Oita's Autumn Foliage: A Seasonal Guide｜Stories｜Visit Oita - The Official Tourism Website of Oita,Kyushu,Japan

Oita's Autumn Foliage: A Seasonal Guide

Oita Prefecture transforms beautifully in the fall as the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and yellow. The best time for viewing is typically mid-October through late November.

With spectacular autumn color spots scattered across the region, we've compiled a list of recommended viewing locations organized by area. Be sure to visit and enjoy the stunning fall scenery!

* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.

Autumn Foliage Viewing Etiquette
Hitome hakkkei (Nakatsu City)
iichiko Hita Distillery (Hita City)
Kokonoe "Yume" Suspension Bridge(Kokonoe Town)
Oka Castle Ruins National Historic Site(Taketa City)
Fukiji Temple（Bungotakada City）
Usa & Kunisaki Area(Bungotakada City・Kitsuki City・Usa City・Kunisaki City)
Hita & Nakatsu Yaba Area(Nakatsu City・Hita City・Kusu Town)
Yufu & Kokonoe Area(Yufu City・Kokonoe Town)
Beppu Bay Area(Oita City・Beppu City・Hiji Town)
Taketa & Oku-Bungo Area(Bungoono City・Taketa City)
Nippo Coast Area(Saiki City・Usuki City・Tsukumi City)
Events held during the autumn foliage season
Oita Autumn Foliage Map

Autumn Foliage Viewing Etiquette

Autumn foliage provides a splendid view that allows you to experience the beauty of Japan's four seasons. To ensure everyone can enjoy the leaves in peace, please keep these basic etiquette guidelines in mind:

・Leave Nature as You Find It

Do not pick or take home leaves or fallen leaves, and never break branches.

・Stay on the Path:

Please remain on designated walking paths and do not enter private property.

・Pack Out Your Trash Always

take all of your trash with you.

・Be Mindful When Taking Photos

Be considerate of others and do not block the path or monopolize a viewing spot while taking pictures.

・Enjoy Quietly

Appreciate the scenery without making loud noises that could disturb other visitors.

By following these simple points, you can fully enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves!

Hitome hakkkei (Nakatsu City)

Hitome hakkkei is a breathtaking spot within Yabakei, renowned for its grand and abundant natural beauty in Oita Prefecture. Its popularity comes from the fact that it offers a single, sweeping view of the eight stunning landscapes surrounding it.

In autumn, the vibrant red and yellow foliage enhances the beauty of the streams and rock faces. This location is so spectacular that it is counted among Japan's Three Great Autumn Foliage Spots, alongside Nikko and Arashiyama.

The observation deck provides spectacular views perfect for photography, and you can also take walking trails to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. The area around the observatory is lined with soba restaurants, inns, and souvenir shops, making it a great hub for your Yabakei sightseeing experience.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November

Address: Oaza Fukayama, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu City

iichiko Hita Distillery (Hita City)

This distillery, located in the natural beauty of Hita City, produces the famous barley shochu, "iichiko", and other spirits, crafted using the area's clean air and natural water.

More than just a brewing facility, the expansive grounds are also one of Hita City's best autumn foliage spots. Come fall, the trees burst into vibrant colors, creating a splendid, classic autumn scene.

Visitors can take a tour to see the brewing process (using only barley koji) and view the aging cellars where the shochu matures. Don't forget to visit the tasting shop where you can sample and purchase standard shochu varieties, as well as exclusive products only available at the distillery.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to Mid-November

Address: 810-1 Nishiarita, Hita City

Kokonoe "Yume" Suspension Bridge(Kokonoe Town)

The Kokonoe “Yume” Grand Suspension Bridge is a popular tourist spot offering panoramic views of beautiful valleys and impressive waterfalls. Standing 173 meters high and spanning 390 meters, it proudly holds the title of "Japan's tallest pedestrian-only bridge."

Located at an elevation of 777 meters, the bridge offers stunning natural scenery, including Shindou Falls (one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls) and the beautiful Kyusuikei Valley, famous for its autumn foliage. In the fall, the surrounding mountains burst into vibrant red, attracting many visitors.

