Explore Oita
Japan’s Onsen Capital and Nature Lover’s Paradise

Oita Prefecture, located in northeastern Kyushu, is Japan’s premier destination for hot springs, lush natural landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Known for its vibrant onsen towns, scenic coastal views, and rich samurai heritage, Oita offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration for travelers.

※This page contains promotions.

Best Food in Oita: Must-Try Local Dishes

Oita’s cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, premium beef, and comforting regional specialties.

  • Toriten (Chicken Tempura): A local favorite, deep-fried chicken tempura served with a tangy dipping sauce.
  • Jigoku Mushi (Hell-Steamed Cuisine): Traditional dishes steamed using natural geothermal heat in Beppu.
  • Oita Wagyu Beef: Tender, flavorful beef raised in Oita’s pristine countryside.
  • Seki Aji & Seki Saba: Premium mackerel and horse mackerel caught in the nutrient-rich waters of Oita.
  • Dango-jiru (Dumpling Soup): A hearty miso-based soup with handmade wheat flour dumplings and vegetables.

Oita Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

Oita hosts vibrant festivals that showcase its rich traditions and natural beauty.

  • Beppu Hot Spring Festival (April): A lively celebration of Beppu’s legendary onsen culture.
  • Hita Gion Festival (July): A stunning festival featuring large, ornate floats parading through historic Hita.
  • Kunisaki Fire Festival (August): A mesmerizing fire-walking ritual at Futago-ji Temple.
  • Usuki Takeyoi Lantern Festival (November): A magical event where thousands of bamboo lanterns illuminate the streets of Usuki.
  • Oita Funai Festival (August): A summer event with fireworks, dance performances, and local food stalls.

Outdoor Activities in Oita: Things to Do Year-Round

From hot spring hopping to mountain adventures, Oita is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

  • Relaxing in Beppu’s Famous Onsen: Experience the best of Japan’s hot spring culture in Beppu, home to over 2,000 onsen.
  • Exploring Yufuin: A picturesque hot spring town with charming boutiques, art galleries, and scenic lake views.
  • Hiking Mount Yufu: A rewarding climb offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kyushu.
  • Cycling Along the Kunisaki Peninsula: A scenic route showcasing lush forests, ancient temples, and coastal beauty.
  • Diving in Saiki’s Clear Waters: A hidden gem for divers, with vibrant marine life and underwater caves.

Must-Visit Places in Oita: Top Attractions

Oita is home to some of Japan’s most stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

  • Beppu’s "Hells" (Jigoku Meguri): A collection of colorful, steaming hot springs that are too hot for bathing but fascinating to explore.
  • Usuki Stone Buddhas: A UNESCO-listed site featuring ancient stone-carved Buddhist statues.
  • Yufuin Floral Village: A fairytale-like area with European-inspired buildings, quaint shops, and stunning natural views.
  • Hita’s Mameda Town: A well-preserved Edo-period merchant district offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.
  • Harajiri Waterfall: Often called the "Niagara Falls of Japan," this hidden natural wonder is a must-see.

Getting Around Oita: Public Transportation Guide

Oita’s transportation network makes it easy to explore both urban and rural areas.

  • Oita Airport: Offers domestic flights connecting Oita to major Japanese cities.
  • JR Kyudai Line & Nippo Main Line: Connect Oita to Beppu, Yufuin, and Fukuoka.
  • Beppu Ropeway: A scenic cable car ride up Mount Tsurumi for panoramic views.
  • Local Buses & Rental Cars: Convenient for accessing onsen towns and rural attractions.
  • Ferry Services: Provide connections between Oita and nearby islands or Honshu.

Best Hotels in Oita: Where to Stay

From luxurious ryokan to budget-friendly stays, Oita offers a range of accommodations.

  • Luxury Hotels: Stay at ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa, featuring top-tier onsen facilities.
  • Traditional Ryokan: Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Yufuin Tamanoyu Ryokan, known for its beautiful outdoor baths.
  • Seaside Resorts: Enjoy a relaxing stay at Beppu Bay Royal Hotel, offering stunning ocean views.
  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Comfortable options like Daiwa Roynet Hotel Oita, ideal for city travelers.
  • Countryside Retreats: Escape to Sanso Murata, a peaceful hideaway in Yufuin’s nature.

Oita’s Cultural Heritage: Experience Unique Traditions

Oita preserves its rich history and spiritual traditions through cultural experiences.

  • Onsen-Hopping in Beppu & Yufuin: Discover Japan’s most diverse range of hot springs.
  • Samurai District in Usuki: Walk through well-preserved samurai residences and streets.
  • Rokugo Manzan Pilgrimage: Explore ancient Buddhist temples in the mystical Kunisaki Peninsula.
  • Beppu Sand Baths: A unique wellness experience where visitors are buried in warm, mineral-rich sand.
  • Bamboo Crafts in Beppu: Try hands-on workshops to create traditional bamboo art.

Best Souvenirs from Oita: What to Buy

Take home a piece of Oita with these unique local products.

  • Beppu Bamboo Crafts: Handmade woven goods using traditional techniques.
  • Yufuin Floral Village Sweets: Beautifully packaged confections inspired by Yufuin’s charm.
  • Oita Onsen Bath Salts: Bring the soothing effects of Oita’s famous hot springs to your home.
  • Usuki Soy Sauce & Miso: Artisanal fermented products crafted with natural ingredients.
  • Jigoku Mushi Snacks: Unique steamed treats inspired by Beppu’s geothermal cooking.

Plan Your Oita Adventure Today!

From the healing waters of Beppu’s onsen to the stunning peaks of Mount Aso, Oita is a destination that promises relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re soaking in an open-air bath, exploring ancient temples, or enjoying a bowl of Oita’s famous toriten, Oita is a must-visit destination in Japan.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides and start planning your trip to Oita today!