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Oita Prefecture, located in Kyushu, is renowned as Japan’s leading hot spring destination. With famous onsen towns like Beppu and Yufuin,
Oita offers relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Top Areas to Explore in Oita
1. Beppu Onsen
Beppu Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, featuring over 2,000 springs. Visitors can experience a variety of baths, including mud baths, sand baths, and steam baths.
The “Hells of Beppu,” a collection of colorful hot spring pools, is a must-see attraction.
2. Yufuin
Yufuin is a charming onsen town surrounded by lush greenery and the picturesque Mount Yufu. Visitors can enjoy boutique shops, art galleries,
and tranquil hot springs. Lake Kinrin, with its morning mist, offers a serene and photogenic setting.
3. Mount Takasaki Monkey Park
Mount Takasaki is home to hundreds of wild Japanese macaques. Visitors can observe these playful monkeys in their natural habitat.
The park offers well-maintained trails and feeding areas, making it a fun destination for families.
4. Usa Jingu Shrine
Usa Jingu Shrine, dedicated to the deity Hachiman, is one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines.
Located in a peaceful forest setting,
the shrine features stunning traditional architecture and serves as a spiritual hub for pilgrims.
5. Kunisaki Peninsula
The Kunisaki Peninsula is a hidden gem known for its historic temples, quiet hiking trails, and traditional countryside landscapes.
Futago-ji Temple, surrounded by ancient stone carvings and mossy paths, is a highlight of the area.
Experience Traditional Oita Cuisine
Oita’s cuisine reflects its natural abundance and coastal location. Try Bungo beef, a local delicacy, and toriten (fried chicken tempura), a popular comfort food.
Don’t miss fresh seafood like mackerel and horse mackerel from the Saiki Coast, as well as kabosu, a fragrant citrus
fruit unique to the region.
Oita: Basic Information
Location
Oita Prefecture is located in northeastern Kyushu, bordered by Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki Prefectures, with a coastline along the Seto Inland Sea.
Neighboring Areas
Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Miyazaki
Best Seasons to Visit
- Spring: Cherry blossoms at Usa Jingu Shrine and around Lake Kinrin in Yufuin.
- Summer: Beach activities and coastal exploration along the Saiki Coast.
- Autumn: Vibrant fall foliage at Futago-ji Temple and the Kunisaki Peninsula.
- Winter: Soaking in hot springs in Beppu and Yufuin, surrounded by serene landscapes.
How to Get to Oita
By Train: Oita Station is a major hub, connected to Fukuoka and Kumamoto via the JR Kyudai and Nippo Lines.
By Air: Oita Airport offers domestic flights with bus services to Beppu, Yufuin, and Oita City.
Transportation in Oita
Oita features a reliable network of trains and buses connecting onsen towns and major attractions. Renting a car is recommended for exploring rural
areas like the Kunisaki Peninsula and Mount Takasaki. Shuttle buses make travel between Beppu and Yufuin convenient.