Be sure to visit the observation plaza, which offers a full view of the suspension bridge. It’s a perfect spot to take your time enjoying the scenery or capturing commemorative photos with the autumn colors as a backdrop.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November

Address: 1208 Oaza Tano, kokonoe-machi

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Oka Castle Ruins National Historic Site(Taketa City)

Oka Castle was built in 1185. Its shape resembles a cow, leading to its alternative name in Japanese characters: “Gagyujo” (臥牛城), meaning “Couchant Cow Castle.” From the castle ruins, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Kuju mountain range, Mount Aso, and the castle town below.

The castle grounds are surrounded by lush trees, and the autumn foliage is particularly stunning. The sight of crimson maple leaves against the castle's stone walls is breathtaking, drawing many tourists who enjoy taking photos and strolling. Additionally, Oka Castle boasts numerous cherry trees and is selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. The Oka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year in early April. Oka Castle is a popular spot for tourists, offering the chance to enjoy both history and natural beauty simultaneously.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Late November

Address: 2889 Oaza Taketa, Taketa City

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Fukiji Temple（Bungotakada City）

Fukiji Temple is an ancient site, founded during the Heian period (794–1185). Its Fukiji Main Hall is a designated National Treasure and the oldest wooden structure in all of Kyushu. Inside the hall, you can view the Amida Nyorai statue, an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

The temple is equally famous as a prime spot for autumn foliage, drawing many visitors in the fall. The natural grounds offer stunning autumn colors, typically peaking from late November to early December. The sight of golden ginkgo leaves scattered across the ground is particularly beautiful.

For your visit, the facility provides multilingual Wi-Fi audio guides.

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（2025.9）

Best time for autumn leaves: Late November to early December

Address: 2395 Tashibufuki, Bungotakada City

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Usa & Kunisaki Area(Bungotakada City・Kitsuki City・Usa City・Kunisaki City)

Choanji Temple(Bungotakada City): Choanji Temple is a historic temple that houses several Important Cultural Properties. The precincts are famous for the beautiful flowers and trees throughout the year, earning it the nickname, "Temple of Flowers."
Its autumn foliage is particularly spectacular, drawing many visitors in the fall, making it a popular tourist destination.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late November to early December
Address: 635 Karegawa, Bungotakada City; GoogleMAP

Nameshi Dam Greenland (Bungotakada City): This park offers views of peaceful mountain villages and strange rock formations. In autumn, the surrounding trees turn beautiful colors, attracting many tourists who come to see the beautiful autumn leaves. Nearby is the “Sato no Eki Kotton mura,” where locally grown vegetables and specialty products are sold. You can also eat handmade soba noodles, among which the “Kamonan Soba” (hot soba noodles with duck meat and green onions) is popular.

Best time to see the autumn leaves: Late November to early December
Address: 1587 Ichihata, Bungotakada City; GoogleMAP

Sen-no-iwa(Usa City): Sen-no-iwa is a famous large rock pillar located within Yabakei. Known since ancient times as a sacred place, it is also a training ground for mountain Buddhism. Visitors can climb to the summit of Sen-no-iwa, offering views of Mount Yufu and Mount Tsurumi. During the autumn foliage season, the mountains are vividly colored.

Best time for autumn leaves: Around early November
Address: Ajimu-machi Torigoe, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Takkiri Ravine(Usa City): Yabakei is a beautiful gorge. It's about 2 km to Otobu Falls, and you can enjoy the sound of the river while walking along the trail. The trail is surrounded by natural trees, allowing you to enjoy fresh greenery in spring, autumn leaves in fall, and clear streams in summer. Maple trees spread out on both sides of the gorge carved from a single rock, creating a fantastical atmosphere. It bustles with campers during summer vacation.

Best time for autumn leaves: Around mid-November
Address: 1731 Jobetto, Innai-machi, Usa City; See More

Takasu Bridge Park(Usa City): This park has a pedestrian suspension bridge spanning 132.5 meters. At the bridge's end, you'll find the "Takasu Kannon do"
, said to have been established about 1,300 years ago, and the "Tokushin Bridge", considered the oldest stone bridge in Oita Prefecture. The park's surroundings boast stunning scenery, and autumn brings vibrant foliage. Walking paths are also available, making it a great spot for strolls.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November
Address: 828 Kamihaita, Usa, Oita 879-0466; GoogleMAP

