Seasonal Tips & Travel Information
For anyone planning a trip to Oita Prefecture, we’ve compiled some useful travel information to help you prepare, including temperatures, seasonal clothing recommendations, must-see attractions, and local gourmet delights. Use this guide to make your journey to Oita a memorable and enjoyable experience!
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Contents
- Tourist Seasons in Oita Prefecture
- Oita's Climate Characteristics
- Spring (March-May) Climate
- Spring Highlights
- Festivals and Events
- Spring Cuisine
- Summer (June-August) Climate
- Summer Highlights
- Festivals and Events
- Summer Cuisine
- Autumn (September-November) Climate
- Autumn Highlights
- Festivals and Events
- Autumn Cuisine
- Winter (December-February) Climate
- Winter Highlights
- Festivals and Events
- Winter Cuisine
Tourist Seasons in Oita Prefecture
Oita Prefecture offers a variety of activities and stunning natural scenery no matter the season. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, while summer brings bustling beaches, marine sports, and vibrant fireworks festivals across the region. Autumn is the perfect season for enjoying breathtaking fall foliage, hiking, and nature walks, and in winter visitors can indulge in skiing and relaxing in onsen. No matter when you visit, Oita promises new and exciting discoveries.
Oita's Climate Characteristics
Oita Prefecture's climate varies by region. The coastal areas are warm and humid, with summers in particular often feel hot and muggy. In contrast, the inland mountainous areas have cooler temperatures, and snow can fall in winter. Spring and autumn are generally comfortable seasons, but mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it's important to be mindful of temperature differences.
In summer, make sure to take appropriate precautions against heatstroke and UV rays. In winter, prepare warm clothing, and, if visiting areas with potential snowfall, wear slip-resistant footwear. Throughout the year, layering your clothing is recommended to accommodate temperature fluctuations.
Spring (March-May) Climate
Temperature range: 25°C / 8°C (77°F / 46°F)
As March arrives, the cold begins to ease and warmer days become more frequent. By May, you’ll find many days suitable for short sleeves. However, the temperature can fluctuate significantly, so be mindful of the colder mornings and evenings. Wearing layers, such as a combination of long sleeves, short sleeves, and a jacket or cardigan, is recommended for easy temperature adjustment.
March-April:
-Light knitwear or long-sleeve tops paired with a windbreaker or cardigan.
May:
-Short-sleeve tops with a lightweight cardigan or windbreaker.
Spring Highlights
Spring is a season of blooming flowers, with cherry blossoms in full bloom throughout the prefecture, along with azaleas and rapeseed flowers at their peak. At Kuju Flower Park, tulips and poppies reach their prime from late April to May. Additionally, Miyamakirishima, a species of azalea designated as a natural monument, is best seen in spring. Entire mountainsides are painted pink, captivating visitors with their beauty. With the relatively comfortable temperatures, cycling along the Kunisaki Peninsula's scenic coastline is also highly recommended.
Festivals and Events
- Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival (April / Beppu City)
- This festival began as a way to express gratitude for the blessings of onsen. Highlights include the Ogiyama Fire Festival, where open fields are lit ablaze, creating a dramatic spectacle; mikoshi portable shrines that are paraded around Beppu's shopping streets; and the "Yubukkake Matsuri" (hot water splashing festival) that takes place along the street near the station. This is also a time when many people enjoy onsen hopping.
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- Oka Castle Sakura Festival (April / Taketa City)
- A variety of events are held at the castle ruins, which are adorned with blooming cherry blossoms. The highlight is the Daimyo Procession, a recreation from Japan's Edo (1603 to 1868) period in history. Food stalls offering local gourmet specialties add to the festive atmosphere.
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- Kitsuki Castle Festival
- This festival features a costumed parade with participants dressed in attire from the Sengoku (warring states) period in the 1400s, creating a vibrant spectacle as they march through the town. Visitors can also experience the thunderous sounds of matchlock guns during dramatic reenactments. Simply strolling through the town feels like stepping back in time to an earlier era.
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Spring Cuisine
- Kabosu-Hirame Flounder
- A premium flounder known for its exceptional quality,
Kabosu-hirame flounder is raised on feed mixed with kabosu, a citrus fruit. Its thick, translucent flesh offers a refined balance of sweetness and a refreshing taste. It is most commonly enjoyed as sashimi. 
- Shiroshita-Karei Righteye Flounder
- A premium fish raised in the waters flowing from beneath a castle, Shiroshita-karei righteye flounder is prized for its lack of muddiness and its delicate sweetness. It can be prepared in various ways, such as sashimi, deep-fried, or simmered, but sashimi is the best way to savor its natural sweetness.
