Oita Travel Guides

Introducing recommended local information on Oita Prefecture. Oita Prefecture offers sightseeing spots such as Beppu Onsen, Matuma-iwa, and Kujyu Hana Koen, sightseeing events such as Oita Tanabata Festival, Yufuin Film Festival, and Hita Kawabiraki Sightseeing Festival, and local delicacies such as Toriten, fugu (blowfish) dishes, and Nakatsu Karaage (fried fish).

Oita Prefecture is located in the eastern part of the Kyushu region and was called Bungo Province. Oita Prefecture is known for its famous hot spring resorts such as Beppu Onsen and Yufuin Onsen, and is promoted with the catchphrase "Oita, the best hot spring prefecture in Japan.

Oita Prefecture, which boasts the largest number and volume of hot spring water sources in Japan, is also Japan's number one in geothermal power generation, which is utilized in a variety of industries.

There are ruins that indicate that people have lived in the area since ancient times, and the Yokoo Ruins in Oita City are said to be the oldest architectural components in Japan. During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), when the Otomo clan was ruled by Sorin Otomo, a well-known Christian feudal lord, the influence of trade with China and Portugal gave rise to the Nanban culture.

Although Oita did not become a major city during the Edo period (1603-1867), each of the eight feudal clans in the prefecture developed their own unique culture, and the history can be traced at these sightseeing spots where samurai residences and other structures still exist.

In Oita Prefecture, there are Beppu Onsen and Yufuin Onsen, which are famous in Japan, and Yufuin Onsen in particular has gained a good reputation for its calm and relaxing atmosphere because of the lack of entertainment areas and development to protect the scenery. The town was not developed to protect the scenery, and it has become popular for its relaxing atmosphere.

In addition, there are many inexpensive public hot spring baths in the area, and there are many ways to enjoy hot springs. There are many hot spring towns in Oita Prefecture to visit when you want to relax and unwind.

Oita Prefecture is also home to a number of hot springs known as "jigoku. Blood Pond Hell, so named because of the vermilion color of the hot spring water due to iron oxide and other substances, is designated as a national scenic beauty spot in Beppu Prefecture.

Tatsumaki Jigoku is a defunct hot spring, and hot water gushes out between 20 and 40 minutes. Boju Jigoku is a hell where mud boils at temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Celsius, and is so named because the spouting mud looks like a monk's head. While relaxing in the hot springs is a good idea, the hot springs known as "jigoku" are also a highlight of sightseeing in Oita.

Recommended spots for Oita

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Beppu Onsen

Steam baths, sand baths, jigoku (steamed food from hell), and the strange sight of hell

Beppu is a hot spring tourist spot with steamy water and the scent of sulfur in the air.Known as a hot spring city, Beppu has hot springs all over the city, with more than 2,000 sources and over 80,000 liters of water gushing out every minute, both the highest in Japan. There is a hotel and inn district around Kaigan-dori and Nagaregawa-dori in the central city center, and a bustling shopping dis...»

Yufuin Onsen

A relaxing hot spring village in the countryside

Yufuin Onsen spreads out at the foot of Mt. Yufu, and is a calm hot spring village where modern buildings blend well with the straw-thatched roofs that still remain in large numbers today. Yufuin is rich in hot spring water, with the second largest amount of hot spring water and the second largest number of hot spring sources in Japan after Beppu Onsen, also in Oita Prefecture. The Yubumi Street...»

Beppu Hell Tour

Jigoku refers to the boiling water, fumaroles, and hot mud that erupt from 200 to 300 meters below the surface of the earth.Each hell has its own unique color and composition, and they are concentrated in Kannawa Onsen. The "Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)" is a typical sightseeing course in Beppu that takes visitors on a tour of eight different hells, including the cobalt blue "Umi Jigoku" (Sea Hell),...»

Kinrin Lake

Fantastic scenery of morning mist created by hot springs

Kinrin Lake is a pond with a hot spring located in Yufuin Onsen, and the scenery of morning mist on the lake is one of the most representative landscapes of Yufuin Onsen. Hot spring water and fresh water gush from the bottom of the pond, and five rivers flow into the lake, some of which contain hot spring water of approximately 30 degrees Celsius. Due to the difference in temperature, a fantasti...»

