8 Best Things to Do in Oita (Beppu) in summer (June to August)

“Beppu” City in “Oita” Prefecture is famous for its hot springs, but summer in “Beppu” also has a variety of attractions. We will introduce you in detail to information on how to enjoy summer in “Beppu”, from an overview to fireworks, scenic spots, and gourmet food.

This article will introduce you in detail to the spots you should visit and attractions to see in the summer in “Oita” Prefecture (“Beppu”)!※ The events introduced may change schedules. Please check the official website of the facilities for the dates.

About Summer in “Oita” Prefecture (“Beppu”)

Features and Attractions

In summer, “Beppu” offers not only hot springs but also fireworks and breathtaking natural scenery. There are many unique ways to enjoy summer, such as the “Beppu Jigoku Meguri” (tour of hells) and “Sunayu” (sand baths). Additionally, many summer festivals and fireworks displays are held, where you can experience local culture and seasonal events.

Climate and Clothing Tips

Summer in “Beppu” is humid and hot, similar to Tokyo. June brings high temperatures and humidity due to the rainy season, and from July to August, the full heat of summer arrives. Light and breathable clothing is essential, and it’s recommended to choose clothes made from materials with good ventilation. Particularly, innerwear and tops made of cooling materials are advisable. Don’t forget to bring rain gear for added safety.

Summer Fireworks Spots

Summer in “Beppu” wouldn’t be complete without fireworks festivals. Beautiful fireworks lighting up the night sky make summer in “Beppu” even more vibrant. The following three fireworks festivals are especially recommended.

Musashino Sato Summer Night Festival

This fireworks festival, held in “Musashi” Port in August, features fireworks reflecting off the sea surface. The powerful large fireworks bursting in the sky above the port are a must-see. About 4,000 fireworks light up the night sky, grandly concluding the festival.

Kitsuki City Summer Fireworks Festival

This festival, held in August with the backdrop of “Moriyeban” Bay, features about 3,000 colorful fireworks. The fireworks illuminating the samurai residences and “Kitsuki” Castle are full of Japanese charm.

Summer Scenic Spots

In addition to fireworks, “Beppu” has many scenic spots that are unique to summer. The following three spots are especially recommended.

Kagurame Lake Iris Garden

In early June to the end of June, this iris garden by “Kagurame” Lake blooms with white and purple irises against the backdrop of “Tsurumi” Peak. With 80 varieties and 15,000 iris plants, this spot is a place to soothe your heart in summer “Beppu”.

Beppu Ropeway

The “Beppu Ropeway” offers a refreshing view from the mountain top, with a 10-minute aerial trip. Enjoy the greenery of “Miyama Kirishima” and summer trees, along with beautiful views of “Beppu” Bay. The best time to visit is from mid-June to August.

Oga Farm

This facility, facing “Beppu” Bay, has a rose & herb garden, restaurant, dog run, and more. From mid-July to mid-August, rare sunflowers in yellow, red, and orange bloom in abundance.

Summer Gourmet

Summer in “Beppu” is also full of delicious gourmet foods. There are many dishes made with fresh local ingredients and summer-only delicacies. Here, we introduce summer gourmet that you should definitely try.

Rock Oysters from “Nippou” Coast

Rock oysters harvested from the “Nippou” Coast grow in mineral-rich seawater from the “Kuroshio” current and the mountains, characterized by their large size and rich flavor. At the “Rock Oyster Festival” held from May to August, you can enjoy fresh rock oysters at participating stores and enter a lottery to win a luxurious Ise lobster set.

Yabakei Summer Soba

In “Honyabakei” Town, “Nakatsu” City, “Oita” Prefecture, delicious “summer soba” is available from late June to the end of September. You can enjoy fresh, flavorful soba at roadside stations and Yabakei Soba Road participating stores. It’s a refreshing dish to eat even in the hot summer.

Koneri

The local dish “Koneri” in “Oita” Prefecture is a simple stir-fry of eggplant and green peppers with flour and miso. This dish, made with plenty of summer vegetables, has a homely and comforting taste. Be sure to try it when you visit.