Ōita

Planning Your Ōita Trip

Essential Information

Planning a trip to Ōita, Japan? Here’s what you need to know:

Japan

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Japanese

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Ōita Weather & Climate

Ōita enjoys four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) is mild and welcoming, with cherry blossoms gracing the landscape in late March and early April. Summer (June-August) brings heat and humidity, averaging temperatures in the high 20s Celsius. Autumn (September-November) offers cooler, pleasant temperatures and a stunning display of colorful foliage. Winter (December-February) is cold, with occasional snowfall, particularly in the mountainous areas.

Discovering Ōita City

City Overview

Ōita, the vibrant capital of Ōita Prefecture on Kyushu Island, is a captivating fusion of modern city life and stunning natural beauty. Renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, especially Beppu’s iconic onsen, and its breathtaking coastal scenery, Ōita presents a diverse range of experiences. The city seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, showcasing contemporary architecture alongside ancient temples and shrines. Ōita is also a vital industrial center, significantly contributing to Japan’s economy. Beyond its economic significance, Ōita is a cultural hub, boasting numerous museums, art galleries, and festivals that celebrate the region’s unique heritage. The locals are friendly and the pace of life is relaxed, making it a fantastic destination for both leisure and cultural immersion. And don’t forget the delicious local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties, further enhancing Ōita’s appeal as a must-visit city in Japan.

Best Time to Visit Ōita

Knowing when to go is key to making the most of your Ōita adventure.

Seasonal Pros and Cons:

• Spring (March-May): Pros: Delightful weather, beautiful cherry blossoms. Cons: Can get crowded during peak cherry blossom season.
• Summer (June-August): Pros: Perfect for outdoor activities, like hiking and exploring. Cons: Can be quite hot and humid.
• Autumn (September-November): Pros: Gorgeous fall foliage, comfortable temperatures for exploring. Cons: Risk of typhoons bringing unpredictable weather.
• Winter (December-February): Pros: Fewer tourists, ideal for hot spring enjoyment. Cons: Chilly weather, with potential for snow.

Getting to Ōita: Flights, Trains & Visa Information

Flights, trains, visa details, airport transfers:

• Flights: Ōita Airport (OIT) serves the city. You’ll find domestic flights from major Japanese cities such as Tokyo (Haneda and Narita), Osaka (Itami and Kansai), and Nagoya.
• Trains: Ōita is well-connected to Japan’s efficient Shinkansen (bullet train) network. To get here from Tokyo, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Kokura, then transfer to the Sonic Limited Express train to Ōita.
• Visa Details: Japan has visa exemption agreements with numerous countries. Citizens of these countries can enter Japan for tourism purposes for a limited time (typically 90 days) without a visa. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before you travel.
• Airport Transfers: Getting from Ōita Airport to the city center is easy with available buses and taxis. The bus is generally the most budget-friendly choice.

Ōita: Culture & History

Fun/Historical Fact or Story

Ōita Prefecture is famously known as the “Onsen Prefecture,” and for good reason – it’s brimming with hot springs! Beppu alone boasts the highest concentration of hot spring sources in Japan, numbering over 2,300! These therapeutic waters have been drawing visitors for centuries and play a pivotal role in the region’s culture and economy.

Famous Personalities from Ōita

Kenzo Tange: This celebrated architect, though born in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, spent his formative years in Ōita and is strongly associated with the region. He’s famous for designing iconic structures like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Top 10 Ōita Attractions

Must-see destinations for your Ōita itinerary.

