Last updated on May 29, 2026 by Krysti
Planning out an itinerary for Beppu? It’s easy to assume this city is all about hot springs — until you actually spend two days exploring it!
Known as the Onsen Capital of Japan, Beppu is home to one of the highest concentrations of hot springs in the world.
In fact, it has more hot springs than any other city in Japan, making it a true paradise for onsen lovers.
But these famous baths – including the colorful Hells of Beppu – aren’t the only appeal here.
From scenic ocean views and peaceful bamboo forests to local wildlife and incredible regional cuisine, Beppu offers far more variety than most travelers expect.
And with the charming town of Yufuin just a short drive away, it’s easy to add even more memorable experiences to your trip.
As a matter of fact, Beppu has been on my radar since moving to Japan, and while it took me about a year to finally visit, it was absolutely worth the wait.
With so much to do and see, Beppu is one of those destinations that is sure to surprise you, just as it did for me!
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and discover the perfect 2-day Beppu itinerary.
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Planning a last-minute trip to Beppu?
Here are a few quick recommendations for you!
I suggest booking these services and activities in advance!
🚅 Getting There:
– Bullet Train Tickets (Individual tickets & rail passes available)
– Private Airport Transfers (Door-to-door service)
🛏️ Hotels:
– Super Hotel Beppu Ekimae (Mid-range hotel near the train station)
👣 Activities & Tours:
– 7 Hells of Beppu (Discounted combo pass for all 7 hot springs)
– Guided Tours of Beppu (Explore the city with a local guide)
Best Time to Visit Beppu
Winter is actually a great time to visit Beppu.
While you can visit Beppu at any time of the year, the city is best experienced during the fall and winter months.
This is when you can expect to encounter fewer crowds and mild temperatures – even in the depths of winter, it doesn’t get too cold here.
That said, if you do happen to feel a bit chilly, you can simply visit an onsen. The natural hot springs of Beppu are perfect for warming up on a cold wintery day.
Aside from this, spring is another great time to visit Beppu, especially during cherry blossom season.
Just keep in mind, this is also one of the busiest times of the year for travel in Japan.
And finally, we have summer, which, honestly, I don’t really recommend unless you have no other option.
Summer in Japan is hot to begin with – add in the constant steam and heat from the hot springs, and Beppu can become quite unbearably warm.
Beppu Itinerary: A Quick Overview
Before we break down the full Beppu itinerary, here’s a quick recap – in case you’re short on time! This itinerary assumes you have 2 full days in Beppu, so it’s best to arrive either the night before or early in the morning on day 1.
Day 1: Beppu City Highlights
- 🌋 Discover the 7 Hells of Beppu
- 🍽️ Sample hell-steamed cuisine
- ♨️ Experience a local Beppu onsen
- 🏯 Visit Kifune Castle
Day 2: Beyond Beppu
- 🌿 Explore Beppu Park or Takasakiyama Monkey Park
- 🚌 Travel to Yufuin
- 🌸 Discover the Floral Village & Yunotsubo Street
- 🏞️ Visit Lake Kinrin
Beppu, Japan Map
To help you plan your trip, I’ve also included a map overview of all the places mentioned in this Beppu itinerary.
➡️ Click here to view an interactive version of this map!
Beppu Itinerary: Explained
On that note, let’s jump right in and discuss in detail the perfect 2 day itinerary for Beppu. I’ve included numerous options for you to consider, as well as some alternative attractions. Feel free to pick and choose and adapt this itinerary as you see fit!
Day 1: Beppu City Highlights
The first day of your Beppu itinerary will center around the city’s most famous destinations. I recommend that you spend your morning exploring the Beppu Hells. Then, depending on how much time you have left over, you can experience some of the city’s other activities.
Morning: Explore the 7 Hells of Beppu
Beppu’s Jigoku, also known as Beppu’s Hells, are seven geothermal hot springs located within the city center.
The star attraction of Beppu, these springs are not open for bathing, but instead are available for viewing – and for good reason, many of them are absolutely gorgeous.
You can visit them all or just a few, it’s up to you! Either way, here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:
- Umi Jigoku: Known as the “Sea Hell,” this hot spring features bright blue waters, an abundance of steam, and its own set of torii gates.
- Oniishibozu Jigoku: Dubbed the “Shaven Monk’s Head Hell,” this hot spring contains several pools of gray bubbling mud, as well as a serene and relaxing foot bath.
- Kamado Jigoku: Called “Cooking Pot Hell,” this hot spring includes several brightly colored hot springs, as well as small food stalls where you can sample hell-steamed cuisine.