Usa Jingu Shrine

One of the oldest shrines in Japan

Usa Jingu is the first shrine in Bungo, located at the foot of Mount Goshozan (647 meters above sea level) and is the head shrine of the 44,000 Hachimangu shrines in Japan. It is one of the most important shrines in Shintoism, and is considered one of the oldest shrines in Japan. In ancient times, it was treated as the Nisho Sobyo (the second shrine) along with Ise Jingu Shrine. It is one of the...»

Kokonoe "Dream" Great Suspension Bridge

The highest walkway in the sky in Japan

The suspension bridge, 390 meters long and 173 meters high from the riverbed, spans the Naruko River Valley at an elevation of 777 meters and is the tallest suspension bridge in Japan for human beings only. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the male and female falls of Shindo Falls, selected as one of the top 100 waterfalls in Japan, as well as the Kukenkei Gorge, famous f...»

Nakatsu Castle

One of the three largest water castles in Japan built at the mouth of a river

The castle was built at the mouth of the Nakatsu River, and its mock castle tower has become a symbol of the castle town of Nakatsu. Because seawater is drawn into the moat at high tide, it is also called a "sea castle," and along with Imabari Castle and Takamatsu Castle, it is one of the three largest water castles in Japan. It was also called "Senjo" (fan castle) because of the right-angled tr...»

Showa Town

Showa World in Onsen Prefecture

The central shopping street of Bungo Takada City flourished as the busiest town on the Kunitachi Peninsula through the 1950s. Since 70% of the old buildings built before the Showa 30s still exist, the city focuses on the "Showa era" and recreates the streets of the Showa era....»

Dango Soup (Oita)

Beppu Cold Noodles

Hita Yakisoba

Crispness and brisk harmony “Hita fried noodles”

The character by which it's "fried noodles" to shine on the menu of the store of Chinese noodles in Hita-shi. Though it's a store of Chinese noodles in the store, an iron plate is found! So the made menu is "Hita fried noodles". Commitment is baked directly, the condition". Noodles are seared with a high flame and it's completed by a source of each store secret until the surface becomes crisp by a...»

Buri no Atsumeshi (Hot Rice with Yellowtail)

Fishermen’s dish from Ooita. A hot rice bowl with buri.

“Burino atsumeshi (hot rice)” is a rice bowl dish topped with buri which is marinated in shoyu-based sauce, garnished with condiments such as green onions, nori and sesame seeds, and finished up by pouring green tea or dashi. It was invented by fishermen by slicing up freshly-caught buri to sashimi for meals,and also marinated the left over buri in shoyu as a preservative food onboard while fishin...»

Chicken Tempura (Specialty of Oita)

Gigokumushi

Beppu’s unique cooking method of using hot spring fumaroles to steam and eat

Fried Chicken from Nakatsu

Hyuga Donburi

Tori Meshi (Chicken Cooked Rice)

Oita-ken people, very, the loved taste

The one a fisherman made with pheasant and pigeon is called a first. The day when the past is clear sky and, well, it was made a tease (of a rice planting end, the god "Well." deified and by which it's a rice field) and the time when I had a guest....»

Ohan

Sesame Dashi Udon

Fried Chicken from Usa (Japanese Style)

Noppe Giru

The vegetarian food made with only vegetables

The vegetarian food transmitted to Yamakunigawa River basin. The soup which didn't put flesh and meat in and made with only vegetables. When there was a funeral before, women in an area made.I say a vegetarian food, but I also go up to a usual dining table. There is an opinion to which they may come from a burial, but the name as "NOPPE soup" isn't certain....»

Kujaku (local cuisine)

Himejima Shrimp Cuisine

Hittan Sushi

Multicolored bite sushi

Original sushi beautifully colored by sweetfish, eel, Donko, pickles and seasonal colorful vegetables. Old and new Hita this place gourmet and that are "day phlegm sushi". The hand-shaped sushi sushi with the bite size is also clean the appearance and popular with ladies, too. The leading role of day phlegm sushi is "or, rape book" by far the most. It's born in 1965 's and you have enjoyed many ci...»

