1. What are some popular outdoor activities to do in Beppu, Japan?
1. Visiting the hot springs and onsens: Beppu is known as Japan’s “onsen capital” and is famous for its many geothermal hot springs. Visitors can visit various types of hot springs, including sand baths and steam baths.
2. Hiking Mt. Tsurumi: This mountain offers beautiful views of Beppu Bay and the surrounding landscape, as well as a challenging hike through lush forests.
3. Boat tours of Beppu Bay: A popular way to see the city from a different perspective is by taking a boat tour around Beppu Bay. These tours often stop at different sites along the coast, such as scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks.
4. Cycling tours: Many visitors enjoy exploring Beppu and its neighboring towns by bicycle. There are several bike rental shops in the city, offering guided tours or self-guided options.
5. Zip-lining adventures: Adventurous travelers can try zip-lining through the forests near Mt. Tsurumi for an adrenaline-filled experience and stunning views.
6. Walking on the Umitamago Oceonarium Skywalk: The Umitamago Oceanarium features an elevated walkway above fish tanks filled with marine life, giving visitors a unique view of sea creatures from above.
7. Visiting Kokutaiji Temple: This historic Buddhist temple is located on top of Mount Kamegawa and offers panoramic views of Beppu and its surroundings.
8. Canyoning or rafting in Takasaki River: For those seeking more outdoor thrills, nearby Takasaki River offers opportunities for canyoning or rafting adventures with stunning scenery.
9.Instagram-worthy photo spots: In addition to natural sights, there are also several Instagram-worthy photo spots in Beppu, such as colorful flower fields, traditional Japanese bridges, and street art installations.
10. Exploring troll parks: “Troll parks” are unique amusement parks found in Beppu, featuring fantastical landscapes and attractions, such as a “Monster House,” giant trolls, and hidden caves to explore.
2. Is hiking a popular activity in Beppu?
Yes, hiking is a popular activity in Beppu. The city has many scenic trails and hiking routes that attract locals and tourists alike. Some of the popular places for hiking in Beppu include Mount Tsurumi, Mount Yufu, Mount Eboshi, and Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour). These hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding nature, waterfalls, hot springs, and mountains. Many local tour companies also offer guided hikes for visitors who want to explore the area’s natural beauty with an experienced guide.
3. Are there any guided tours available for outdoor activities in Beppu?
There are several guided tours available for outdoor activities in Beppu, including:1. Sea kayaking tour: This tour takes you on a kayak through the calm waters of Beppu Bay, where you can enjoy views of the stunning coastline and perhaps even spot sea turtles.
2. Mountain biking tour: Explore the beautiful Oita countryside with a professional guide who will lead you on a scenic route through forests, rice paddies, and rural villages.
3. Canyoning tour: Climb and swim through waterfalls and natural rock pools on this thrilling adventure that is suitable for all skill levels.
4. Hiking tour of Mt. Tsurumi: Join a knowledgeable guide for a trek up Mt. Tsurumi, one of Beppu’s most iconic mountains with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Stand-up paddleboarding tour: Glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Kinrin while taking in the picturesque scenery and learning about the history and culture of Beppu from your guide.
These tours can be booked through local tour operators such as Beppu Adventours or Oita Adventure.
4. What are some recommended spots for camping near Beppu?
1. Taketa Camp Village2. Kirishima International Youth Hostel
3. Osumi Peninsula Camp Village
4. Kuju Nature Retreat
5. Kitahama Kaigan Itaki Auto Camping Site
6. Yufugawa Valley Farm & Camping Site
7. Warabino Campsite
8. Tsurumidake Campground
9. Pupu Farm Garden & Eco Lodge
10. Bungo Suido Seaside Park Oyama Camping Site
5. Which season is the best for outdoor activities in Beppu?
The best season for outdoor activities in Beppu is typically autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the leaves change color during this time, making it a beautiful and scenic time of year to be outdoors. However, spring (March to May) can also be a good time for outdoor activities as the cherry blossoms bloom and the temperatures are comfortable.
6. Are there any water sports or activities available in Beppu?
Yes, there are a variety of water sports and activities available in Beppu, such as:
1. Onsen bathing: Beppu is famous for its numerous hot springs and onsen baths, where visitors can relax and soak in the healing waters.
2. Boat tours: Visitors can take boat tours around Beppu Bay to admire the coastal scenery and possibly catch a glimpse of dolphins or whales.
3. Snorkeling and diving: The clear water around Beppu makes it an ideal location for snorkeling and diving, with colorful sea creatures to be seen.
4. Jet skiing: Enjoy a thrilling ride on the waves with jet skiing at one of Beppu’s beaches.
5. Sea kayaking: Explore the coastline of Beppu by sea kayaking, admiring the rugged cliffs and hidden coves along the way.