- Oniyama Jigoku: Appropriately named “Crocodile Hell,” this spring is home to its own group of crocodiles and features a very steamy hot spring pond.
- Shiraike Jigoku: Known as the “White Pond Hell,” this hot spring features a milky blue/white pond and a serene, peaceful garden.
- Chinoike Jigoku: Dubbed the “Blood Pond Hell,” this hot spring is home to a large red-orange pond and features its own extensive souvenir shop.
- Tatsumaki Jigoku: Called “Tornado Hell,” this hot spring isn’t a pond, but rather a geyser that erupts every 30-40 minutes.
I personally visited all seven of the hells. However, in hindsight, I don’t think it’s necessary to do so. If I were to do it all over again, I’d probably just pick the ones that interest me the most.
That said, there is a discounted pass available for those who’d like to see them all. This pass allows for one-time entry into all seven hells of Beppu.
Why It’s Worth It: The hells are incredibly vibrant and unlike anything else you’ll find in Japan! While you don’t need to visit all seven, I highly recommend Umi Jigoku (my favorite!), Shiraike Jigoku, Oniishibozu Jigoku, and Chinoike Jigoku.
🌟 Interested in learning more about Beppu’s hot springs? Check out my full guide to the 7 Hells of Beppu!
Lunch: Sample Hell-Steamed Cuisine
No trip to Beppu is complete without sampling some of the city’s hell-steamed cuisine.
Using steam from the local hot springs, vendors and restaurants cook a variety of food that you can try.
From corn on the cob to hard-boiled eggs, seafood, chicken, pork buns, and a variety of vegetables, the options here are endless.
You can sample this unique cuisine at many of the hells and from vendors along the streets of Beppu.
Or, if you’d prefer to have a sit-down meal, head on over to Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa.
Situated near Shiraike Jigoku, this restaurant specializes in hell-steamed cuisine and offers a plethora of meals for you to choose from.
Just be aware, it is quite popular, so it’s best to get there early. Otherwise, you may end up waiting a while!
Why It’s Worth It: Hell-steamed cuisine isn’t just tasty – it’s a fun and unique way to experience Beppu’s onsen culture!
Early Afternoon: Experience a Local Onsen
Now that you’ve seen a few onsens, it’s time to hop in and experience one for yourself!
There are several bathing facilities spread throughout the city that you can try. However, the one that I recommend is Hyotan Onsen, Japan’s one and only three-star Michelin onsen.
Here, you’ll find a variety of experiences to choose from, including public spring baths, waterfall baths, steam baths, private baths, and sand baths.
If it’s your first time visiting an onsen in Japan, I recommend booking a private bath, if one is available.
Public baths in Japan are divided by gender and are clothing-free (no, you can’t even wear a bathing suit). So it can be quite an adjustment to make if you’re not used to walking around au naturel.
While you are still expected to remain unclothed in a private bath, you’ll at least be by yourself or with your family/friends, if you so choose.
Why It’s Worth It: Onsens are incredibly relaxing and peaceful! It’s the perfect way to unwind, take a break, and embrace the local hot spring culture.
💡 Pro Tip: If you choose to take a sand bath, please keep in mind that it’s connected to the public bathing area. Once you’re done in the sand, you’ll need to rinse off in the communal onsen – which means following the usual clothing-free etiquette. I didn’t know this when I visited, and it was quite the surprise! 😅
Late Afternoon: Visit Kifune Castle
If you have time to spare at the end of your day, head on over to Kifune Castle.
Recently restored and rebuilt in 1957, the castle overlooks Beppu and offers incredible views of the city.
You can take a guided tour to learn more about the castle and meet its official guardian – an albino python.
Tours are required to enter the castle, and they are offered in both English and Japanese.
Why It’s Worth It: The views alone are reason enough to visit Kifune Castle. From here, you can see the city of Beppu, the surrounding mountains, and the coastline!
Day 2: Beyond Beppu
Today, you’ll venture beyond the city center to explore the outskirts of Beppu and the nearby town of Yufuin. Since many of the attractions in Yufuin don’t open until later in the morning, I suggest beginning your day at Beppu Park and/or Beppu Monkey Park before heading to Yufuin.
Early Morning: Stroll Through Beppu Park
Spanning 27 hectares, Beppu Park is a large public green space that is home to a variety of greenery and attractions.
Here, you’ll find several tennis courts, walking trails, art installations, historical monuments, gardens, and forest groves.
The area is especially known for its cherry blossom and plum trees, which explode with color during the spring months.
We also can’t forget about the bamboo forest that lies just within the park. While small, it’s a great alternative to the more touristy Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto.
