How long should I spend in Beppu and how do I get here?
Tips for best enjoying this historic onsen town
How long should I spend in Beppu, and how do I get there?
This is a good question! The duration of your stay in Beppu and how you get here will depend on what you want to get out of your visit, based on your interests, the activities you want to experience and how long you can make for a visit here. Of course, we would say that the longer you spend here, the deeper you will understand this marvellous town, but here are are some suggestions to help you plan your trip to Beppu:
Short Visit (1 night, up to 2 days)
If you’re on a tight schedule, you can still experience some of Beppu’s highlights in a day or two.
This might include visiting a few onsen hot springs, exploring the jigoku (‘hell’) hot springs, enjoying a traditional meal, and taking a stroll through the city’s scenic areas. We suggest a stay at a local inn or hotel near the station.
Moderate Visit (2-3 days)
With a few extra days, you can immerse yourself more fully in Beppu’s culture. You’ll have time to try different onsen, visit art galleries, explore local markets, and perhaps take day trips to nearby attractions. Maybe even take in a number of our tours!
Full Visit (3 days or longer)
If you have more time, you can thoroughly explore Beppu and its surrounding areas.
This allows you to take part in workshops, immerse yourself in the food and drink culture of the town, venture into the nearby countryside (affording other excellent castle and onsen towns), and enjoy a more relaxed pace with hot spring after hot spring.
Getting to Beppu
Beppu is accessible by various modes of transport:
Air: the nearest major airport to Beppu is Oita Airport (OIT), which is about a 40-minute drive from Beppu. From Oita Airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the city.
Train: Beppu is well-connected by train. You can take a train from major cities like Fukuoka or Kumamoto to Beppu Station.
Bus: long-distance buses also connect Beppu to other cities in Kyushu and beyond. Buses are often a cost-effective option for travel for those on a limited budget.
Car Rental: if you prefer flexibility and want to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is also a convenient option. Beppu is well-connected by roads, and having a car can make it easier to reach more remote attractions.