Beppu

Saturday, March 29, 2025 Updated

The Hot Springs of Beppu | Kyushu

Featured Experience on our Southern Japan Tours vacation series: Discover the wonders of Beppu, Japan's undisputed hot spring capital! Nestled along the stunning Beppu Bay in Oita Prefecture, Beppu rivals Hakone as one of the most celebrated onsen destinations in the country. But what truly sets Beppu apart is its staggering volume of thermal water – more than any other resort in Japan! Imagine strolling through this charming town, where steam rises from every corner, and the air is infused with the soothing scent of minerals.

Beppu boasts not just one or two, but eight distinct hot spring areas, each offering a unique bathing experience. From invigorating mud baths to rejuvenating sand baths and cleansing steam baths, there's something for every preference. And don't miss the chance to dip your toes in the numerous free foot baths scattered throughout the town – a delightful preview of the bliss that awaits you inside the full-fledged onsen.

Like the best hot spring towns in Japan, Beppu offers a diverse array of baths and onsen experiences to enchant you during your stay. Prepare to be pampered, relaxed, and utterly captivated by the magic of Beppu!

The Tour of Hell | Oita

In addition to hot-springs guests can relax in, the Hells of Beppu are several spectacular hot springs renowned for their beauty and unique properties. The Tour of Hell is considered the highlight of sightseeing when visiting Beppu Spa, split between 8 spots. Our line of Southern Japan tours and grand tour packages will visit these Hells, including the Umi-jigoku (sea hell) made up of bright cobalt blue hot water, the Chi-no-ike-jigoku (blood pond hell) that gushes out hot water mixed with melted red clay, and the Tatsumaki-jigoku (tornado hell), a geyser that sprays out a massive stream of volcanic waters.

Experience the fiery Tour of Hell first hand in Beppu during any of our fully-escorted Southern Japan Tours or Grand Tour Packages available year-round! You can also hire your own personal tour guide for a private Japan tour through the highlights of Kyushu with our luxurious custom vacation options!

Must-Try Oita Soul Food | Toriten (Chicken Tempura)

When exploring the delicious Oita food scene, one dish stands above the rest as the region's definitive soul food: Toriten. Essentially chicken tempura, this beloved local specialty is a must-try for any visitor to Oita and Beppu.

What is Toriten? It features tender pieces of chicken, marinated, coated in a light and crispy tempura batter, and deep-fried to perfection. Unlike typical tempura, Toriten is most commonly enjoyed dipped in ponzu (a citrus-infused soy sauce) often mixed with karashi (Japanese mustard), offering a refreshing tang that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.

Considered a quintessential Oita gourmet experience and a true Oita specialty, you'll find Toriten served widely across the prefecture, especially in its birthplace, Beppu. It's available in various settings, from casual family restaurants and teishoku (set meal) diners to lively izakaya pubs.

Don't miss the chance to taste this crispy, juicy, and incredibly satisfying local favorite during your travels. Trying Toriten is key to understanding the heart of Oita's culinary identity and a highlight for anyone seeking authentic Japanese food experiences in Kyushu.