the abundant hot springs are also Yufuin's unique natural blessings. The tour guide will walk with you through the back roads that few tourists visit, the countryside and waterside scenery, and show you the history and culture of Yufuin's development, supported by the bounty of nature. After the walking tour, enjoy lunch or tea time at one of Yufuin's popular ryokan.

Explore the captivating city of Beppu on a personalized private tour designed just for you. With a dedicated English-speaking guide, delve into the heart of this geothermal wonderland at your own pace. Enjoy the flexibility to customize your itinerary, ensuring you visit all the highlights and hidden gems that pique your interest. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, allowing access to locations that are often missed on standard tours. Enjoy an authentic experience that reveals the rich culture and unique landscapes of Beppu and the wider Oita Prefecture. - Private guided tour tailored to your interests and pace - Dedicated English-speaking local guide for insider knowledge - Flexible itinerary with access to unique locations by car - Comfort of private transportation throughout the tour

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).

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

Covering the highlights of Beppu's famous 'hells' located in the striking Kannawa district, this is a light, easy-going tour - ideal for those who only have half a day to spare. Guests will also be treated to some of the area's charming hidden gems, which would not typically be found on a standard tourist route. The tour kicks off at the Sea Hell ('Umi Jigoku'), followed by the Onishi Bozu hell. After visiting the hells, you'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the area's quaint streets. As well as stopping at a foot bath facility, you'll visit charming local shops, giving you the chance to meet locals and witness how the unique geography of the Kannawa area has shaped their daily lives. Cat lovers are also in for a treat, with the Kannawa area being a well-known haunt for stray kitties. Please note that places visited are subject to possible change, but we will ensure that any unavailable spots are replaced with suitable alternatives.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.