Beautiful western Oita Prefecture is Japan’s spa capital. Producing more glorious, invigorating thermal waters than anywhere else in Japan – perhaps even in the world – it’s a haven for vacationers looking for an all-around refreshing experience and the perfect complement to any Japan vacation.
But beyond its world-class spa culture, Oita is a place steeped in art, history, natural beauty, cuisine, and an incredibly warm welcome. We want to share all of this with you – which is why four years ago the Oita Prefectural Government set up its own Tourist Desk in London to help the travel industry learn more about this special part of Japan. We are still strong here in the UK and are even expanding our presence in France. So if you need any help, feel free to contact us in French or English. And well, here are a few things you should know about our lovely prefecture.
Hot springs in Beppu and Yufuin
Nestled between the mountains and the sea on the idyllic western island of Kyushu, Oita Prefecture is best known for its onsen – that’s Japanese for hot spring baths. The people of Japan just love soaking in a naturally warm bath, and Oita pumps out hundreds of millions of liters of mineral-rich medicinal waters every year. It is perfect for treating pain and many other ailments, with an incredible range of beauty and skin care treatments available.
One of the larger towns in Oita, the seaside town of Beppu is a sight to behold. The mountains are very close to the coast and the city is built into the hills where there is so much geothermal activity that clouds of steam rise into the air from natural steam vents around the city. Beppu specializes in various types of onsen, including the unique black sand bath, where you lie flat covered in naturally warm sand to cleanse your pores and leave you feeling amazing.
Meanwhile, nearby Yufuin is Oita’s beating cultural heart. This is a pretty town with art galleries, chic cafes and trendy boutiques. Several major art and literature festivals are held here every year. Located at the foot of Mount Yufu, the city is an excellent base for exploring the wilderness. There is also an exquisite onsen culture and many people stay here for days enjoying the atmosphere and minerals!
Tour of Kyushu
The Tour de Kyushu is a new annual road cycling race that will be held for the first time across the island in October 2023 as part of the UCI Asia Tour. The third and final stage of the race passes through Oita. The highlight of this section is a high-speed sprint over a 700m descent before heading around the scenic center of Hita town.
farm stay
We love a farm stay – a cozy night in the home of a hospitable host family on a range of charming working farms. This kind of green tourism is very popular in Japan and started over 20 years ago in the US city, right here in Oita Prefecture.
Noson Mimpaku, as it is called here, is a whole holiday philosophy. Visitors stay in the homes of ordinary farmers to experience their authentic lifestyle that draws people of all ages and nationalities to animal farms, fisheries, mushroom farms, tofu producers and more. Guests will learn about local produce, discover the local area and even learn to prepare delicious meals using freshly picked ingredients. Oita excels at offering visitors unique local experiences – be it by the sea, river, highlands or even on a remote island. It is the perfect way to find a spiritual home here.
Overnight by ferry to Osaka
Oita is very accessible from mainland Japan: you can fly into Oita Airport, catch a train from Hiroshima to Fukuoka, or travel in luxury on an overnight ferry from Osaka or Kobe. This is a fantastic way to travel – and cost effective too as it doubles as overnight accommodation!
We recommend cruising back to the mainland with an overnight trip from Beppu to the bustling city of Osaka. You’ll stay in a spacious deluxe cabin and get up early in the morning to prepare for the next leg of your journey, wherever it may lead. Japan’s first LNG-powered ferry operates this route – the green cruise ship, dubbed the Sunflower Kurenai, set sail for the first time in January this year, and the Sunflower Murasaki followed in April 2023.
This was just a taste of what Oita has to offer! We at the Oita counter in London would love to hear from you if you have any questions or requests. So feel free to contact us!
