Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Ōita, Ōita, Japan
1. Beppu Onsen Town
Famous hot spring town offering various bathing experiences, including the unique 'sand bath'.
- Hot Springs Galore: Over 2000 hot spring sources in Beppu make it a spa paradise.
- Sand Bath Experience: A unique therapeutic experience where you bury yourself in hot sand.
- Nightlife and Cuisine: Enjoy local cuisine and nightlife in the vibrant Beppu onsen town.
2. Yufuin
A picturesque village known for its traditional architecture, hot springs, and scenic beauty.
- Artistic Atmosphere: Home to numerous art museums and galleries.
- Scenic Beauty: Famous for its cherry blossom and autumn foliage season.
- Cultural Experiences: Traditional tea houses, workshops, and events offer insights into Japanese culture.
3. Takachiho Gorge
A stunning natural gorge featuring steep cliffs and waterfalls in a lush forest setting.
- Natural Wonders: Home to the iconic Manai Falls, one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls.
- Spiritual Significance: Legendary as the entrance to the Dragon Palace of Ryūjin, the dragon deity of the sea.
- Hiking Trails: Offers beautiful hiking trails and boat tours along the gorge.
4. Kobo-san
An active volcano offering hiking trails, onsen, and breathtaking views.
- Active Volcano Experience: One of the few places in Japan where you can hike an active volcano.
- Onsen with a View: Enjoy hot springs with panoramic views of the Aso caldera.
- Unique Wildlife: Home to various wildlife species unique to volcanic environments.
5. Saiki Onsen Town
A quiet onsen town with a charming atmosphere and traditional hot springs.
- Traditional Onsen Experience: Small, family-run hot spring inns offer a traditional experience.
- Seasonal Scenery: Scenic beauty changes with each season, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves.
- Nearby Shrines and Temples: Visit local shrines and temples for a cultural experience.
6. Usuki Taketomi-jima
An island showcasing traditional architecture, stone streets, and unique pottery.
- Traditional Architecture: Preserved traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
- Stone Streets: Unique stone-paved streets give the island a distinctive charm.
- Pottery Making: Learn about and experience traditional pottery making.
7. Takamori Highland
A scenic highland offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and a ropeway.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Aso caldera.
- Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails catering to different skill levels.
- Ropeway Experience: Enjoy the scenic beauty via a ropeway ride.
8. Mt. Yoshinogari Archaeological Site
An ancient Japanese archaeological site with remnants of the Yayoi period.
- Ancient History: Explore the ruins of Japan's ancient Yayoi period.
- Archaeological Findings: Findings include a moat, burial mounds, and residential areas.
- Nature Walks: Enjoy nature walks through the site's forested surroundings.
9. Hell Valley (Jigokudani)
A geothermal valley with unique landscapes, steam vents, and boiling mud pits.
- Geothermal Wonders: View hot springs, steam vents, and boiling mud pools.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the area via hiking trails.
- Onsen with a View: Relax in an onsen overlooking Hell Valley.
10. Kunisaki Peninsula
A scenic peninsula with temples, shrines, and beautiful coastal views.
- Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like Myōken-ji Temple and Tsukimi Shrine.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the Sea of Japan and the peninsula's coastal cliffs.
- Local Cuisine: Experience Kunisaki's unique cuisine, including its famous beef.
11. Nichinan Coast
A beautiful coastline with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and sea caves.
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning landscapes along the coast offer photo opportunities.
- Sea Cave Exploration: Explore sea caves at places like Yabakei Gorge and Shiraishi-hama.
- Relaxation: Relax on the sandy beaches or soak in nearby hot springs.
12. Nichinan Kaido Road
An old coastal route offering scenic views, historic sites, and local cuisine.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy beautiful views of the Nichinan Coast.
- Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like the Okino-kawa Onsen and Myojo-ji Temple.
- Local Cuisine: Experience local seafood dishes along the way.
13. Takanawa Onsen Town
A quiet onsen town with traditional hot springs and scenic beauty.
- Traditional Onsen Experience: Small, family-run inns offer a traditional onsen experience.
- Seasonal Scenery: Scenic beauty changes with each season, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves.
- Nearby Shrines and Temples: Visit local shrines and temples for a cultural experience.
14. Himeshima Island
A private island featuring luxurious accommodations, beaches, and marine life.
- Luxury Accommodations: High-end resorts offer a relaxing getaway.
- Marine Life: Explore the island's beautiful coral reefs and marine life.
- Beaches and Activities: Enjoy beaches, snorkeling, and other water activities.
15. Kanoya Onsen Town
A small onsen town offering traditional hot springs, scenic beauty, and local cuisine.
- Traditional Onsen Experience: Small, family-run inns offer a traditional onsen experience.
- Seasonal Scenery: Scenic beauty changes with each season, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves.
- Local Cuisine: Experience local cuisine in the town's restaurants.