Fugu (blowfish) Cuisine (Oita)

Suppon Cuisine (Oita)

Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis)

Nakatsu Karaage Donburi

The collaboration which is a rise from a specialty and a chicken feed

Bowl filled with abundant "from Nakatsu, rise" and chicken large country with local food from Oita and chicken rice "a lot" in a sacred place of a food fried without coat and Nakatsu-shi, Oita!Please taste by all means....»

Bungo Beef

Oita Kanmuri zidori (Crown Land Chicken)

Japanese maple (bird's foot)

Toyono Gamefowl

Bungo Aigamo

Seki Saba (blue mackerel)

Seki Azi (yellowfin tuna)

Oita Suppon (soft-shelled turtle)

Kurome (Seaweed)

Misaki Gazami (Japanese Blue Crab)

Oita Shrimp

Kabosu Yellowtail

Shiroshita Flounder

Oita Tuna

Chirimen

Kunisaki Gintachi (Tachiuo Great Sword Fish)

Tuna from Oita

Toyono Japanese Amberjack

Kabosu Flounder

Kabosu from Oita

Hita Pear

Chorogi (Japanese Artichoke) from Oita

Oita House Mikan (Mandarin Oranges)

Kunisaki Kiwifruit

Oita Dried Shiitake Mushroom

Kuju Takana

Saffron from Oita

Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms from Oita

Oita Ajiichi-Negi (Edible Green Onion)

Handmade Karinto (Purple Sweet Potato)

Yufuin Cheese Factory “Cheese Manju”

Guernsey Farm “Golden Cheesecake”

Hell Steamed Pudding

Xavier (Baked Sweets)

Yufuin Original Confectionery “Purindora”

Akashi “Soba Manju”

Melty Black Sesame Konnyaku Dessert

Nanban Roman Bomdia (Oita Famous Confectionery)

Shiitake Mushroom Kombu Simmered

Tsuki Sarasa (Gaufret)

Ayu Uruka (Salted Sweetfish)

Seki Horse Mackerel Dried Fish

Toyo no Tachibana (Japanese sweets)

Yuzu Pepper Rusk

Seki Aji (Horse Mackerel) / Seki Saba (Mackerel) Monaka

Moist Bean Paste Sweet Potato

Roll Cake “P Roll”

Kotokotoya “Homemade Jam”

This is Bungo Toriten (Chicken Tempura)

Oita Tori Meshi (Chicken Cooked Rice) base

Guernsey Farm Yogurt

Ham from Yufuin Kunfu Kobo

Yamaro Sesame Soup

Atsumeshi Sauce

Seki Kurome Ryukyu Sauce

Choshu Somen Kaichi

Sightseeing and travel guide for Oita

Certainly! Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, souvenirs, and more for sightseeing and traveling in Oita, Japan:

Sightseeing:
1. Beppu Onsen: Visit Beppu, one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns. Explore the "Hells of Beppu," a collection of unique and colorful hot springs. Take a relaxing dip in the various types of hot spring baths available.
2. Usuki Stone Buddhas: Visit the Usuki Stone Buddhas, a group of ancient stone statues carved into the cliffs. These impressive sculptures are a designated national treasure and offer a glimpse into Japan's history and culture.
3. Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago: Discover a variety of marine life and enjoy entertaining shows and performances at the Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago. The aquarium is known for its unique design and family-friendly atmosphere.

Dining:
1. Bungo Beef: Try Bungo beef, a local specialty known for its marbled texture and rich flavor. Look for restaurants in Oita that serve Bungo beef dishes, such as yakiniku (grilled meat), sukiyaki, or steak.
2. Oita Chicken Tempura: Sample Oita's famous chicken tempura, a regional variation of the popular Japanese dish. The chicken is lightly battered and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy and flavorful delicacy.

Lodging:
1. Onsen Ryokans: Stay in one of the many traditional Japanese ryokans in Oita, especially those in Beppu and Yufuin. Experience the luxury of hot springs and traditional Japanese hospitality.

Hot Springs:
1. Beppu Onsen: Explore the numerous hot springs in Beppu, known for their healing properties. Enjoy various types of baths, including mud baths, sand baths, and steam baths.