Why It’s Worth It: This peaceful park offers the chance to see a quieter side of the city. Plus, the bamboo forest is surprisingly fun to explore – we took so many pictures here!
Mid-Morning: Visit the Monkeys at Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden
Also known as Beppu’s Monkey Park, Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden is a nature reserve where troops of wild Japanese macaque monkeys (aka snow monkeys) gather each day.
These monkeys actually live in the mountains surrounding Beppu, but come down to the park during the day to hang out and eat treats provided by the staff.
The park was originally created to reduce conflict with local farmers after the monkeys began raiding nearby crops.
Today, three troops of monkeys live in the mountains, though only two of them regularly go to the park – typically one visits in the morning and the other in the afternoon.
Because the monkeys here are completely wild, it’s important to be mindful during your visit. They will often run close to visitors, but you should never touch or feed them.
Visitors are also advised to avoid direct eye contact, as this can sometimes trigger aggressive behavior.
Why It’s Worth It: The monkeys are so cute – especially the babies!! It’s such a fun and memorable experience.
🌟 Looking for more monkey encounters? Be sure to also check out the Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, where the monkeys famously bathe in hot springs! 🐒♨️
Early Afternoon: Discover Yufuin’s Floral Village
Situated 35 kilometers inland from Beppu lies Yufuin, a small town known for its private onsens and fairytale-like attractions.
In fact, the town’s most famous destination is its Floral Village, which was influenced by Harry Potter.
All of the buildings in this mini theme park are actually molded after the English Cotswold village that was featured in the movies.
In addition to its magical ambiance, you’ll find a number of shops, cafes, and even an on-site hotel all within the village.
Why It’s Worth It: The village is whimsical, charming, and super cute. Plus, there are tons of great photo spots to take advantage of!
Mid-Afternoon: Shop For Souvenirs Along Yunotsubo Street
If you’d like to bring home some Japanese souvenirs, then be sure to check out Yunotsubo Street.
Traveling through the center of town, Yunotsubo is the main shopping street in Yufuin.
Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and more.
Many of the stores offer regional specialty products from the Oita Prefecture, but you can also find traditional Japanese souvenirs as well.
Regardless of what you’re looking for, it’s a great spot to pick up some gifts for yourself or your loved ones back home.
Why It’s Worth It: It’s the perfect place to browse local souvenirs and try a variety of regional snacks. Be sure to sample the toriten (aka chicken tempura), it’s my favorite!
Late Afternoon: Go For a Walk Around Lake Kinrin
Made famous for the morning mist that rolls off of it, Lake Kinrin is a small but scenic body of water.
Fed by hot springs from below and freshwater from the mountains, the lake is a unique natural phenomenon – one that tends to be warmer than expected year-round.
There’s a walking trail that travels around the length of the lake, as well as several benches and viewing points.
Meanwhile, around the back end of the lake, you’ll find a small shrine. Be sure to walk behind it and check out the floating torii gate that sits just offshore.
Why It’s Worth It: The lake is calm, scenic, and incredibly peaceful. It’s a beautiful spot for a short walk and a relaxing way to wrap up your trip!
One Day in Beppu
Short on time? Even with just one day in Beppu, it’s still possible to experience many of the city’s highlights. I recommend focusing on the hot springs in the morning, then choosing an afternoon activity that interests you most.
Here’s my suggested itinerary for a Beppu day trip:
☀️ Morning: Visit the 7 Hells of Beppu
It takes about 4 hours to visit all seven hells. So, depending on when you arrive, you may be able to see them all in the morning. That said, it’s not necessary. Since you’re short on time, I recommend choosing 3-4 that interest you the most to focus on.
🍽️ Lunch: Sample the Local Hell-Steamed Cuisine
For lunch, try Beppu’s famous hell-steamed cuisine. You can grab something quick from a street vendor or enjoy a sit-down meal at a nearby restaurant.
♨️ Afternoon: Relax at a Local Onsen
After lunch, head to a local onsen for some well-deserved relaxation. There are plenty to choose from in Beppu, whether you prefer a public bath or a private experience.
🐒 Alternative Afternoon Activity: Explore Beppu’s Zoological Garden
If onsens aren’t your thing, then head over to the Zoological Garden to see Beppu’s wild macaque monkeys. It’s a bit out of the way, but doable if you dedicate the afternoon to it.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re hoping to visit Beppu and Yufuin in one day, your best bet is to join a guided tour. Most provide transportation to and from Fukuoka, which simplifies the logistics. Just keep in mind that many tours focus primarily on the Hells of Beppu, leaving little time for other attractions in the city.
Other Things to Do in Beppu
View from Beppu Ropeway.
