Oita Prefecture, located on the northeastern coast of Kyushu island, is Japan's undisputed hot-spring capital, boasting more onsen sources and volume than anywhere else in the country. The region is home to Beppu, one of Asia's most famous spa towns with its dramatic steam vents, and Yufuin, a sophisticated mountain onsen resort framed by Mount Yufu. Beyond the thermal waters, Oita offers ancient Buddhist cliff carvings at Usuki, wild monkeys bathing in hot springs at Takasakiyama, dramatic gorges at Takachiho on its border, and some of Kyushu's finest local cuisine.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Torimon confection
Oita's signature bird-shaped mochi sweet; available citywide
Price: ¥600–¥2,500 (~$4–$17 USD)
Kabosu products
Kabosu citrus ponzu sauce, vinegar, jam, dried peel
Price: ¥400–¥1,500 (~$2.65–$10 USD)
Oita mugi shochu
Barley distilled spirit; local brands: Iichiko, Sanwa, Nikaido
Price: ¥900–¥5,000 (~$6–$33 USD)
Yufuin milk jam
Rich dairy jam made from Yufuin cow milk; refrigerate after opening
Price: ¥800–¥1,500 (~$5.30–$10 USD)
Beppu bath salts
Onsen mineral salts packaged for home use; many scents and mineral blends
Price: ¥500–¥3,000 (~$3.30–$20 USD)
Oita Shibugaki persimmon crafts
Traditional dried-persimmon preservation crafts from Bungo-Ono
Price: ¥1,500–¥8,000 (~$10–$53 USD)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Oita Ichinoichi Market
Fresh local produce, fish, pickles
Where: Oita City
Hours: Tue–Sun 8:00–18:00
JA Oita Farmers Market
Kabosu, shiitake, local vegetables
Where: Oita City outskirts
Hours: Mon–Sun 9:00–18:00, closed Mon