Oita Prefecture, located on the northeastern coast of Kyushu, is Japan’s undisputed onsen capital. With more hot spring sources than anywhere else in the country, Oita draws bath lovers from across Japan and abroad. Beyond its baths, the prefecture offers coastal scenery, cultural heritage, and fresh local cuisine.
📍 Quick Overview
- Location: Northeastern Kyushu
- Capital: Oita City
- Famous for: Beppu Onsen, Yufuin Onsen, Usuki Stone Buddhas, Seki-aji & Seki-saba
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round (autumn and winter are especially popular for onsen)
♨ Beppu vs Yufuin: Which Onsen Town Should You Choose?
Both Beppu and Yufuin are must-visit hot spring destinations, but each has a very different personality.
| Feature | Beppu Onsen | Yufuin Onsen |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Bustling, retro spa town | Elegant, calm, artistic |
| Bath Variety | Over 2,000 onsen sources, huge variety | Smaller selection, boutique experiences |
| Unique Highlights | Hells of Beppu, sand baths, steam cooking | Yunotsubo Street, Mount Yufu views |
| Best For | First-time visitors, families, variety | Couples, relaxation, scenic retreats |
| Accessibility | Easy access from Oita City | Short train/bus ride from Beppu |
🏛 Culture & Nature Beyond the Baths
- Usuki Stone Buddhas: Cliff-carved statues from the 12th century, a National Treasure.
- Kunisaki Peninsula: Historic temples and quiet pilgrimage trails.
- Takasakiyama Monkey Park: Wild macaques living naturally in the mountains.
- Umitamago Aquarium: Dolphin shows, marine life, and kid-friendly exhibits.
🍽 What to Eat in Oita
🍗 Toriten (Chicken Tempura)
Crispy chicken tempura served with ponzu sauce—a signature dish of Oita.
🍲 Dangojiru (Dumpling Soup)
Hearty miso-based soup with thick noodles and vegetables, perfect after a bath.
🐟 Seki-aji & Seki-saba
Premium horse mackerel and mackerel from the Bungo Channel, prized for sashimi.
🚗 Getting There & Around
- By Train: JR Limited Express Sonic from Hakata to Beppu (2.5 hours).
- By Car: Expressways connect Beppu, Yufuin, and Oita City—perfect for onsen hopping.
- By Air: Oita Airport connects to Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya.
🏨 Where to Stay
- Luxury: Yufuin boutique ryokan with private open-air baths.
- Mid-range: Beppu hotels with large public baths.
- Budget: Guesthouses in Beppu or Oita City.