8 Best Things to Do in Oita (Beppu) in autumn (September to November)

Oita Prefecture is famous for its hot springs, but its charm is further enhanced in the autumn season. The fall foliage turns vibrant, and you can enjoy it together with the hot springs. Autumn in Beppu is the best season for tourism, with mild and comfortable weather. This article introduces the features of Beppu in autumn, recommended spots, events, and gourmet experiences.

This article provides detailed information about spots to visit and highlights in autumn Oita!

※Please note that the event dates may change. Check the official websites of the facilities for the latest schedules.

About Autumn in Oita (Beppu)

Features and Attractions

Autumn in Beppu is characterized by stunning fall foliage. The contrast between the steam from the hot springs and the colorful leaves is a sight to behold. Additionally, the number of tourists decreases in the fall, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs at a leisurely pace. Beppu’s hot springs are known for their detoxifying effects, warming you from the core. Soaking in the hot springs in the crisp autumn air is perfect for relieving daily fatigue.

Climate and Clothing Tips

September still has lingering summer heat, but it gets cooler in October, and you may feel cold in November. While the days are often warm, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it is convenient to wear layers. Bringing a light jacket or cardigan will help you adapt to temperature changes.

Fall Foliage Spots

There are numerous spots in Beppu where you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage. Here are three recommended locations.

Shiraitodaki

“Shiraitodaki” is a famous fall foliage spot located in Beppu City. The scenery of moss-covered stone bridges and fall foliage is beautiful, allowing you to enjoy a quintessential autumn landscape. Every November, the “Momiji Matsuri” (Maple Festival) is held, where you can enjoy sweet sake.

Beppu Park

“Beppu Park” reaches its peak foliage in November and is a beautiful spot where the contrast between bamboo groves and fall leaves can be enjoyed. During the fall foliage season, you can also enjoy the fragrance of “Kinmokusei” (fragrant olive). There is a café within the park where you can enjoy a warm coffee while looking at the foliage.

Beppu Ropeway to Tsurumidake

The Beppu Ropeway, which takes you to the summit of “Tsurumidake,” offers beautiful fall foliage from mid-October to mid-November. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Beppu Bay and even as far as Shikoku. Along the way, don’t miss the rare sight of fall foliage and winter cherry blossoms blooming together at the base of the mountain.

Festivals and Events

In addition to the fall foliage, various festivals and events are held in Beppu during autumn. Here are some recommended events.

Doburoku Festival at Shirahige Tarahime Shrine

The “Doburoku Festival” held every October at “Shirahige Tarahime Shrine” is a traditional festival with over 1,300 years of history. It is a sake brewing ritual where “doburoku” (cloudy sake) is offered to the gods, and it is also served to visitors. This festival is held to give thanks for bountiful harvests and attracts many locals and tourists alike. During the festival period, the area around the shrine becomes lively, and you can enjoy local specialties and food stalls.

Higashi-Kyushu Ise Ebi Kaido Ise Ebi Festival

The annual “Higashi-Kyushu Ise Ebi Kaido Ise Ebi Festival” allows you to enjoy fresh Ise Ebi (spiny lobster) dishes for three months starting from September when the lobster fishing season opens. The Ise Ebi caught in the high-quality fishing grounds influenced by the Kuroshio Current are popular as good luck charms for longevity.

Autumn Gourmet

In autumn Beppu, you can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes made from local ingredients. Here are some recommended autumn gourmet foods.

Usuki Fugu

“Usuki” city is known for its fugu (pufferfish), which has firm flesh and is especially delicious when served as sashimi. The local fugu cuisine association offers fresh fugu prepared that morning, allowing you to enjoy thick-cut fugu sashimi with a chewy texture. Fugu, which is in season in autumn, is particularly tasty, so be sure to try it when you visit.

Tsukumi Mikan

The mikan (mandarin oranges) grown in “Tsukumi” city are sweet and rich in vitamin C. In autumn, fresh mikans that have soaked up plenty of sunlight are harvested, and their taste is unforgettable once you’ve tried them. You can purchase them at local markets or roadside stations, so be sure to take some home as souvenirs.

Moika (Aoriika)

Moika (Aoriika, or bigfin reef squid) raised in “Bungo Suido” has thick flesh and a sticky texture. In autumn, they grow larger, and their deliciousness is even more pronounced. Especially, “ichiyaboshi” (overnight dried squid) is an excellent accompaniment to sake and can be enjoyed at local izakayas and restaurants.