6. Surfing: Some of Beppu’s beaches offer good surfing conditions, making it a popular spot for surfers.
7. Parasailing: Take to the sky and enjoy breathtaking views of Beppu while parasailing over the bay.
8. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP): Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding on one of Beppu’s calm bays or rivers.
9. Fishing: Visitors can try their luck at fishing in Beppu Bay or one of the many rivers running through the city.
10. River rafting: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, river rafting down one of Beppu’s rivers is a thrilling experience.
7. Can tourists go on a traditional Japanese riverboat ride in Beppu?
Yes, tourists can go on a traditional Japanese riverboat ride in Beppu. There are several tour companies in Beppu that offer riverboat rides, also known as gondola rides, through the city’s canals and rivers. The boats are designed to resemble traditional Japanese wooden boats and often feature a roof made of straw.This experience offers a unique way to see the city from a different perspective and allows tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery. Some riverboat rides also include traditional entertainment such as shamisen music or tea ceremonies. Prices and availability may vary depending on the season, so it is best to check with tour companies beforehand.
8. What are some scenic trails or paths for biking in the countryside of Beppu?
1. Kunisaki Peninsula Cycling Road: Located about an hour’s drive from Beppu, this 53-kilometer loop trail takes you through the beautiful countryside of the Kunisaki Peninsula.
2. Yufu cycling course: This 34-kilometer route meanders through the picturesque towns and villages of Yufuin, offering stunning views of Mt. Yufu and the surrounding farmland.
3. Kibiji Cycling Trail: About an hour’s drive from Beppu, this 25-kilometer path follows an ancient historic road that connects Okayama and Kagawa Prefectures, passing by rice fields, traditional villages, and scenic viewpoints.
4. Saiki-Harajiri cycling course: This 14-kilometer route starts in Beppu and takes you along the coast to Harajiri Falls, with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
5. Akiyoshidai Plateau Cycling Course: Located about an hour’s drive from Beppu, this 10-kilometer route offers panoramic views of Akiyoshidai National Park and leads to the Akiyoshi-do Cave.
6. Japan Kyushu Cycling Route: Beginning in Fukuoka city (about a 2-hour train ride from Beppu), this cross-country trail covers over 700 kilometers of beautiful scenery and passes through Oita Prefecture before ending in Nagasaki.
7. Lake Kinrin Circuit Course: Just outside of Yufuin lies Lake Kinrin, a popular tourist spot with a picturesque cycling path around its shores.
8. Bungo Ono Green Cycle Road: A relatively flat 40-kilometer paved trail that runs along rivers and through forests in Oita Prefecture’s Bungo Ono city area.
9. Are there any cultural activities that combine nature and adventure in Beppu?
Yes, there are several cultural activities in Beppu that combine nature and adventure, such as:
1. Hiking and Onsen Experience: Visitors can hike through the beautiful mountains surrounding Beppu and then relax in a traditional hot spring or “onsen” to experience the healing powers of nature.
2. Bamboo Rafting: This unique cultural activity allows visitors to explore the Oita River on a bamboo raft while learning about the local history and culture of the area.
3. Forest Therapy Walk: Beppu is known for its abundant forests, and visitors can join a guided forest therapy walk to learn about the healing properties of nature from a local expert.
4. Farm-to-Table Cooking Class: In this activity, participants can pick fresh ingredients from local farms and learn how to cook traditional dishes using seasonal produce, all while surrounded by nature.
5. Handicraft Workshops: Several workshops in Beppu offer hands-on experiences with traditional crafts such as pottery making, bamboo craft, and indigo dyeing, all set against a backdrop of natural landscapes.
6. Scenic Cycling Tour: Visitors can rent bicycles in Beppu and go on a scenic cycling tour through picturesque countryside roads and coastal paths to experience the beauty of nature up close.
7. Traditional Temple Visits: Many temples in Beppu are nestled within nature, offering visitors a chance to explore these sacred sites while admiring their serene surroundings.
8. Kaiseki Dinner Experience: Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course dinner served at high-end restaurants that specialize in using locally sourced ingredients. These dinners often feature seasonal delicacies from the mountains and sea, giving visitors an authentic taste of nature’s bounty.
9. Nature-based Art Exhibitions: Some art exhibitions in Beppu incorporate elements of nature into their displays, creating immersive experiences that allow visitors to appreciate both art and the natural world simultaneously.
10. Is hot air ballooning available as an adventure activity near Beppu?
Hot air ballooning is not a popular adventure activity near Beppu. However, it may be possible to find companies that offer hot air balloon rides in nearby cities such as Fukuoka or Oita. It is recommended to contact local tour companies or do a search online to see if there are any options available.
11. Can visitors go paragliding or hang gliding around the mountains of Beppu?
It is not possible to go paragliding or hang gliding in the mountains of Beppu as there are no designated sites for these activities in the area. However, visitors could potentially find tandem paragliding or hang gliding experiences offered by local tour companies in nearby cities such as Fukuoka or Kumamoto. It is recommended to research and make arrangements beforehand.