- Tea
- With its warm climate and abundant nature, Oita produces high-quality tea. Renowned for its rich aroma, subtle bitterness, and savory umami, it is loved both domestically and internationally.
Summer (June-August) Climate
Temperature range: 33°C / 20°C (91°F / 68°F)
June tends to be relatively comfortable, though mornings and evenings can feel cooler, and as such it’s best to avoid overly revealing outfits like sleeveless T-shirts or shorts during this time. As the rainy season sets in, carrying an umbrella is practical for sudden showers. In July, temperatures gradually rise, marking the start of peak summer. During the hottest days, temperatures can exceed 37°C (98°F). Along with dressing appropriately, staying hydrated is crucial. Don’t forget to take precautions against UV rays and heatstroke. Additionally, this season sees an increase in typhoons, so keeping an eye on weather updates and transportation schedules is essential.
June:
-Lightweight long sleeves or three-quarter-length tops are ideal. Carry an umbrella, handkerchief, or towel for rainy weather.
July-August:
-Opt for breathable short-sleeve tops or sleeveless shirts, and consider accessories like hats or sunglasses. Since indoor air conditioning can feel chilly, a light layer to wear indoors is recommended.
Summer Highlights
Oita offers countless spots and activities to enjoy the beauty of nature. Mountain climbing and hiking enthusiasts can look forward to breathtaking views in areas like the Kuju Mountain Range or the Chojabaru wetlands. During the rainy season, known for frequent showers, a visit to the Usuki Stone Buddhas and their vibrant hydrangeas is a serene experience. On hot summer days, cool off at Sakura Falls, Harajiri Falls, or Yufugawa Gorge. These destinations allow you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Oita during the summer.
Festivals and Events
- Three Great Gion Festivals (July / Usuki City, Nakatsu City, Hita City)
- Oita's Three Great Gion Festivals – Hita Gion, Nakatsu Gion, and Usuki Gion – each boast over 300 years of history and tradition. These Shinto festivals serve as sacred rituals to ward off plagues and natural disasters while also praying for peace and prosperity. Their most striking feature is the lavishly decorated festival floats, which captivate visitors.
- Beppu Hinoumi ("Fire Sea") Festival (July / Beppu City)
- This summer tradition includes a spectacular fireworks display, and food stalls featuring local specialties and gourmet dishes line the festival area, offering a taste of the region. Visitors can also enjoy various events, such as the cooling Noryo Ondo, a traditional Japanese dance, making it a highlight of summer in Beppu.
Summer Cuisine
- Seki-Aji Horse Mackerel
- Seki-aji horse mackerel, a renowned brand fish alongside Seki-saba mackerel, is caught using a traditional pole-and-line fishing method. This technique ensures the fish remains exceptionally fresh compared to other methods, making it perfect for savoring as sashimi.
- Hamo Eel
- Hamo eel is known for its rich and refined flavor. Its large, satisfying fillets can be enjoyed in a variety of preparations, such as sashimi, tempura, or grilled dishes.
- Kabosu Citrus
- Kabosu citrus is one of Oita's signature fruits, celebrated for its mellow acidity and refreshing aroma. It is versatile, enhancing a wide range of dishes and beverages, from savory meals to drinks like alcohol and juices.
Autumn (September-November) Climate
Temperature range: 29°C / 10°C (84°F / 50°F)
In September, the lingering summer heat calls for lightweight clothing like short sleeves. From October onward, temperature fluctuations become more pronounced, with warm periods during the day but cooler mornings and evenings, so bring a light, wind-resistant coat or jacket for comfort. As temperatures drop in October, having both short and long-sleeved options is advisable. By November, long sleeves paired with a jacket or typical autumn attire are recommended.
September:
-Short sleeves or lightweight shirts.
October-November:
-A mix of short and long-sleeved clothing is ideal. Include a light coat or cardigan for easy temperature adjustments.
-When visiting mountainous areas or on rainy days, consider bringing a scarf or mountain parka.
Autumn Highlights
Autumn offers a comfortable climate, making it the perfect season to enjoy Oita's stunning natural beauty, including vibrant autumn leaves and bright red kokia bushes. From late October, the mountains begin to take on vivid colors, reaching their peak around late November. Recommended spots include the autumn foliage at Lake Kinrin, Hitome Hakkei, and the Kuju mountain range. The view of the colorful mountains from the Beppu Ropeway is equally breathtaking and ideal for photography. Additionally, soaking in an onsen while admiring the autumn leaves is a uniquely delightful experience during this season.
Festivals and Events
- Kebesu Festival (October / Kunisaki City)
- The Kebesu Festival is an ancient fire festival passed down in the Kunisaki Peninsula. Its origins remain unknown, but it is known as a ritual in which sparks of fire are showered upon worshippers to pray for good health and ward off illness.