Interested in adjusting this Beppu itinerary? Or maybe you’re contemplating a longer stay? If so, consider visiting some of these other popular attractions as well!
- Beppu Ropeway: The largest sky tram in Kyushu, the Beppu Ropeway travels 1300 meters above sea level to the summit of Mount Tsurumi. Known as a Shinto pilgrimage site, the mountaintop is home to a number of religious shrines and statues, as well as several lookout points.
- Jigoku Onsen Museum: Situated in Kannawa District, this hell hot spring museum offers a glimpse into the history of Beppu’s onsens. Here, you’ll learn about the creation of the onsens and will discover the significant role they play in Japanese culture.
- Onbara Falls: A hidden gem located just outside of Beppu, Onbara Falls is a stunning cascading waterfall. While you’ll need a car to reach the trailhead, the hike to the falls is only about a mile-long round trip.
- Aso-Kuju National Park: A small section of Aso-Kuju National Park lies between Beppu and Yufuin, encompassing Mount Yufu and Mount Tsurumi. Here, you’ll find several hiking trails that offer incredible views of the mountains and the surrounding countryside.
- Hachiman Kamado Shrine: Believed by some to be connected to the famous “Demon Slayer” anime, Hachiman Kamado is a historic shrine that dates back to 727. Situated on the outskirts of the city, the shrine offers great views of Beppu and Beppu Bay.
- Kijima Kogen Park: Located along the slopes of Mount Tsurumi, Kijima Kogen is a popular and scenic amusement park. Here, you’ll find a variety of rides, including Japan’s very first wooden roller coaster.
- Oita Fragrance Museum: Focused on the history of perfumes, the Oita Fragrance Museum offers a look into the development and use of fragrances throughout time. In addition, visitors can join an interactive class where they can create their very own perfumes and signature scents.
🌟 Spending more time in Kyushu? Be sure to also check out my Kyushu itinerary, which includes stops in Beppu as well as Fukuoka and Nagasaki!
How to Get to Beppu
Beppu is located along the northeastern coast of Kyushu Island in Oita Prefecture.
While it may feel a bit removed from Japan’s larger urban centers, it’s still quite accessible.
In fact, the city is home to its own transit hub, Beppu Station. And, there is even a small international airport nearby, Oita Airport (OIT).
How to Get to Beppu From Fukuoka
Fukuoka is the most common gateway to Beppu, with direct train service connecting the two cities.
From Hakata Station, you can reach Beppu Station in about 2 hours via the JR Sonic Limited Express train.
How to Get to Beppu from Oita Airport
Most visitors traveling from Oita Airport to Beppu take the airport limousine bus, which offers direct service to Beppu Station.
The journey takes about an hour, making it the most convenient option for those traveling by public transit.
How to Get Around Beppu
Buses are common in Beppu.
If possible, I recommend renting a car or relying on taxis while you’re in Beppu.
Although public transportation is available, it’s mostly limited to buses.
On top of that, many of the city’s attractions are spread out, so transit times can take longer than expected.
That said, the local bus network is reliable, and it will get you to all of the destinations mentioned in this itinerary – even the nearby town of Yufuin.
If you plan to utilize the buses in Beppu, it’s best to get an IC card, which is a prepaid transportation pass. These can be purchased at most major train stations and airports.
I also recommend downloading Google Maps to help you navigate your way around the city (whether by bus or car).
It’s one of the most useful apps for traveling in Japan, providing accurate, real-time transit information.
💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to drive while in Japan, be sure to obtain an International Driver’s Permit before you arrive!
Where to Stay in Beppu
The area around Beppu Station is a great place to stay.
The city of Beppu is much smaller compared to other destinations in Japan, so you won’t have as many options when it comes to accommodations. But those that are available are comfortable, convenient, unique, and affordably priced. That being said, here are some of the most popular places to stay in Beppu.
- Beppu Station: Situated in the heart of the city, the area around Beppu Station is home to numerous hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Offering a chill, laid-back vibe, it’s not your typical city center.
- Kannawa: Encompassing five of Beppu’s seven hells, Kannawa is a great place to stay if you’d like to have easy access to the city’s onsens. Here, you’ll find a variety of accommodations, including high-end hotels, traditional ryokans, and Airbnb rentals.
- Yufuin: Offering a quieter and calmer atmosphere, Yufuin is a great option if you’d prefer to escape the crowds. On top of this, it’s home to several hotels and Airbnbs that come with their own private onsens.
🧳 My Experience: We stayed at Super Hotel Beppu Ekimae and loved the location! It’s just steps from Beppu Station, with plenty of local restaurants and cafes nearby.
What to Eat in Beppu
Ramen with gyoza and Japanese fried rice.
