Oita

Known as the ‘Hells of Beppu,’ these seven spectacular geothermal pools are for viewing rather than bathing. From milky blue waters to bubbling red mud, they offer a mesmerizing and powerful look at the volcanic energy simmering just beneath the surface.

Step back in time at this iconic bathhouse, housed in a magnificent wooden building from the Meiji era. While the traditional baths are lovely, the real draw here is the unique sand bath, where you are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand for a deeply relaxing experience.

For the best views in the region, hop on this cable car as it climbs the slopes of Mount Tsurumi. As you ascend, the city of Beppu unfolds below you, framed by the sparkling sea and the rugged, steam-vented mountains of the interior.

This small lake is the heart of Yufuin’s natural beauty. Because both cold and hot springs flow into it, a mystical mist often dances across the surface on cool mornings, making it a dream for photographers and morning walkers alike.

A delightful pedestrian-friendly avenue perfect for a slow stroll. It’s lined with charming wooden buildings housing artisanal craft shops, cozy tea rooms, and stalls selling delicious local snacks like honey-infused sweets and savory croquettes.

The ‘Mount Fuji of Oita,’ this distinctive twin-peaked mountain dominates the skyline. It offers rewarding hiking trails for those looking for an active morning, providing sweeping panoramas of the lush valley below.

Home to the oldest wooden structure in Kyushu, this serene temple is a masterpiece of Heian-period architecture. The main hall sits quietly amidst the trees, radiating an atmosphere of profound peace and historical weight.

Located near the peninsula’s central peak, this sprawling temple complex is guarded by two impressive stone Nio statues. It served as a key training ground for ascetic monks and remains one of the most atmospheric pilgrimage sites in Japan.

After a short but steep climb up a path made of natural stones, you’ll find these colossal Buddha figures carved directly into a massive cliff face. They are among the largest and oldest rock carvings in the country, leaving visitors in awe of the ancient craftsmen.

These stunning figures, carved into volcanic rock between the 12th and 14th centuries, are the only rock-carved Buddhas in Japan to be designated as National Treasures. Their serene expressions and intricate details are truly world-class.

Once a grand fortress built on an island, the remaining stone walls and gates now sit atop a hill overlooking the town. It’s a peaceful spot for a walk, offering lovely views and a glimpse into the region’s feudal history.

A must-visit for fans of the epic series. Since the creator of Attack on Titan was born here, this museum showcases original sketches, personal items, and immersive exhibits that bring the world of the Titans to life.

This impressive dam serves as a dramatic backdrop for statues of the series’ main characters. Looking up at the massive wall, you can truly feel the scale and atmosphere that inspired the creator to envision his world of walled cities.

Often called the ‘Oriental Niagara,’ this wide, horseshoe-shaped waterfall sits unexpectedly in the middle of a flat, rural landscape. A suspension bridge and surrounding walking paths offer panoramic views of the falls from every angle, making it a dream for photographers.

Spanning the high plains with the Kuju Mountains as a backdrop, this massive park is a kaleidoscope of color. Depending on when you visit, you might walk through fields of spring tulips, summer lavender, or autumn cosmos, all set against a stunning alpine horizon.

Located on the forested slopes overlooking the sea, this park is home to hundreds of wild Japanese macaques. Unlike a traditional zoo, the monkeys roam freely, allowing you to observe their complex social lives and playful antics up close in their natural habitat.

This tranquil lake is famous for its ethereal beauty. Fed by both hot and cold springs, it creates a unique microclimate where mist frequently rolls across the mirror-like water, surrounded by lush trees and charming traditional architecture.

The iconic silhouette of Mount Yufu is more than just a backdrop—it’s a hiker’s paradise. The trails are well-marked and approachable, leading you up to twin peaks that reward the effort with breathtaking, 360-degree views of the Yufuin Valley and beyond.

A dramatic headland that juts into the sea, where the blue of the ocean meets vast fields of vibrant seasonal flowers. It’s a place of incredible contrast, especially when the spring canola or summer sunflowers are in full bloom against the rugged coastline.

This secluded forested gorge is a refreshing escape, particularly in the summer heat. Crystal-clear waters wind through weathered rock formations and ancient trees, with easy walking paths that let you soak in the cool, mossy atmosphere.

Step into a living museum where the rhythmic sound of water-powered wooden hammers echoes through the valley. For over 300 years, families here have used the same traditional techniques to create beautiful, functional pottery, making it a must-visit for lovers of authentic craft.

A stunning piece of contemporary architecture that acts as a ‘living room’ for the city. Inside, you’ll find a mix of modern installations and regional masterpieces, providing a sophisticated and calm environment to explore Oita’s artistic side.

As the head shrine for thousands of Hachiman shrines across Japan, this site holds immense spiritual importance. Its vermillion buildings are set deep within a vast, ancient forest, offering a quiet, majestic atmosphere for a contemplative stroll.