Beppu, situated in Oita Prefecture, is revered as Japan's premier hot spring town in the Kyushu region. Gushing around 270,000 liters of thermal water every minute, hot springs pervade its every corner. In this feature, we introduce some must-visit eateries and distinctive souvenirs unique to Beppu.
Located about two hours from Fukuoka Prefecture, Beppu is easily accessible via the Limited Express Sonic train. This efficient train journey from Hakata Station (博多駅) to Beppu Station (別府駅) takes an hour, with no train changes required.
Must-try restaurants
1. Toyoken (東洋軒) for fried chicken
Oita Prefecture is famed as the home of karaage (friend chicken). Established in 1926, Toyoken is a popular Beppu establishment reputed as the origin of Japan's karaage. Although this is a claim shared by several other restaurants. Unique to this prefecture, karaage is referred to as toriten (とり天).
Toyoken's karaage set is complemented by a special house sauce. In contrast to other regions where karaage is typically served with mayonnaise, Beppu's variant is savored by dipping into this sauce. The chicken's crispy exterior and tender interior have led many to believe that this restaurant indeed pioneered karaage.
Details
・Main branch
Opening hours: 11:00 - 15:30 / 17:00-22:00
・Tokiwa branch
Opening hours: 11:00-16:00 / 17:00 - 18:30
https://www.toyoken-beppu.co.jp
2. Ganso Beppu Ramen (元祖別府ラーメン)
Ganso Beppu Ramen is another eatery that is worth visiting when in Beppu. Ganso means originator and the fact that this restaurant has Beppu in its name suggests it is representative of ramen authentic and unique to Beppu.
What sets this ramen shop apart is its use of lemon kabosu sauce, derived from a fruit native to Oita Prefecture. The soup, a blend of chicken and pork broths, is clear and light, pairing excellently with thin noodles. Adding the lemon kabosu sauce lends a subtle tanginess to the ramen, enhancing its refreshing flavor profile.
Details
Opening hours: 12:00-15:00 / 18:30-22:00 (closed on Wednesdays)
Beppu souvenirs you can buy at the station
The best thing about Beppu Station is you can buy a range of souvenirs before you leave. Check out these carefully curated recommendations.
One standout souvenir is the Kabosu Langue De-Chat—biscuits filled with a delectable Kabosu chocolate cream. As mentioned earlier, Kabosu is a fruit indigenous to Oita Prefecture, and it’s a commonly used ingredient in many local souvenirs.
Kabosu Gaufrette are crispy thin wafers sandwiched with kabosu cream—a perfect combination of sweet and tangy.
This kabosu-flavored fried chicken skin is crunchy and light with a refreshing flavor.
Make your salads exciting with this kabosu dressing. Rich in vitamin C, it has a positive effect on your metabolism and is sure to delight your palate.
Considering Beppu's famed hot springs, bath salts make an ideal souvenir. With Beppu Onsen bath salts, you can recreate the relaxing experience of a Beppu hot spring soak in the comfort of your own home.
You can choose between a wide range of bath salts, all neatly tucked into charming packaging. Look for salts adorned with striking images representing famous Beppu landmarks such as the seven hells (seven hot springs meant for viewing such as the white or blue pond), each adding a unique touch to your at-home onsen experience.
Skincare products crafted from Beppu hot spring water are another great find. Consider investing in a moisturizing lotion infused with the rejuvenating properties of hot spring water from Beppu.
If Beppu's on your itinerary, don't forget to check out these exceptional culinary delights and mementos that truly capture the essence of the town!