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- Ontayaki Folk Pottery Festival (October / Hita City)
- This festival is held to celebrate and pray for the development of Ontayaki, the traditional ceramic art that has flourished in this region. Local potters and artists participate, showcasing and selling unique works created specifically for this event.
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- Oita's Three Great Bamboo Light Festivals (November / Taketa City, Usuki City, Hita City)
- Among the many bamboo light events held across Oita, these three – Taketa Chikuraku, Usuki Takeyoi, and Tenryo Hita Sennen Akari – are the most renowned. Each festival features stunning displays of lanterns crafted from bamboo, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
Autumn Cuisine
- Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- Renowned for their thick, flavorful flesh and rich aroma, dried shiitake mushrooms from Oita are particularly prized for their intense umami savoriness, one of the five basic tastes alongside sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and bitterness. As Japan's largest producer of dried shiitake, Oita's mushrooms are highly regarded for their large size, robust texture, and exquisite flavor.
- Kuruma Prawns
- These large prawns are considered a delicacy and are can be savored in a variety of ways, from tempura and grilled dishes to shabu-shabu and sashimi. Enjoy the firm, springy texture and rich umami savoriness that make kuruma prawns a must-try ingredient.
- Grapes
- Several types of grapes are grown in Oita Prefecture, with the popular Shine Muscat standing out for its abundant juice, balanced acidity, and delicate, edible skin. For a more hands-on experience, at some locations you can also try picking the grapes.
Grape Picking
Usa City in Oita Prefecture is one of western Japan's leading grape-producing regions. It offers a range of grape varieties, including Shine Muscat, Kyoho, Pione, and Delaware, with numerous locations for grape-picking experiences. Usa is also home to two wineries, Chiisana Wine Kobo and Ajimu Budoshu Kobo, where you can savor wines crafted from high-quality local grapes – a true treat for wine enthusiasts.
Winter (December-February) Climate
Temperature range: 13°C / 3°C (55°F / 37°F)
This is the coldest and driest time of the year. Warm inner layers and knits, along with a thick coat or down jacket, are essential. In addition to a coat, having accessories like gloves and scarves for added warmth is convenient. While snow is relatively rare in most areas, it can accumulate in mountainous regions. Be sure to check conditions in advance and wear slip-resistant shoes for safety.
Winter Highlights
In the harsh winter cold, enjoy touring Oita's onsen. Beyond the famous onsen in Beppu and Yufuin, the region offers abundant hot springs with various water qualities throughout its towns. If you're lucky, you might even experience a snow-viewing bath. At Lake Kinrin, marvel at its ethereal appearance shrouded in morning mist, while the summit of Mt. Tsurumi offers stunning views of glittering rime ice. The contrast between the sparkling frost and the warmth of the onsen is sure to make you forget the winter chill.
Festivals and Events
- Horan Enya (January / Bungotakada City)
- This traditional festival is held to pray for safe voyages. Spectators along the riverbanks send celebratory gifts to young rowers steering decorated boats. The lively event reaches its peak when the rowers dive into the river to retrieve the offerings.
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- Shujo Oni-e (January)
- A traditional event welcoming spring, held primarily at the Rokugo Manzan temples on the Kunisaki Peninsula. After 10 p.m., demons appear in the temple hall, brandishing flaming torches as they perform a distinctive dance.
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- Oita Hina Matsuri Festival (February–March)
- Hina Matsuri, a springtime tradition, involves displaying hina dolls dressed in traditional court attire to pray for the growth and health of young girls. In Oita, hina dolls are showcased at various locations across the prefecture from mid-February to late March.
Winter Cuisine
- Usuki Fugu Pufferfish
- In Usuki, fresh fugu pufferfish can be enjoyed year-round, but winter fugu is particularly exquisite. Thanks to the swift currents of the Kuroshio Current, the flesh is firm and fresh, making it difficult to slice thinly – hence its signature thick cuts. It is typically served as sashimi or in hot pot dishes.
- Seki-Saba Mackerel
- A premium brand fish from Oita Prefecture, caught using traditional pole-and-line fishing. Its firm, slightly golden-hued flesh is rich in flavorful fats. Be sure to try Ryukyu, a traditional dish featuring Seki saba mackerel and other fish marinated in a savory sauce.
- Strawberries
- Strawberries are widely cultivated across the prefecture, with Oita's original Berryts variety standing out for its vibrant red color and high sugar content. It's often described as being a dessert-like strawberry.
Strawberry Picking
Experience the joy of strawberry picking, where you can handpick and savor sweet, juicy strawberries. Alongside Oita's Berryts variety, numerous other types are available for a delightful tasting experience. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Japanese strawberries amidst picturesque scenery!