While hell-steamed food is a must-try for anyone visiting Beppu – at least for the experience alone – the city also offers a number of delectable regional cuisines that you can sample. Here are a few of my favorites!
- Toriten: Also known as chicken tempura, toriten is a regional dish popular in Oita Prefecture. Flavored, battered, and deep-fried, these chicken bites are incredibly flavorful and delicious.
- Toriten Soba: Toriten soba is exactly what you think it is – soba noodles served with chicken tempura. It’s a unique combination that you won’t find in many other places.
- Kabosu: Kabosu is a local citrus fruit native to Beppu and Oita Prefecture. It’s typically mixed into dressings and marinades and served with a variety of traditional Japanese dishes.
- Seafood: Given the city’s location along the coast, it should come as no surprise to hear that Beppu is home to some pretty amazing seafood. From sushi to shrimp, clams, crabs, and oysters, you can find just about everything here!
- Ramen: As it is throughout most of Japan, the ramen in Beppu is amazing! It’s the perfect dish to have after exploring the city on a cold winter day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Beppu Itinerary
Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about visiting Beppu.
What is Beppu, Japan Known For?
One word: onsens! Beppu is the Onsen Capital of Japan and for good reason – it’s home to nearly 3,000 hot springs. In fact, there’s only one other place in the world that has a higher concentration of hot spring water, and that’s Yellowstone National Park in the United States. Visitors to Beppu have the opportunity not only to view these stunningly vibrant hot springs, but they can also bathe in some of them as well.
Is Beppu Worth Visiting?
Yes, Beppu is absolutely worth visiting! It’s one of the most unique destinations in Japan, known for its incredible geothermal activity and thriving onsen culture. Beyond its famous hot springs, the city offers a mix of scenic landscapes, relaxing spa-like experiences, and unique attractions. And, with the charming town of Yufuin nearby, it’s easy to turn a visit into a well-rounded getaway!
How Many Days Is Enough for Beppu?
Based on my experience, 2-3 days in Beppu is the perfect amount of time to take in the city’s highlights. Not only will you be able to visit the most popular attractions, but you’ll also have time to stop by the nearby city of Yufuin and sample a variety of local cuisine.
Is It Better to Stay in Beppu or Yufuin?
Either is a great option to consider. I personally really enjoyed staying in the city of Beppu, because there are a lot of restaurants, bars, and cafes within walking distance – especially near Beppu Station. Attractions are also easier and more convenient to reach. However, Yufuin is home to a large number of Airbnbs, many of which come with their own private onsens.
Do I Need a Car in Beppu?
If possible, I do recommend renting a car when visiting Beppu. While you can get around with public transit, it’s easier and much more convenient when you have your own means of transportation. Alternatively, you can also rely on taxis and supplement them with public buses to help cut down on expenses.
What Is the Difference Between an Onsen and a Hot Spring?
While some believe that “onsen” is merely the Japanese word for “hot spring,” it’s a little bit more complicated than that. Yes, an onsen is a hot spring, but it’s a hot spring that meets certain requirements. Generally speaking, in order to be considered an onsen, a hot spring must reach at least 77°F (25°C), and it must contain a specified amount of certain beneficial minerals, such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. That said, many people (myself included!) use the terms interchangeably.
Final Thoughts: Beppu Itinerary
So there you have it – my recommendations for 2 days in Beppu! Hopefully, this guide is helpful in planning your own trip to the Onsen Capital of Japan.
Regardless of what you decide to do, you’re bound to have an amazing time! After all, Beppu is an unforgettable destination – one that offers a truly unique glimpse into Japan’s onsen culture!
Are you planning your own Beppu itinerary? What are you most excited to do? Let me know in the comments below!
Enjoy this Beppu itinerary? Pin it now for later!
KRYSTI ATKINSON
Krysti is a travel writer currently based in Okinawa, Japan. Over the past 3+ years, she has explored Japan extensively while traveling throughout Asia – from iconic cities to quiet, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Through Wanderful Horizons, Krysti shares detailed itineraries, practical travel tips, and firsthand recommendations to help travelers plan unforgettable adventures.
תודה רבה 🙂 עזרת לי מאוד! אני כאן עכשיו!
You’re welcome! I hope you enjoy your time in Beppu!!
This is exactly the kind of guide and tips I’ve been looking for! Thank you for such a helpful guide
You’re welcome! I’m glad you found it helpful!
Just searching to plan where what how for recommendation city to visit in Japan, came across your articles, i found it’s very very very helpful. Definitely will use your guidance for our trips. Thank you.
You’re most welcome – I’m happy to help! Feel free to reach and ask any question you may have as you plan your trip!