Higashi Shiiya Falls(Usa City): This beautiful waterfall is selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls.The powerful stream of water plunges straight down the 85-meter-high sheer cliff. The area around the falls is part of Yabakei, a nationally designated scenic spot known for its rich natural beauty. The walkway along the stream to the falls also offers beautiful scenery, highlighted by fresh spring greenery and vibrant autumn foliage.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to late November
Address: Ajimu-machi Higashi shiiya, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Nishi shiiya View(Usa City): This area is also called “Machu Picchu Usa” because its landscape resembles the World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. The scenery of terraced rice fields and the village is incredibly beautiful, and in autumn, the surrounding trees turn vibrant colors, creating an even more spectacular view. The view from the observation deck is also superb, making it a popular spot for many photographers.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Late November
Address: Innai-machi Nishi shiiya, Usa City; GoogleMAP

Monjusenji Temple(Kunisaki City): This temple enshrines Monju Bosatsu, revered as the deity of wisdom and learning. Its grounds and surroundings feature large trees, including a zelkova estimated to be about 1,000 years old and a cedar approximately 400 years old, designated as Natural Monuments of Oita Prefecture. After enjoying the splendid scenery, we also recommend experiencing zazen meditation or copying sutras.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to early December
Address: 2432 Daionji, Kunisaki-machi, Kunisaki City; See More

Ruins of the Former Sentoji Temple(Kunisaki City): This site was once a large temple, but is now maintained as a park. You can enjoy a short hike amidst the solemn atmosphere created by traditional stone sculptures. Many people visit during the autumn foliage season.

Best time for autumn foliage: Late November to early December
Address: Sento, Kunimi-machi, Kunisaki City; See More

Kitsuki Samurai Residences(Kitsuki City): Samurai residences line the streets of Kitsuki's castle town. Explore historic residences and savor matcha tea in gardens, immersing yourself in traditional Japanese culture. In autumn, the trees in the gardens turn vibrant red, creating an even more beautiful landscape. Renting a kimono and strolling through the castle town is also recommended.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to late November
Address: Kitsuki, Kitsuki City, Oita; See More

Fukino Falls(Usa City): This waterfall consists of the “Odaki(Male Falls)” and “Medaki(Female Falls).” With its abundant water flow, it offers a spectacular view, cascading 65 meters. From the observation deck, you can admire the falls amidst rich natural surroundings. A walking path is also available, allowing you to enjoy strolls while viewing the autumn foliage.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to early November
Address: Ajimu-machi Fukino, Usa City (Fukino Falls Observation Deck); GoogleMAP

Futagoji Temple(Kunisaki City): This ancient temple was founded in 718. Its mountain gate features Kunisaki's largest Nio guardian statues. It's also famous as a fall foliage spot, beautifully colored by crimson maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees. It boasts a rare tree called “Shigure Momiji” (Drizzling Maple), said to drip water droplets even on sunny days.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to early December
Address: 1548 Futago, Aki-machi, Kunisaki City; See More

Ruru Park (Oita Agricultural and Cultural Park)(Kitsuki City): This expansive park boasts grounds covering 120 hectares. Within the park, you'll find an experiential farm, a local products hall, a flower garden, an orchard, cottages, an auto campground, and large playground equipment. In autumn, we highly recommend seeing the beautiful scenery where kochia spreads out like a red carpet.

Best time for autumn colors: Mid-September to early November (Kochia)
Address: 1-1 Oaza Hisashi, Yamaga-machi, Kitsuki City; See More

Hita & Nakatsu Yaba Area(Nakatsu City・Hita City・Kusu Town)

Keiseki-en(Nakatsu City): This Japanese garden features 120,000 stones from Yabakei, recreating the valley's streams using dam water. Trees, ponds, and rocks are beautifully arranged, offering particularly stunning scenery during the autumn foliage season. Many tourists visit during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November
Address: 2286-1 Yabakei-machi Oaza Oshima, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Maple Yaba Cycling Course(Nakatsu City): This cycling route spans approximately 35 km. Utilizing a former railway line, crossing iron bridges is one of its highlights. With gentle slopes, it's recommended for beginners. In autumn, the cycling route offers spectacular views of Yabakei adorned with vibrant autumn foliage.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to late November
Address: 89 Yamakuni-machi Morizane, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Ao no Domon・ Kyoshuho(Nakatsu City): Ao no Domon is a tunnel hand-carved over 30 years by a monk using chisels and hammers for the local residents. Today, it is cherished as a famous scenic spot. Kyoshuho features bizarre rock formations stretching for about 1 kilometer, allowing visitors to feel the power of nature.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: Hon-yabakei-machi, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Sarutobi Sentsubo Gorge(Nakatsu City): Sarutobi Sen Tsubo Gorge is designated as a National Natural Monument. Countless potholes of various sizes, formed over long periods by the fierce currents of the mountain stream, stretch for approximately 2 kilometers. It is also a recommended scenic spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November
Address: Kusamoto, Yamakuni-machi, Nakatsu City; See More

