Oita

Oita is known for its hot springs, so a visit to one or more of the many onsen is a must-do activity. The Usuki Stone Buddhas are also a popular attraction, as are the Takasakiyama Monkey Park, and the Oita City Art Museum. If you're interested in history, don't miss the Hiji Castle Ruins or the Funai Castle Ruins.

One unique activity in Oita is viewing the hot springs from a boat. You can also participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, or try your hand at making soba noodles. For something more active, consider hiking up Mount Yufu or taking a bike tour of the countryside.

The Takasakiyama Monkey Park is a great activity for families with kids, as is the African Safari Park. You might also enjoy a visit to the Oita Marine Palace Aquarium, or a day at the beach at Beppu Bay.

Oita is home to many great hot springs, but some of the most popular include Beppu Onsen, Yufuin Onsen, and Kurokawa Onsen. Each has its own unique features and atmosphere, so it's worth trying a few to find your favorite.

The best time of year to visit Oita is between March and May, or between September and November. During these times, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds than during the peak summer months. However, if you're interested in seeing the cherry blossoms, plan your trip for late March or early April.

Oita is known for its soba noodles, which are made from buckwheat flour and served cold in the summer and hot in the winter. You might also try toriten, which is a type of tempura made with chicken. And of course, you can't visit Oita without trying some of the local seafood, such as sushi or sashimi.

There are many budget-friendly options for accommodations in Oita, including guesthouses, hostels, and capsule hotels. Some popular choices include Guesthouse Asora, Khaosan Beppu, and Oita Oasis Tower Hotel.

If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, consider staying at one of the many ryokans in Oita. Some popular options include Yufuin Yumeguri Hotel Sankouen and Ryokan Sanga. Alternatively, you might consider booking a room at the Beppu Onsen Hotel Hanamizuki for its stunning views of Beppu Bay.

The easiest way to get to Oita is by flying into Oita Airport, which has connections to major cities in Japan such as Tokyo and Osaka. From the airport, you can take a bus or train to your destination. Alternatively, you can take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo or Osaka to Beppu or Oita Station.

If you have time, there are several great day trips you can take from Oita. Beppu is just a short train ride away and is known for its many hot springs. Yufuin is another popular destination, with its charming streets and beautiful scenery. You might also consider visiting Usuki, which is known for its impressive collection of stone Buddhas.