Beyond Hot Springs: 12 Best Things to Do in Beppu & Yufuin for Food, Onsen & Scenic Experiences

Beppu, Oita Prefecture
Source: Canva

Oita Prefecture in Kyushu is best known for its hot springs, and for good reason—it is one of Japan’s top onsen destinations. From Singapore, Beppu and Yufuin are easily accessible via direct flights to Fukuoka or connecting flights to Oita via Tokyo or Osaka, followed by a train journey on the JR network or bus into Oita Prefecture. But beyond the steam lies a rich mix of food, scenery and culture.

In Beppu and Yufuin, volcanic landscapes meet local cuisine, from Oita Wagyu and toriten to seafood and steam-cooked jigoku-mushi dishes. Together, these two towns offer a journey that blends relaxation, nature and unforgettable flavours.

Here are 12 things to do in Beppu and Yufuin for a well-rounded Kyushu experience.

Yufuin Area
(1) Yufuin Onsen
(2) Lake Kinrin
(3) Yunotsubo Kaido
(4) Yufuin Foot Bath
(5) Yufuin Floral Village

Beppu Area
(6) Beppu Onsen and Beppu Hatto
(7) Hells of Beppu
(8) Oita’s Famous Toriten
(9) Jigoku-Mushi Cooking
(10) Oita Wagyu and Local Seafood
(11) Jumonjibaru Observatory
(12) Kyushu Wildlife Park African Safari

Yufuin: A Scenic Onsen Town Surrounded by Nature

(1) Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Town
Source: Canva

Nestled at the base of Mount Yufu, Yufuin is a peaceful hot spring town known for its natural geothermal waters and relaxed atmosphere. Staying in a traditional ryokan with an open-air bath is one of the best ways to enjoy its onsen culture.

Many ryokan in Yufuin also offer kaiseki-style meals featuring seasonal local ingredients, allowing guests to experience both hospitality and regional cuisine in one stay. The combination of mountain views and warm mineral baths makes it especially popular for couples and wellness travellers.

(2) Lake Kinrin

Source: Canva

Lake Kinrin is famous for its dreamlike morning mist, especially in cooler months when steam rises from the water’s surface. Early visits offer the most atmospheric views.

The lake is also fed by both freshwater and hot spring sources, which is why the mist appears even when the air is not extremely cold. This natural phenomenon gives the lake its almost mystical appearance throughout the year.

(3) Yunotsubo Kaido

Source: Tripadvisor

Yunotsubo Kaido is a lively street connecting Yufuin Station to Lake Kinrin and is lined with cafés, shops and food stalls. Visitors can sample local dishes such as Oita Wagyu, chicken specialties and a variety of sweets while exploring.

In addition to savoury foods, the street is also known for its creative desserts and artisanal snacks, many of which are made using local ingredients. It is a great place to experience Yufuin’s blend of traditional charm and modern café culture.

Location: Yunotsubo, Yufuinchokawakami, Yufu City, Oita 879-5102 Japan

(4) Yufuin Foot Bath

Foot bath in Yufuin train station
Source: Canva

Foot baths offer a simple way to enjoy Yufuin’s hot spring waters without a full onsen visit. They are perfect for resting tired feet during a day of walking.

Some foot baths are located outdoors with scenic views of the surrounding mountains, making them a relaxing stop even for a short break. Many are free or low-cost, making them accessible for all types of travellers.

(5) Yufuin Floral Village

Source: Yufuin Floral Village

Inspired by an English Cotswolds-style village, Yufuin Floral Village features charming buildings and photo spots, making it a fun and lighthearted stop.

This whimsical attraction also includes small themed shops and cafés, adding to its fairytale-like atmosphere. It is especially popular with families and visitors looking for Instagram-worthy scenery in Yufuin.