• Beppu Onsen: One of Japan’s most renowned hot spring resorts, celebrated for its wide array of onsen experiences, including mud baths and sand baths.
  • Address: Beppu, Ōita Prefecture
• Yufuin: A charming onsen town nestled in the mountains, offering picturesque scenery and a soothing atmosphere.
  • Address: Yufuin, Yufu, Ōita Prefecture
• Usa Jingu Shrine: A significant Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back to the 8th century.
  • Address: 2859 Minami Usa, Usa, Ōita 872-0102, Japan
• Takasakiyama Monkey Park: Home to a thriving population of wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys).
  • Address: Japan, 〒870-0802 Ōita, Saruyama, 神崎3098-1
• Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago: A modern aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of the local waters.
  • Address: 4148-1 Kozaki, Oaza, Ōita, 870-0297, Japan
• Oita Prefectural Art Museum: Showcases a compelling collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Address: Japan, 〒870-0036 Ōita, Funai-cho, 4 Chome−1−14
• Harmony Land: A delightful Sanrio-themed amusement park starring Hello Kitty and other beloved characters.
  • Address: 5933 Fujiwara, Oaza, Kitsuki, Ōita 872-0116, Japan
• Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Suspension Bridge: A breathtaking suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and cascading waterfalls.
  • Address: Japan, 〒879-4911 Ōita, Kusu, Kokonoecho, Tanemuda, 1208
• Beppu Hells (Jigoku Meguri): A fascinating collection of unique and vibrantly colored hot springs for viewing and photography only.
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0000 Ōita, Beppu, 鉄輪
• Mount Yufu: Offers excellent hiking trails that reward you with stunning panoramic views of the picturesque Yufuin Basin.
  • Address: Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan

Ōita’s Hidden Gems

Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations for a unique experience.

• Fukiji Temple: A tranquil temple nestled in the Kunisaki Peninsula, revered for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Address: Japan, 〒873-0501 Ōita, Bungotakada, Fuki, 2395
• Kunisaki Peninsula: Discover the remarkable Buddhist temples and ancient stone Buddhas scattered throughout this captivating peninsula.
  • Address: Kunisaki, Ōita Prefecture
• Usuki Stone Buddhas: Admire a collection of over 60 ancient stone Buddhas exquisitely carved into the sides of cliffs.
  • Address: 804-1 Fukada, Usuki, Oita 875-0064, Japan

Ōita’s Festivals & Events

Experience the local culture through vibrant celebrations.

• Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival (April): A joyous celebration of Beppu’s renowned hot spring culture, featuring diverse events and activities.
• Usa Jingu Shrine Reitaisai Festival (May): A traditional festival marked by processions, enchanting music, and captivating dance performances.
• Yufuin Film Festival (August): An annual film festival showcasing an impressive array of independent and international films.

Day Trips from Ōita

Explore the surrounding regions with these convenient day trips.

• Kitsuki (45 minutes): Explore a well-preserved castle town boasting samurai residences and traditional architecture.
• Hita (1 hour): Discover a historic town celebrated for its mameda-machi district, adorned with traditional merchant houses.
• Mount Aso (2 hours): Journey to an active volcano that offers breathtaking landscapes and fantastic hiking trails.

Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Ōita

Capture unforgettable moments at these scenic locations.

• Yufuin Floral Village: Wander through a charming village featuring European-style buildings and stunning flower displays.
• Beppu’s steaming hells: Capture the otherworldly beauty of these vibrantly colored hot springs.
• Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Suspension Bridge: A spectacular spot for panoramic photos of the surrounding landscape.
• Usa Jingu Shrine: The serene atmosphere and traditional architecture provide stunning photo opportunities.

Ōita Hotels & Accommodation

Recommended Length of Stay

Plan to spend at least 3-4 days to explore the main attractions and immerse yourself in Ōita’s hot spring culture.

Top Places to Stay (sorted by budget)

Budget-Friendly Ōita Hotels

• Guesthouse Akari: A cozy and affordable option in Beppu.
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0933 Ōita, Beppu, Kitahama, 2 Chome−8−22
• Guest House Danran: Another great budget choice in Beppu.
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0920 Ōita, Beppu, Motomachi, 1-18
• Ryokan Midori-So: Experience traditional Japanese accommodation at an affordable price.
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0933 Ōita, Beppu, Kitahama, 2 Chome−11−17

