10 Best Things to Do in Beppu

The Hells of Beppu is perhaps the city's most popular tourist destination. It consists of 7 bubbling hot springs that burst with colour while emanating clouds of steam. With 5 pools set in the Kannawa district and 2 more in Shibasaki, exploring each one ensures you get a satisfying glimpse of the city's leafy landscape.

While many come to Japan to soak in its hot springs, the Hells of Beppu aren’t suitable for this activity – water temperatures far exceed 100°C. However, you'll have fantastic opportunities to snap photos of the radiant red and turquoise hydrothermal waters that gurgle and fizz from deep underground.

The Beppu Beach Sand Bath is a great destination for those seeking a unique relaxation experience. Opened in 1986, it’s set along Shoningahama Beach, next to the Beppu International Tourism Port. Here, you get encased in hot sand brought to life by sodium chloride spring water. There’s enough space for 12 guests to enjoy the soothing sandpits.

As you take in seaside views throughout this 15-minute experience, dedicated staff help you get into a comfortable position. They’re also available to remove you from the sand should things get too hot for your liking. After a quick shower nearby to wash away any sandy remnants, you'll feel incredibly refreshed for the rest of the day.

The Kannawa district is where you can find many of Beppu's most impressive hot springs. People have used these onsens (bathhouses) for relaxation and medicinal purposes for hundreds of years.

Kannawa Onsen was founded in the 13th century by renowned Buddhist monk Ippen Shonin. Here, you'll lie on a bed of Japanese herbs before entering a natural hot spring. After enjoying Kannawa’s hot springs, you can wander along the streets to discover ancient traditions and take in views of plumes of steam rising above this enchanting area.

The Beppu Ropeway offers easy access to scenic vistas of Beppu. Established in 1962, it’s the largest of its kind in Kyusu. The famous gondola makes its way to the top of Mount Tsurumi, which towers up 1,300 metres above sea level.

The Beppu Ropeway can ferry around 101 passengers, taking about 10 minutes to reach the summit. Passengers are rewarded with exceptional panoramic views that stretch in every direction. The mountain is also home to stunning nature hikes and vantage points that help you savour the scenery.

Beppu Park is an outstanding place for a daytime stroll through the middle of the city. Here, the smell of pine trees emanates through the air, with various trees and flowers changing colours with every passing season. The park is also great for when you need a quiet retreat from the city’s touristy spots.

You will come across diverse natural settings, including vibrant native flowerbeds and a towering bamboo grove. If you’ve arrived in Beppu during the height of cherry blossom season, Beppu Park is one of the premier spots to take in their delicate splendour.

Shidaka Lake is a popular day trip to Beppu's nearby countryside. At 600 metres above sea level in the wonderful Aso Kuju National Park, this bucolic landscape is just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, so you don't have to travel far to include this place in your itinerary.

You can follow one of the many hiking trails and enjoy outstanding views of Mount Yufu and Mount Tsurumi in the distance. Alternatively, bring a packed lunch, roll out a picnic rug, and bask in the attractive lakeside sitting areas.

The Jumonji Viewpoint offers some of the most incredible vistas over Beppu. The top of this towering hill presents outstanding views across Beppu Bay and Oita Valley. During daylight hours on a clear day, it's possible to see Cape Sada, which sits about 50 km away on Shikoku Island.

The Jumonji Viewpoint is also a thriving night-time landmark, as you get to experience dazzling views of the bright cityscape that light up the sky. Note that you’ll need a car or bicycle to get to the viewpoint from central Beppu.

The Oita Fragrance Museum is great for those who appreciate a high-end perfume or cologne. The complex has engaging exhibits about the history of fragrances and thousands of bottles from around the world.

Alongside these engaging displays, you’ll have an opportunity to make your own perfume for an extra fee. Plus, the Oita Fragrance Museum has a charming café where you can enjoy a snack before taking a stroll through the gorgeous private garden. The museum is around 2 km west of the Beppu International Tourism Port and Beppu Beach Sand Bath.