Oita Prefecture, known as Japan’s premier “onsen kingdom,” boasts the highest number of hot spring sources and the greatest volume of natural outflow in the country. Among its many treasures, Beppu and Yufuin stand out as two distinct yet equally beloved hot spring destinations. Beppu is a dynamic hot spring city where steam rises dramatically into the sky, while Yufuin offers a tranquil highland retreat where art and nature blend in quiet harmony. A three-day, two-night journey through both places promises a refined and deeply satisfying onsen experience—one that soothes both body and soul.
Day 1: Sensing the Power of Hot Springs on Beppu’s “Hell Tour”
Your journey begins at JR Beppu Station, where steam rising from every corner of the town instantly sets the tone for an unforgettable onsen experience. The first stop is Beppu’s iconic “Jigoku Meguri,” or “Hell Tour”—a unique circuit of geothermal wonders that, while too hot for bathing, allow visitors to witness the raw energy of the Earth up close.
Highlights include Umi Jigoku, a striking cobalt-blue hot spring that seems almost otherworldly, as well as Oniishibozu Jigoku and Chinoike Jigoku, each with their own dramatic character. All are within walking distance, making it easy to stroll leisurely between them and take in the sights and sounds of this steamy, volcanic landscape.
For a local culinary treat, try a jigoku mushi cooking experience. This traditional method uses natural hot spring steam to cook vegetables, eggs, and more—producing healthy, flavorful dishes that make for a memorable taste of Beppu.
In the evening, stay in Beppu’s historic onsen district. The Kannawa area is especially recommended, where time-honored ryokan and bathhouses envelop guests in soothing steam and the faint scent of sulfur. It’s the perfect way to relax and reconnect with the healing heart of Japan’s onsen culture.
Day 2: Over Mt. Yufu to Yufuin — An Onsen Town of Nature and Art
After breakfast, head to Yufuin by car or aboard the scenic Yufuin no Mori express train. As you travel along routes that offer sweeping views of Mount Yufu, the journey itself becomes a highlight—an ever-changing panorama of natural beauty that sets the tone for the day.
In the heart of Yufuin lies Yunotsubo Kaidō, a charming walking street lined with stylish cafés, artisan shops, and cozy galleries. Nearby, sites like Bussan-ji Temple and Kinrinko Lake take on a mystical allure in the morning mist, offering picture-perfect moments steeped in tranquility.
Art lovers will find inspiration at the Yufuin Stained Glass Museum, Artegio, and a variety of contemporary galleries that reflect the town’s quiet sophistication. Though known as a hot spring destination, Yufuin is equally a place of culture and creative energy, where one’s senses are gently awakened.
Spend the night at a secluded ryokan featuring private open-air baths in every room, or indulge in a kaiseki dinner crafted from local seasonal ingredients. With the fresh mountain air and calm of this highland village, the evening promises a deeply restful and soul-nourishing experience.
Day 3: One Last Immersion in Onsen and Local Flavors
Begin your final day with an early morning stroll. At Kinrinko Lake, you may catch a magical scene—mist rising gently from the water on a clear day, creating a serene and dreamlike start to the morning. To savor the end of your journey, indulge once more in Yufuin’s local delights, from relaxing footbath cafés to handmade gelato and a hearty lunch featuring tender Yufuin beef.
If time allows, try your hand at a local pottery workshop or a sweet-making experience—perfect for creating lasting memories of your trip. In the afternoon, make your way back toward Beppu or Oita Airport, carrying with you the warmth, flavors, and quiet beauty of Oita’s onsen culture.
A Luxurious Stillness Beneath the Steam — The Essence of Oita
Feel the Earth’s raw energy in Beppu, encounter heartfelt connections and culture in Yufuin, and above all, find healing in the embrace of hot spring waters. This two-night, three-day journey through Oita is more than just an onsen getaway—it’s a time to realign, to pause, and to quietly reconnect with yourself. On your next holiday, why not surrender to the soothing waters and serene landscapes of Oita, and let its gentle rhythm guide you back to balance.