12. Are there any outdoor rock climbing spots around Beppu that beginners can try?
Yes, some popular outdoor rock climbing spots around Beppu that are suitable for beginners include Takasakiyama Natural Botanical Garden, Kamegawa Rock Climbing Site, and Futago Mountain. These areas have multiple routes with varying difficulty levels to cater to beginners. However, it is recommended to go with a licensed guide or an experienced climber for safety purposes.
13. Is it possible to go white-water rafting on the rivers near Beppu?
Yes, it is possible to go white-water rafting on the rivers near Beppu. There are several river tour companies that offer white-water rafting experiences on the Oita and Kumamoto rivers. Additionally, many hotels and resorts in Beppu also have packages or arrangements for guests to enjoy this activity.
14. How about horseback riding through the mountains of Beppu – is that possible?
Yes, it is possible to go horseback riding through the mountains of Beppu. There are several ranches and equestrian clubs in the area that offer guided horseback riding tours through scenic mountain trails. These tours usually cater to all experience levels and provide trained horses for beginners. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Beppu while getting some exercise and bonding with your four-legged companion.
15. Are there any natural hot springs or onsens that are suitable for outdoor bathing near Beppu?
Yes, there are several natural hot springs or onsens that are suitable for outdoor bathing near Beppu. Some popular options include Beppu Onsen, Kannawa Onsen, and Yufuin Onsen. These onsens can be found in outdoor settings such as forests or mountains and offer a unique and relaxing bathing experience. Additionally, many of the lodging facilities in Beppu also offer their own private outdoor hot springs for guests to use.
16. Can tourists go birdwatching or wildlife spotting near Beppu?
Yes, tourists can go birdwatching and wildlife spotting near Beppu. Some popular birdwatching spots include Mount Tsurumi and Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden. Visitors can also take a wildlife cruise to see dolphins, turtles, and other sea creatures off the coast of Beppu.
17. What kind of gear or equipment is necessary for outdoor activities in and around Beppu?
The necessary gear or equipment for outdoor activities in and around Beppu may vary depending on the specific activity, but some common items that may be needed are as follows:
1. Hiking: Comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes, appropriate clothing (depending on the weather), a backpack to carry essentials such as water, snacks, and sunscreen, a map or navigation device, and possibly hiking poles for steep trails.
2. Camping: A tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads or air mattresses, cooking equipment and utensils (if planning to cook food), headlamps or flashlights for nighttime use, bug spray or insect repellent.
3. Water activities (e.g. rafting, kayaking): Appropriate swimwear, a life jacket or personal flotation device (if not provided by the tour company), water shoes or sandals with good grip to protect your feet from rocks and other sharp objects in the water.
4. Cycling: A bicycle and helmet (rentals may be available in Beppu), appropriate cycling clothing, a repair kit for any potential bike issues.
5. Winter activities (e.g. skiing/snowboarding): Appropriate clothing layers including base layers, mid-layers, and outerwear such as ski jackets and pants to stay warm and dry in cold temperatures. Ski/snowboard equipment can typically be rented at ski resorts in the area.
It is always best to research and plan ahead for any specific gear needed for your chosen activity before arriving in Beppu.
18. Is there a place to rent bikes or other equipment needed for outdoor adventures in Beppu?
Yes, there are several places in Beppu where you can rent bikes and other equipment for outdoor adventures. Some popular options include:
1. Beppu Station Bike Rental – Located near the train station, this shop offers both regular and electric bikes for rent at reasonable prices.
2. Beppu Kamenoi Hotel Rental Cycle – This hotel also has a rental shop where you can rent bikes, fishing gear, camping equipment and more.
3. Be-Pass Rent-a-Cycle – This rental shop is conveniently located near the tourist information center in Beppu City Hall. They offer a variety of bikes and other outdoor equipment for rent.
4. Active Life San Sai – This rental shop specializes in outdoor equipment such as mountain bikes, hiking gear, camping gear, and more.
5. Minamizaki Campsite Rental Bungalow Village – Located near Mt. Tsurumi, this campsite offers rental services for tents, BBQ grills, sleeping bags, lanterns and more.
It is best to call ahead or check their websites for availability and rates before visiting any of these rental shops.
19. Can tourists participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies outdoors, like in a garden setting?
Yes, tourists can participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies outdoors in a garden setting. Many cultural centers and traditional tea houses offer outdoor tea ceremonies as well as indoor ones. It is a unique way to experience the beauty of Japanese gardens while also learning about the customs and traditions surrounding the tea ceremony.
20. Which nearby islands can be visited from Beppu for snorkeling or scuba diving experiences?
Visitors to Beppu can visit nearby islands such as Nakanoshima, Yufuinshima, and Shikanoshima for snorkeling and scuba diving experiences.