Location: 1503-3 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:00pm daily
Website

Beppu: Amid Rising Steam and Hot Spring Landscapes

(6) Beppu Onsen and Beppu Hatto

Source: Canva

Beppu is home to eight major hot spring areas known as Beppu Hatto. Steam rises throughout the city, reflecting its deep connection to volcanic activity and geothermal energy.

Each hot spring district has its own character, from coastal bathing areas to mountain-side resorts. Exploring them gives visitors a deeper appreciation of how onsen culture shapes daily life in Beppu.

(7) Hells of Beppu

Source: Canva

Hells of Meguri (Jigoku Meguri) showcases dramatic geothermal sites with vividly coloured hot springs, bubbling mud and geysers. Each “hell” offers a unique natural spectacle.

Beyond their visual appeal, the Hells of Beppu also highlight the raw power of the earth beneath the city. Walking between them feels like stepping through different natural worlds shaped by volcanic forces.

(8) Oita's Famous Toriten

Source: Canva

Toriten is a local chicken tempura dish with a light, crispy batter. It is a comforting and widely loved specialty in Oita.

It is often served with a citrus-based dipping sauce, which adds a refreshing contrast to the fried chicken. Simple yet satisfying, it is a must-try comfort food when visiting Beppu.

(9) Jigoku-Mushi Cooking

Source: Canva

Jigoku-Mushi is a traditional method which uses natural hot spring steam to cook ingredients in “hell kettles.” From vegetables to seafood and desserts, it highlights Beppu’s unique geothermal food culture.

Visitors can also try cooking their own ingredients at designated facilities, making it both a meal and an interactive cultural experience. The gentle steaming process preserves natural flavours while adding a subtle mineral richness.

(10) Oita Wagyu and Local Seafood

Source: Visit Oita

Oita Wagyu is premium beef sourced from the Oita Bungogyu breed and awarded a quality grade of 4 or 5. Raised in Oita's mild climate and fertile natural surroundings, it is known for its fine marbling, sweetness and rich flavour.

The beef has a full, satisfying taste with a clean finish, making it suitable for a variety of dishes, including yakiniku, steak, shabu-shabu and stir-frying with vegetables. To highlight its natural flavour, it can be served simply with salt or wasabi soy sauce.

Oita's food culture also includes fresh seafood such as Seki-aji horse mackerel and Seki-saba mackerel. Together, the region's premium beef and seafood showcase the depth and variety of Oita's cuisine.

Many restaurants in Beppu and nearby areas offer set meals and course menus featuring both land and sea ingredients, giving travellers a complete taste of the region in a single dining experience.

(11) Jumonjibaru Observatory

Source: Hoshino Resorts

Jumonjibaru Observatory offers sweeping views over Beppu and its glowing city lights, providing a striking contrast to the steam-filled streets below.

On clear nights, you can also see Beppu Bay shimmering in the distance, adding another layer of beauty to the panoramic view. A tranquil way to finish a day of sightseeing.

(12) Kyushu Wildlife Park African Safari

Source: Usa Tourist Association

Located in Usa City (near Beppu), Kyushu Wildlife Park African Safari offers wildlife encounters in a spacious natural setting, making it a great addition for families.

Visitors can observe animals from their own vehicles or safari buses, creating an immersive experience that feels closer to a real African savannah. It is a fun contrast to Beppu’s geothermal landscapes.

Location: 2-1755-1 Minamihatake, Ajimu-machi, Usa City, Oita Prefecture 872-0722 Japan
Opening hours: 8:50am - 4:00pm daily
Ticket Information
Instagram | Website

Beyond Hot Springs: Discover the Flavours of Oita

Beppu and Yufuin are more than onsen towns—they are places where geothermal energy shapes daily life, from bathing to cooking. Paired with Oita’s Wagyu, chicken dishes and fresh seafood, they offer a journey that blends nature, flavour and relaxation.

What lingers most for many visitors is how naturally hot springs are integrated into everyday life—from steam-cooked meals to misty lakes and mountain views, creating a sensory experience that stays with you long after you leave.

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