Hisashi momiji(Nakatsu City): Hisashi Momiji is located along the road leading to Shin-yabakei along Prefectural Route 28. Maple trees overhanging the road diagonally stretch for about 100 meters. During the autumn foliage season, the area is illuminated, allowing visitors to enjoy the fantastical nighttime foliage, different from the daytime view. You can enjoy the autumn leaves while driving.

Best viewing period: Early to mid-November
Address: Yabakei-machi Oaza Shin-yaba, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Goryo Momiji(Nakatsu City): The Goryo Maple reaches its peak viewing period around the time the autumn foliage in Yabakei ends. The maples lining both sides of the steps leading up to Goryo Shrine turn a beautiful crimson in autumn. The sight of colorful fallen leaves spread across the ground is truly mystical. It is a spot visited by many photographers every year.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to late November
Address: Yabakei-machi Oaza Tobaru, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Kumohachimangu(Nakatsu City): Kumohachiman Shrine is an ancient shrine founded in 703. Its grounds feature a large ginkgo tree and a thousand-year-old cedar. During the autumn foliage season, vibrant yellow ginkgo leaves blanket the grounds. The ginkgo tree is exceptionally beautiful, offering a place to enjoy the grandeur of nature.

Best time for autumn foliage: Mid-November to late November
Address: 407 Yabakei-machi Oaza Miyazono, Nakatsu City; GoogleMAP

Hibiki Valley(Hita City): Hibiki Valley is a place where you can enjoy scenery as beautiful as a traditional ink painting. Trees cover the steep cliffs, turning vibrant colors, making it a renowned spot for beautiful autumn foliage. It is especially famous for the spectacular views from “Okuhita Onsen Umehibiki”.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to early November
Address: 4587 Oyama-machi Nishioyama, Hita City (Okuhita Onsen Umehibiki); GoogleMAP

Taio Gold Mine Underground Museum(Hita City): This underground museum was created using tunnels from a mine that closed in 1972. Visitors can explore 800 meters from the entrance. Gold panning experiences are popular, making it a tourist destination that draws many visitors on weekends. In autumn, the trees within the grounds turn beautifully red, offering stunning scenery.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to late November
Address: 3750 Nakatsuemura Gose, Hita City; See More

House of Gyotoku Family(Hita City): This house is a historically significant private residence designated as an Important Cultural Property by the national government. It features construction and ornamentation rarely seen in modern times. It boasts a beautiful garden where, come autumn, crimson maple leaves spread across the ground, creating a stunning scene reminiscent of a red carpet laid out.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late November
Address: Hita City; GoogleMAP

Tachihatanokei(Kusu Town): This beautiful scenic spot features uniquely shaped rock peaks stretching for about 1 km. The rock formations and surrounding mountain views are truly captivating, especially during autumn foliage season when the trees burst into color, enchanting visitors. Surrounded by rice paddies and farmhouses, it offers a relaxing landscape to enjoy.

Best time for autumn foliage: Late October to mid-November
Address:82, Kogo, Kusu Town; GoogleMAP

Uto Gorge(Kusu Town): This valley features a remarkably rare formation where a flat, smooth slab of rock spreads across the riverbed. The valley walls are lined with bizarre rock formations and peaks. From the mountain trails, you can see vibrant red and yellow autumn leaves. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while viewing the foliage.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: 4398-2 Tani-no-kochi, Mori, Oaza, Kusu town; GoogleMAP

Old Garden of Kurushima(Kusu Town): This garden is built on a hillside, a beautiful spot surrounded by trees and ponds. In autumn, the trees within the garden turn red and yellow, captivating visitors. It is a garden where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: 1585 Mori, Kusu Town; GoogleMAP

