When you think of Beppu, the first thing that probably comes to mind is onsen.
But step away from the steam for a while,
and you’ll find something just as soothing; the quiet joy of creating art with one's own hands.
In Minami-Beppu (southern Beppu), tucked away among the neighbourhood's cosy, local cafes,
Space Beppu offers hands-on art workshops in which you can fully express yourself, whilst meeting passionate creators and connecting with the town in a more meaningful way.
Here are 3 of our favourite art-&-craft-related things to try:
1. Paint with Higashi Tomoe
– A Local Artist's Touch
Higashi Tomoe is more than an artist - she’s a storyteller who encourages you to find your own voice through colour.
In her workshop, there’s no pressure to be 'good at' art. It’s all about expressing a feeling, a moment, or even just having fun splashing paint across the page.
Her gentle guidance helps even first-timers feel relaxed and inspired. Plus, her stories about life as an artist in Beppu add a personal layer to the experience. 🎨
2. Learn the Flow of Calligraphy
More than just beautiful writing, Japanese calligraphy (shodō) is a way to focus, slow down, and be present in the moment.
In this session, you’ll learn from a professional calligraphy teacher who'll walk you through each stroke with patience and care.
Besides being a peaceful, meditative experience, you'll get to take your finished piece home with you! 🖌️
3. Hot Spring Water Dyeing
A truly 'Beppu-only experience', this workshop uses genuine hot spring water to dye fabric. The minerals in the onsen water affect the colours in unique ways, creating soft and earthy tones.
You’ll fold, dip, and transform plain fabric into something personal and beautiful.
It’s a hands-on way to connect with Beppu’s natural gifts - and you’ll leave with a handmade souvenir that carries with it the warmth of the town. ♨️
✨ Coming up next: the crafty part! Bamboo, wood & more!
GLIDE JAPAN Inc.
Mission
As ambassadors of our region, we connect local communities with the world, paving the way for a prosperous future.
Vision
Our goal is to become Japan’s leading engine of regional revitalisation, making it a norm to attract young people to rural areas, driven by their dreams.
| Company Name | Glide Japan Inc. |
| CEO | Masahiro Ide |
| Capital | ¥1,000,000 |
| Established | April 20, 2023 |
| Number of Employees | 12 (including contractors) |
| Head Office | 12-9 Chiyomachi, Beppu City, Oita 874-0942, Japan |
| Phone | +81-977-75-9566 |
| Australia Office (Satellite Office) | 421/4 Spring Street, Rosebery, NSW 2018, Australia |
| Business Activities | Inbound tourism consulting, travel arrangement services for international visitors, regional revitalisation projects, multilingual translation, video production, and more. |
Stay tuned to our Social Media for more!