Activities:
1. Yufuin: Visit Yufuin, a picturesque hot spring town surrounded by beautiful nature. Explore the charming streets filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries. Take a relaxing walk around Lake Kinrinko and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
2. Takasakiyama Monkey Park: Head to the Takasakiyama Monkey Park, home to over 1,000 wild Japanese macaques. Observe these playful monkeys in their natural habitat and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area.

Souvenirs:
1. Local Crafts: Look for Oita's local crafts, such as pottery, ceramics, and traditional textiles. Yufuin and Oita City are known for their artistic community, offering a wide range of unique and handmade products.
2. Onsen-related Products: Purchase souvenirs related to hot springs, such as bath salts, soaps, and beauty products made with the region's natural ingredients.

These recommendations should enhance your sightseeing and travel experience in Oita, Japan. Enjoy your trip!

Oita Gourmet and Souvenir Guide

Certainly! Oita, located in the Kyushu region of Japan, offers a range of specialties, local foods, highly-rated restaurants, and popular souvenirs. Here's a detailed overview:

Specialties and Local Foods:
1. Bungo Beef: Bungo beef, also known as Oita wagyu, is a highly prized local specialty known for its marbling and tenderness. Look for restaurants serving Bungo beef steak or yakiniku (grilled meat).

2. Toriten: Toriten is a popular Oita dish made of tempura-style chicken. It features tender and juicy pieces of chicken marinated in soy sauce and ginger, coated in a light batter and deep-fried.

3. Oita Chicken: Oita is renowned for its flavorful locally raised chicken. Enjoy dishes like yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl), and chicken nabe (hot pot).

4. Kabosu: Kabosu is a citrus fruit that is native to Oita. It has a tangy and refreshing flavor and is often used in dressings, sauces, and beverages.

Highly-Rated Restaurants:

For Breakfast:
- Café Noa: A charming café in Oita City serving a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes, sandwiches, and coffee.

- Kissa Café Sakuraya: Located near Oita Station, this café offers a relaxed atmosphere and a range of breakfast choices, including Japanese-style set meals and Western-style dishes.

For Lunch:
- Ajikura Tonden: This restaurant in Beppu is renowned for its delicious Toriten (tempura-style chicken). Enjoy a variety of Toriten dishes along with other tasty menu items.

- Menya Ichimonji: A popular ramen shop in Oita City, Menya Ichimonji serves flavorful ramen with rich broth and noodles made in-house.

For Dinner:
- Uomatsu: A highly-rated seafood restaurant in Beppu, Uomatsu offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, including sashimi, grilled fish, and seafood hot pot.

- Maruhachi: Located in Oita City, Maruhachi specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine, including seasonal dishes prepared with local ingredients.

Popular Souvenirs:

1. Onsen Manju: Onsen manju, a type of steamed bun filled with sweet bean paste, is a popular souvenir in Oita. Look for varieties specific to the onsen towns you visit.

2. Kabosu Products: Bring back kabosu-related products like kabosu juice, kabosu-flavored snacks, or kabosu dressing to enjoy the unique citrus flavor at home.

3. Oita Pottery: Oita is known for its pottery traditions. Look for beautiful ceramicware, including tea sets, bowls, and vases, crafted by local artisans.

4. Yufuin Stained Glass: Yufuin, a picturesque town in Oita, is famous for its stained glass art. Consider purchasing stained glass ornaments or home decor items as souvenirs.

Remember to check the availability of these items at local shops and markets during your visit. Enjoy exploring Oita and savoring its specialties!

Seasonal festivals and events in Oita

Oita, located in the Kyushu region of Japan, offers a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some notable ones categorized by the seasons:

Spring:
1. Oita Harajiri Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in late March to early April, this festival celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms in Harajiri, a historic district in Oita. You can enjoy hanami picnics, traditional performances, and food stalls.

2. Usa Shrine Spring Grand Festival: Usa Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, holds its Spring Grand Festival in April. The festival features vibrant processions, traditional dances, and various rituals.

Summer:
1. Beppu Fireworks Festival: Taking place in late July, this annual fireworks extravaganza lights up the night sky in Beppu. Thousands of fireworks are launched, creating a breathtaking spectacle over Beppu Bay.

2. Oita Toilennale: This art festival, held from July to September, is a unique and unconventional event where artists transform public toilets into creative works of art. It adds a touch of whimsy and creativity to the city.