Higashi-Okuyama Seven Lucky Gods of the East Inner Mountains(Kusu Town): This area is also designated as a Japan Heritage site. In autumn, the beautiful scenery unfolds, woven from autumn leaves and bizarre rock formations. The seven massive rocks known as the “Higashi-Okuyama Seven Lucky Gods” are especially a must-see. Nearby, the “Sato no Eki Shichifukudo” sells vegetables and specialty products from local farmers.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: 855 Mori near Mishima Park, Kusu Town; GoogleMAP

Yufu & Kokonoe Area(Yufu City・Kokonoe Town)

Mt. Yufu(Yufu City): Mount Yufu is a majestic mountain standing at 1,583 meters above sea level. During the autumn foliage season, its mountain cherry trees and maple trees turn vibrant colors, offering a beautiful sight even from afar. Mount Yufu is also a popular destination for hiking. From the summit, you can enjoy views of Yufuin, Beppu Bay, and the Kuju mountain range.

Best time for autumn foliage: Late October to mid-November
Address: Yufuin-cho Kawakami, Yufu City; See More

Lake Kinrin(Yufu City): One of Yufuin's popular tourist spots. A walking path surrounds the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy strolls while viewing the natural scenery throughout the seasons, especially the autumn foliage. From autumn to winter, early mornings offer beautiful views of Kinrin Lake shrouded in mist.

Best time for autumn foliage: Early to mid-November
Address: Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City; See More

Mt. Kurodake(Yufu City): Kurodake is a large mountain located within Aso-Kuju National Park. It was named “Kurodake” (Black Peak) because in winter, the broadleaf trees turn dark, making the entire mountain appear black. While blessed with beautiful nature year-round, it bustles with many hikers in autumn when the autumn leaves become stunning.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November
Address: Asono, Shonai-machi, Yufu City; GoogleMAP

Makinoto Pass(Kokonoe Town): This pass is the highest point along the Yamanami Highway connecting Beppu and Aso. From the observation deck, you can look out over the Kuju Mountains and Aso Range, enjoying magnificent natural scenery. In autumn, you can view the breathtaking Kuju Mountains colored by autumn leaves.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-October onwards
Address: Tano, Kokonoe Town; See More

Kuju Mountain Range: The Kuju Mountain Range stretches from Kuju Town in Kusu District to the northern part of Taketa City. It features a chain of mountains around 1,700 meters high, including Mount Nakadake, the highest peak on mainland Kyushu at 1,791 meters. In autumn, you can enjoy hiking while taking in the vivid scenery painted by the autumn leaves.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-October to mid-November
Address: Kokonoe Town; See More

Kyusuikei Valley(Kokonoe Town): Kyusuikei Valley is a popular tourist spot renowned for its beautiful scenery of fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and waterfalls. It features approximately 2 km of sheer cliffs and expansive virgin forests. Also famous as a prime autumn foliage destination, it attracts many visitors starting in early November. You can enjoy beautiful views from the pass observation deck and the Kokonoe "Yume" Suspension Bridge.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: Kokonoe Town; GoogleMAP

Japan Onsen Guide

Oita Prefecture boasts the largest number of hot spring sources and the most abundant flow volume in Japan.

Hot springs are deeply rooted in Japanese life, and locals visit them for health, relaxation, and socializing.

Oita Prefecture offers a wide variety of hot springs, from traditional public bathhouses frequented by locals for generations to easily accessible day-trip hot springs. Many facilities feature open-air baths, allowing visitors to soak leisurely while enjoying natural scenery. Footbaths and hand baths are also found throughout the towns, providing a casual way to experience hot spring culture without changing clothes—perfect for breaks during sightseeing.

We invite you to fully enjoy Oita's hot springs, tailored to your travel style.

Beppu Bay Area(Oita City・Beppu City・Hiji Town)

Oitaken Kenmin-no-mori(Oita City): This park features a vast site surrounded by rich nature, complete with campgrounds and a cycling center. Seasonal flowers and trees are beautifully planted throughout the grounds. In autumn, the trees turn vibrant reds and yellows, offering a stunning landscape. The autumn foliage around the artificial lake is also beautiful, and its reflection on the lake surface is particularly special.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November
Address: 2007-1 Megusuno, Oita City; GoogleMAP

Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden(Oita City): This is a rare spot where you can see wild Japanese macaques up close. Here, you can observe the monkeys' daily lives. Feeding time is especially a must-see. From the park grounds, rich with nature and covered in trees, you can also enjoy views of Mount Takasaki's beautiful autumn leaves and Beppu Bay. It's also a recommended spot for nature walks.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-December
Address: 3098-1 Kanzaki, Oita City; See More

Mt. Tsurumi(Beppu City): From mid- to late October, autumn colors begin to appear on the mountain, and in November, visitors can enjoy the rare sight of autumn foliage and winter cherry blossoms blooming simultaneously at the base. From the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of Beppu Bay and the Kuju mountain range. The Beppu Ropeway is a convenient way to reach the mountain top.

