Top 7 Beppu to Oita City Winter Attractions for 2026

Oita City offers amazing winter experiences near Beppu. Explore the best Beppu to Oita City winter attractions this year. The journey between these cities takes very little time. It is a perfect addition to your day trips from Beppu winter itinerary.

How to Travel from Beppu to Oita City

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Lonely Planet Beppu Guide.

You can find the latest updates on Beppu City Official Website.

Traveling between Beppu and Oita City is very simple. Coastal trains run every few minutes between the main stations. The ride takes approximately twelve to fifteen minutes total. It offers beautiful views of the cold winter bay.

Tickets for local trains cost around 280 yen in 2026. You can use an IC card for easy payment. Limited express trains are faster but cost slightly more. Many travelers prefer the local JR Sonic train experience.

Buses also connect the two cities along the coast. The ride takes about thirty minutes on the road. This route passes by several popular seaside tourist spots. You can see the Oita City skyline from afar.

Driving a rental car provides more flexibility for travelers. Many parking lots are available near major Oita attractions. Rental costs start around 6,000 yen per winter day. Winter tires are usually not needed for city driving.

Walking between some attractions in Oita City is very easy. The city center is flat and well-paved for tourists. Most major sites are located near the train station. Public transport options are frequent and very reliable here.

Explore the Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM)

The Oita Prefectural Art Museum is a winter highlight. The building features stunning modern design by Shigeru Ban. Large glass walls allow soft winter light inside. It provides a warm escape from the chilly weather.

Entry fees for adults typically cost 300 yen. Special exhibitions may require a separate, higher priced ticket. Most displays feature local artists and Japanese modern art. Exploring the entire facility takes about two hours.

The cafe inside serves hot tea and local treats. It is a great spot to watch the snow. Sitting here allows you to rest after your walk. Museum shops sell unique souvenirs for your winter trip.

Check the museum schedule before your 2026 winter visit. They often host weekend workshops for international visitors. These events teach traditional crafts and modern art techniques. It is an educational way to spend an afternoon.

The museum is located within walking distance of Oita Station. Look for the large, folding glass doors on entry. The architecture is a piece of art itself. Do not forget to bring your camera for photos.

Marine Life at Umitamago Aquarium

Umitamago Aquarium sits directly on the Oita seaside. The outdoor performance areas offer dramatic views of the sea. Seeing playful marine life is a top winter activity. This is one of the best Beppu to Oita City winter attractions.

Many of the animal tanks are located indoors. This keeps visitors warm while they watch sharks. The walrus performances are famous across all of Japan. You should arrive early to secure a good seat.

Adult admission tickets cost around 2,600 yen in 2026. You can reach the aquarium by bus from Beppu. The bus stop is located directly in front. It is very convenient for families with small kids.

Evening visits allow you to see special light displays. The water tanks glow with soft blue and white. This creates a peaceful mood for winter evening walks. Spend about three hours here to see everything.

The aquarium also features a unique touch pool area. Kids can interact with several safe marine species here. It is an interactive way to learn about nature. Ensure you check the daily show schedule upon arrival.

Mount Takasaki Monkey Park Winter Visit

Takasakiyama Monkey Park is located right next to Umitamago. Hundreds of wild macaques gather here during the winter. They huddle together to stay warm in the cold. Watching their social behavior is a fascinating experience.

Park staff provide food for the monkeys every day. This causes the monkeys to run down the hill. It is a powerful sight to see so many. Keep your hands in your pockets while you walk.

Tickets for the monkey park cost 520 yen. You can buy a combined ticket with the aquarium. This saves you money on your winter day trip. Most people spend one hour at the monkey park.

The park offers a monorail to the main area. This is helpful if you want to avoid hills. Winter views of the bay from here are beautiful. Remember to dress warmly for the outdoor mountain air.

Listen to the guides during the scheduled feeding times. They explain the hierarchy of the two monkey troops. It is a rare chance to see wild animals. The park is open from 9 am daily.

Funai Castle ruins and Winter Illuminations

Funai Castle ruins offer a glimpse into local history. The stone walls and white towers look lovely. In winter, the area hosts spectacular light displays. These illuminations usually begin in late November each year.

Walking through the park at night is very romantic. The lights reflect beautifully on the castle moat. Most people visit after five in the evening. There is no entrance fee for most park areas.

The ruins are a short walk from Oita Station. You will find many signs leading to the site. Many photographers gather here during the cold winter nights. It is a great place to take vacation photos.

Festive markets often set up near the castle gates. You can buy hot wine and grilled local snacks. These stalls provide warmth during your evening castle walk. The atmosphere is very cheerful and welcoming for tourists.

Historical plaques explain the history of the Funai domain. You can learn about the samurai who lived here. It adds deep cultural context to your winter visit. The park is very quiet compared to shopping areas.

Oita City Shopping and Winter Treats

Oita City centers around its huge, modern train station. AMU Plaza offers hundreds of shops and local restaurants. It is an ideal spot to find winter fashion. You can stay indoors and avoid the cold wind.

Try local Oita soul food like chicken tempura (toriten). Another winter favorite is dango-jiru, which is warm soup. Many restaurants on the top floor have city views. Eating here is a highlight for many winter visitors.

The station rooftop features a small temple and garden. You can see the whole city and the mountains. There are also foot baths available for tired feet. It is a relaxing way to end your day.

Check out the Beppu winter travel guide 2026 for more tips. Shopping in Oita is often cheaper than in Beppu. You will find many unique items from Oita prefecture. Spend your final hours here before heading back home.

The underground shopping mall connects the station to main streets. This tunnel keeps you dry and warm while walking. You will find small bakeries and cafes tucked away. Exploring these hidden gems is part of the fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oita City is a perfect winter destination near Beppu. You can enjoy art, nature, and amazing local food. Plan your 2026 winter trip to see these sights. Visit the aquarium or the castle for a great day.

Key Takeaways

• Trains from Beppu take only 15 minutes.
• Umitamago Aquarium and Monkey Park are top choices.
• Enjoy Funai Castle illuminations starting in November.
• Warm up with local dango-jiru noodle soup.

Related reads: polarcityguide.com, beppu to yufuin winter day trip.