Mid-Range Ōita Hotels

• Hotel Shiragiku: A comfortable and conveniently located hotel in Beppu.
  • Address: 3-17-1 Kitahama Beppu, Oita 874-0933, Japan
• Kamenoi Hotel Beppu: Offers great amenities and a central location in Beppu.
  • Address: 5-17 Chuo-machi Beppu, Oita 874-0920, Japan
• Yufuin Ryokan Yasuha: A traditional ryokan experience in the heart of Yufuin.
  • Address: Japan, 〒879-5102 Ōita, Yufu, Yufuincho Kawakami, 1271-1

Luxury Ōita Hotels & Resorts

• Suginoi Hotel: Famous for its stunning rooftop onsen with panoramic views.
  • Address: 1 Kankaiji, Beppu, Oita 874-0822, Japan
• AMANE RESORT GAHAMA terrace: Experience luxury and tranquility in Beppu.
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0000 Ōita, Beppu, 大字上人ヶ浜５１７−１
• Yufuin Sansuikan: Indulge in a luxurious ryokan experience in Yufuin with private onsen.
  • Address: Japan, 〒879-5102 Ōita, Yufu, Yufuincho Kawakami, 1272-1

Getting Around Ōita

Ōita has a reliable public transportation system consisting of buses and trains. Taxis are also readily available. Renting a car is a good option for exploring the surrounding areas. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the city center.

Essential Ōita Travel Tips

What to Pack for Ōita

Pack comfortable walking shoes, clothes appropriate for the season, a swimsuit for onsen, and a universal adapter for electronics. A phrasebook or translation app can also be helpful.

Useful Apps for Traveling in Ōita

Google Maps (navigation), HyperDia (train schedules), Google Translate (translation), Tabelog (restaurant reviews).

Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette in Ōita

• Safety: Ōita is a relatively safe city. Take standard precautions against petty theft.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes and some temples. Avoid talking loudly on public transportation. Tipping is not customary.

Ōita Food, Fun & Finds

Top Restaurants in Ōita

• Restaurant Toyotsune (Tempura): Famous for its delicious tempura dishes.
  • Description: Traditional tempura restaurant
  • Address: Japan, 〒870-0035 Ōita, Funai-cho, 3 Chome−2−1
  • Location: Near Oita Station
• Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa (Steam Cooking): A unique restaurant where you can steam your own food using natural hot spring steam.
  • Description: Steam cooking experience
  • Address: Japan, 〒874-0045 Ōita, Beppu, Kannawa, 5
  • Location: Kannawa Onsen area, Beppu
• Toriten Restaurant (Chicken Tempura): Indulge in the local specialty of toriten (chicken tempura).
  • Description: Local chicken tempura specialist
  • Address: Various locations around Ōita
  • Location: Various Locations

Must-Try Dishes in Ōita

• Toriten: Chicken tempura, a local specialty.
• Dango-jiru: A hearty miso soup with thick wheat noodles and vegetables.
• Bungo beef: High-quality wagyu beef from Ōita Prefecture.

Ōita Nightlife & Entertainment

• Beppu’s nightlife district: Offers a variety of bars, izakayas, and karaoke boxes.
  • Description: Variety of bars and izakayas
  • Address: Around Kitahama, Beppu
  • Location: Beppu City
• Oita Station area: Has several restaurants and bars that stay open late.
  • Description: Restaurants and Bars around Oita Station
  • Address: Around Oita Station
  • Location: Oita City

What to Buy: Ōita Souvenirs & Markets

• Beppu Bamboo Crafts: Beautifully crafted bamboo products, such as baskets and vases.
  • Description: Traditional bamboo crafts
  • Address: Various shops in Beppu
  • Location: Beppu City
• Yuzu Kosho: A spicy citrus condiment made from yuzu peel, chili peppers, and salt.
  • Description: Citrus condiment
  • Address: Local supermarkets and souvenir shops
  • Location: Throughout Ōita
• Oita Specialty Sweets: Such as “Kabosu” flavored treats.
  • Description: Citrus flavored sweets
  • Address: Local supermarkets and souvenir shops
  • Location: Throughout Ōita