Best time for autumn colors: Mid-October to mid-November
Address: 10-7 Kanbara, Minami tateishi, Beppu City; See More

Shidaka Lake(Beppu City): Shidaka Lake is a highland lake situated at an elevation of 600 meters. Surrounded by rich natural scenery, it offers views of Mount Yufu. In autumn, visitors can enjoy the beautiful reflection of autumn leaves on the lake's surface. Boating and other activities are available, making it a great spot for families.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late October to early November
Address: 4380 Beppu Shidaka, Beppu City; See More

Tekizanso(Hiji Town): Tekizanso sits atop a small hill overlooking Beppu Bay. Its spacious grounds feature traditional Japanese architecture with tile roofs and beautiful gardens. At the on site restaurant, you can enjoy cuisine made with fresh seafood from Beppu Bay and the Bungo Channel.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late November to early December
Address: 2663, Hiji Town; GoogleMAP

How to Tour the Beppu Jigoku (Hell) Tour

Oita's Beppu Jigoku Tour is a popular attraction centered on seven unique "Jigoku" (Hells)—dynamic hot spring zones known for their powerful fumaroles and mud eruptions. Visitors can experience the distinct natural phenomena of each Hell and enjoy unique hot spring-cooked gourmet foods like onsen tamago(egg) and pudding, along with footbaths. For a convenient and efficient experience, the regular sightseeing bus is highly recommended, allowing you to tour all seven Hells in about three hours with guided commentary.

Taketa & Oku-Bungo Area(Bungoono City・Taketa City)

Hoshoji Temple(Bungoono City): Hoshoji Temple is a venerable temple with 800 years of history. Its beautiful garden is vividly colored during the autumn foliage season. It is also designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by the city. Illuminations are held during the peak foliage period.

Best time for autumn foliage: Early to late November
Address: 1639 Kiyokawa-machi Utaeda, Bungoono City; GoogleMAP

Yujaku Park(Bungoono City): Over 500 maple trees are planted around the park's pond. The peak autumn foliage season runs from mid- to late November. During this time, the “Yujaku Park Autumn Foliage Festival” is held, featuring various events and illuminations, attracting many visitors.

Best Viewing Period: Early to late November
Address: 3914 Asaji-machi Kamiotsuka, Bungoono City; GoogleMAP

Nippo Coast Area(Saiki City・Usuki City・Tsukumi City)

Fujigawachi Gorge(Saiki City): Fujigawachi Gorge is an approximately 8-kilometer-long gorge where visitors can view attractions such as Kannon Falls (77-meter drop) and numerous pot holes from the walking trail. Enjoy nature throughout the seasons, with beautiful autumn foliage in fall.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-October to mid-November
Address: Ume Kiurauchi, Saiki City; See More

The Honjo Great Waterwheel(Saiki City): The large waterwheel in Honjo, Saiki City is one of the largest wooden waterwheels in western Japan. With a diameter of 18.18 meters, it stands as tall as a six-story building. The area around this waterwheel is also a popular spot for viewing beautiful autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy local dishes made with buckwheat flour and try their hand at making soba noodles nearby.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to mid-November
Address: 107 Kohan, Honjo, Saiki City; See More

Shiroyama(Saiki City): Shiroyama is a 144-meter-high peak in central Saiki City. During autumn foliage season, its zelkova trees turn vibrant colors, and acorns and chestnuts litter the paths. Four hiking trails lead to the summit, where views sometimes extend to the mountains of Shikoku. Be sure to visit the nearby Saiki Castle ruins as well.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to late November
Address: 1-1 Ote-machi, Saiki City; See More

Kyushintei(Saiki City): Kyushintei is a tea house. Walking along the “Path of History and Literature” from Shiroyama, you'll find it along the way. It features a beautiful Japanese garden and tea house building, which you can freely explore. Those who wish can pay to enjoy matcha tea and sweets. Savoring matcha while gazing at the beautiful garden is truly special.

