Oita Summer Hidden Gems: A Romantic Symphony of Hot Springs and Sea

When it comes to summer in Kyushu, most people might first think of Fukuoka's fireworks festivals, Nagasaki's night views, or Kagoshima's sand baths. But in truth, Oita is the real hidden treasure—where hot springs, gourmet food, beaches, and summer festivals all await your discovery.

🎆 Summer Exclusive Highlights

✅ Beppu Fireworks Festival
Beppu isn't just a city of hot springs; its summer fireworks festival is a local favorite. Compared to the crowds in big cities, it offers a more intimate and lively atmosphere. Soak your feet in a hot spring, feel the sea breeze, and watch fireworks light up the night sky—pure bliss.

✅ Coastal Town · Hiji Town
Hiji Town in eastern Oita boasts sunrise views over the Seto Inland Sea that look like a painting. Its quiet, beautiful beaches are perfect for families and couples to enjoy a peaceful summer by the sea.

✅ Beppu Hell Tour · Night Edition
Too hot to visit the blue Blood Pond Hell or red Oniishibaru Hell during the day? Try the nighttime version! The steaming hell pools take on a mysterious aura under the evening mist, making for stunning photos.

🍉 Unique Experiences to Try
🌿 Yufuin Countryside Bike Tour
In summer, Yufuin's rice fields glow emerald green, surrounded by mountains. Cycling through rural paths and seeing Kinrin Lake shimmer in the morning mist feels like a scene straight out of a Japanese drama.

🍶 Beppu Steam Cuisine
Beppu's "Jigoku Mushi" dishes use natural hot spring steam to cook ingredients, creating delicious and healthy meals. Must-tries include steamed vegetables, eggs, and hot spring buns.

⛩️ Beppu's Eight Hot Springs Summer Pilgrimage
Beppu is home to eight distinct hot spring areas, from traditional ryokans to secluded open-air baths. Soak while listening to summer cicadas for a uniquely healing experience.

🍧 Hidden Food Gems
• Cold Matcha Soba | Yufuin
Enjoy a refreshing bowl of cold soba in a charming old house—perfect for beating the heat.
• Hell-Steamed Pudding | Kannawa Onsen
Pudding steamed with hot spring vapor is irresistibly smooth and addictive.
• Seki Saba & Sushi | Saganoseki
Fresh sashimi straight from the Seto Inland Sea—a top-tier delicacy only found in Oita.

Recommended Itinerary (3-Day Hidden Gems Trip)

Day 1: Beppu
Arrive in the afternoon → Hell Tour → Stroll Beppu's hot spring streets → Nighttime fireworks viewing

Day 2: Yufuin
Morning walk around Kinrin Lake → Countryside bike tour → Art galleries & handicraft shops → Open-air hot spring soak

Day 3: Hiji Town & Saganoseki
Sunrise beach walk → Seki Saba lunch → Foot bath and souvenir shopping before departure

🎒 Travel Tips
✔️ Transport: Get a JR Kyushu Rail Pass or rent a car for flexibility between towns.
✔️ Accommodation: Mix ryokans with guesthouses for authentic Japanese vibes on a budget.
✔️ Sun protection: Essential for beach days and hot spring town walks—don’t forget hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
✔️ Slow travel: Skip the rush. Strolling, soaking, and seaside relaxation are Oita's summer rhythms.

Oita might not be the first popular destination that comes to mind, but its under-the-radar charm offers rare tranquility and healing. It’s Kyushu’s hidden summer gem, easy to fall in love with. If you’re tired of crowded fireworks festivals, come to Oita for a unique summer escape—where hot springs, mountains, sea breezes, and fireworks create a personalized, off-the-beaten-path adventure.