Fall:
1. Takasakiyama Natural Zoo Autumn Festival: Located in Oita, the Takasakiyama Natural Zoo is famous for its large population of wild Japanese macaques. The Autumn Festival, held in November, offers visitors the opportunity to observe the monkeys up close and participate in traditional ceremonies.

2. Yufuin Nogaku Festival: Yufuin, a scenic hot spring town near Oita, hosts the Nogaku Festival in November. It showcases traditional Japanese noh theater performances, providing a unique cultural experience.

Winter:
1. Oita Great Buddha Illumination: During the winter months, the Great Buddha at Usuki is illuminated, creating a stunning nighttime spectacle. The soft glow of lights highlights the intricate details of the Buddha statue.

2. Hita Gion Matsuri: Held in February, this festival in Hita City, Oita, is known for its lively processions featuring ornate floats, traditional music, and performances. It is one of the largest winter festivals in Kyushu.

Special Features:
1. Beppu Hot Springs: Oita is renowned for its hot springs, and Beppu is particularly famous for its diverse and abundant hot spring baths. You can experience a range of baths, including mud baths, sand baths, and traditional onsen, offering relaxation and therapeutic benefits.

2. Usuki Stone Buddhas: Usuki is home to a remarkable collection of stone Buddha statues carved into the cliffs. These ancient statues, some of which date back over 1,300 years, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan's history and religious heritage.

3. Yufuin: Yufuin is a charming hot spring resort town known for its picturesque landscapes and boutique shops. It offers a tranquil atmosphere, scenic walking paths, and delightful cafés and galleries.

4. Kunisaki Peninsula: The Kunisaki Peninsula, located in northern Oita, is known for its beautiful nature, ancient temples, and rural charm. It offers opportunities for hiking, exploring historical sites, and immersing yourself in the peaceful countryside.

As you plan your trip to Oita, make sure to check the specific dates and details of the festivals and events to align your visit accordingly. Enjoy your sightseeing, indulge in hot springs, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Oita!

Temperature and weather conditions in Oita

Oita is a city located in Oita Prefecture, Japan. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Oita during different seasons:

1. Spring (March to May):
In spring, Oita experiences mild and comfortable weather. The average temperature in spring ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 19°C (66°F). Cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, adding beauty to the city's landscapes. Oita is known for its natural hot springs, historical sites such as Usa Jingu Shrine, and scenic spots like Takasakiyama Monkey Park.

2. Rainy Season (June to early July):
During the rainy season, known as "Tsuyu," Oita receives increased rainfall. The weather becomes humid, and rain showers are frequent. The average temperature during this period ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). It is advisable to have an umbrella or raincoat handy when exploring Oita during this time.

3. Summer (July to September):
Summers in Oita are hot and humid. The average temperature ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (88°F). July and August are the hottest months. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and lightweight clothing. Oita offers attractions such as Beppu Hot Springs, Yufuin Onsen, and the Oita Marine Palace Aquarium.

4. Fall (October to November):
Fall in Oita is characterized by mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75°F). The foliage peaks in late October to early November, offering picturesque scenery at locations like Mount Yufu and Showa no Mori Park. It is advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

5. Winter (December to February):
Winters in Oita are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55°F). While snowfall is rare in the city, colder temperatures and occasional gusts of wind can make it feel colder. Oita is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic Kunisaki Peninsula and the Kuju Mountains.

Special Features:
1. Beppu Hot Springs: Beppu is one of Japan's most famous hot spring destinations, offering a variety of hot spring baths and unique experiences such as the "Jigoku" (Hell) hot springs, mud baths, and sand baths.

2. Yufuin Onsen: Yufuin is another popular hot spring resort town known for its tranquil atmosphere, picturesque landscapes, and charming streets lined with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques.

3. Oita Marine Palace Aquarium: Located in Oita City, this aquarium showcases various marine species, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins, and offers entertaining shows and educational exhibits.

4. Usa Jingu Shrine: Usa Jingu is a grand Shinto shrine with a long history and beautiful architecture. It is considered one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to the deity Hachiman.

Oita offers a blend of natural beauty, hot springs, cultural attractions, and historical sites, making it an exciting destination for sightseeing. Enjoy your trip to Oita!

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