Best time for autumn leaves: Mid-November to late November
Address: 3-13 Joka Nishi-machi, Saiki City; GoogleMAP

Fugenji Temple(Usuki City): The grounds of Fugenji Temple feature approximately 200 Japanise maple trees. In autumn, their leaves turn vibrant red and yellow, creating a beautiful scene. During the peak autumn foliage season around November, the maples are illuminated at night, offering a fantastical view.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Late November
Address: 1346 Notsu-machi Oaza Notsu city, Usuki City; GoogleMAP

Hakuba Gorge(Usuki City): Hakuba Gorge is a gorge designated as a scenic spot in Usuki City and a popular destination for viewing beautiful autumn leaves. Every November, the Momiji Festival is held, attracting many visitors. Additionally, Hakuba Valley features eight small stone bridges, which are one of its highlights.

Best time for autumn leaves: Late November
Address: Maeda, Usuki City; GoogleMAP

Otomo Sorin Cemetery Park(Tsukumi City): This park offers scenery that changes with the seasons. Within the park are two graves of Otomo Sorin, a famous Christian daimyo (a samurai who supported missionary activities). One is Buddhist-style, the other Christian-style. Both are surrounded by cedar forests over 100 years old, offering a solemn atmosphere.

Best time for autumn leaves: Early to late November
Address: 4198-1 Oaza Miuchi, Oaza Tsukumi, Tsukumi City; See More

Events held during the autumn foliage season

Be sure to check out the events happening all over the country!

See More

Oita Autumn Foliage Map

This map highlights recommended autumn foliage spots in Oita Prefecture. Please feel free to use it.

Hitome hakkkei (Nakatsu City)
Iichiko Hita Distillery (Hita City)
Kokonoe "Yume" Suspension Bridge (Kokonoe Town)
Oka Castle Ruins National Historic Site (Taketa City)
Fukiji Temple（Bungotakada City）
Choanji Temple(Bungotakada City)
Nameshi Dam Greenland (Bungotakada City)
Sen-no-iwa(Usa City)
Takkiri Ravine(Usa City)
Takasu Bridge Park(Usa City)
Higashi Shiiya Falls(Usa City)
Nishi shiiya View(Usa City)
Monjusenji Temple(Kunisaki City)
Ruins of the Former Sentoji Temple(Kunisaki City)
Kitsuki Samurai Residences(Kitsuki City)
Fukino Falls(Usa City)
Futagoji Temple(Kunisaki City)
Ruru Park (Oita Agricultural and Cultural Park)(Kitsuki City)
Keiseki-en(Nakatsu City)
Maple Yaba Cycling Course(Nakatsu City)
Ao no Domon・ Kyoshuho(Nakatsu City)
Sarutobi Sentsubo Gorge(Nakatsu City)
Hisashi momiji(Nakatsu City)
Goryo Momiji(Nakatsu City)
Kumohachimangu(Nakatsu City)
Hibiki Valley(Hita City)
Taio Gold Mine Underground Museum(Hita City)
House of Gyotoku Family(Hita City)
Tachihatanokei(Kusu Town)
Uto Gorge(Kusu Town)
Old Garden of Kurushima(Kusu Town)
Higashi-Okuyama Seven Lucky Gods of the East Inner Mountains(Kusu Town)
Mt. Yufu(Yufu City)
Lake Kinrin(Yufu City)
Mt. Kurodake(Yufu City)
Makinoto Pass(Kokonoe Town)
Kuju Mountain Range
Kyusuikei Valley(Kokonoe Town)
Oitaken Kenmin-no-mori(Oita City)
Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden(Oita City)
Mt. Tsurumi(Beppu City)
Shidaka Lake(Beppu City)
Tekizanso(Hiji Town)
Hoshoji Temple(Bungoono City)
Yujaku Park(Bungoono City)
Fujigawachi Gorge(Saiki City)
The Honjo Great Waterwheel(Saiki City)
Shiroyama(Saiki City)
Kyushintei(Saiki City)
Fugenji Temple(Usuki City)
Hakuba Gorge(Usuki City)
Otomo Sorin Cemetery Park(Tsukumi City)

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