Become a local! A Walking Tour of Beppus Arts, Crafts & Onsen

Discovering Beppu’s Hidden Charms: A Walk Through Arts, Crafts, and Onsen Culture

If you’re looking to steer clear of Beppu’s more crowded hot spring spots and instead explore a side of the city that feels genuine and local, this small-group walking tour offers a perfect introduction. Running for just over two hours, it combines the charm of traditional crafts with contemporary art, giving travelers a chance to see Beppu from a different perspective — one that’s more intimate, insightful, and often overlooked.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to meet local artisans face-to-face, gain authentic insights into their craft, and wander through neighborhoods where history and modern life blend seamlessly. It’s a well-paced, thoughtfully curated experience that offers a taste of Beppu’s heritage and creative energy without the hassle of tourist traps.

One potential consideration is that the route and stops may change depending on weather or business hours, so some flexibility is required. The tour is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy walking, cultural exchanges, and discovering the city beyond its famous hot springs. Whether you’re an art lover, a craft collector, or simply eager for a more authentic local experience, this tour could be a highlight of your Beppu visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Explore areas of Beppu rarely featured in travel brochures, engaging directly with artisans and residents.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Learn about the history and current life of Beppu through visits to historic houses, markets, and artist studios.
• Hands-On Opportunities: Observe traditional bamboo crafts and, when available, participate in unique workshops.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a max of 8 travelers, enjoy personalized attention and meaningful interactions.
• Value for Money: For around $64, you gain access to multiple local venues, expert guidance, and unique souvenirs.
• Flexible & Convenient: Starts just a short walk from JR Beppu Station and runs approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, fitting easily into a day of exploring.

Exploring Beppu’s Artistic and Cultural Corners

This tour is a rare opportunity to bypass the crowds and see Beppu through the eyes of locals. It begins right at Beppu Station Market, where you get a snapshot of everyday life — fresh fish, vegetables, and a friendly vibe. Here, you’ll get to interact with local residents, setting the tone for the personal, community-focused experience ahead.
Reviewers love the chance to see and engage with local people in their daily routines, noting that this stop is both lively and authentic.

Next, you visit a bamboo craft factory established in 1908. The craftsmanship here is meticulous, utilizing bamboo sourced locally from Oita Prefecture. Watch artisans at work, admiring their skill and attention to detail. A bonus? You can purchase unique bamboo souvenirs, making this a perfect spot for memorable gifts that carry a sense of place.
Anna_N shared that seeing the bamboo artisans was “really interesting,” and that the factory offered a glimpse into traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

When the schedule allows, the tour surprises with an irregular workshop, giving you a chance to participate hands-on. While limited by instructor availability, this element adds an interactive layer that many travelers find rewarding, especially when witnessing artisans create something beautiful firsthand.

Moving on, the tour visits Space Beppu, a charming community space housed in a century-old Japanese house. Here, history meets contemporary art, with an on-site gallery showcasing local artists’ work. The house also features a history room with old photographs that reveal Beppu’s past, providing a visual story of the city’s evolution.
Reviewers highlight the relaxed atmosphere and the blend of old and new as a highlight, with one mentioning it’s “a place where the old-fashioned and modern meet in harmony.”

The final stop is Kiyoshima Apartment House, where resident artists work and display their creations. Watching artisans at their studios adds a spontaneous and intimate element to the tour, giving you a window into the vibrant local arts scene.
Multiple reviews emphasize how meeting the artists and seeing their studios enriches the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For the price of $64.47, this tour provides admission to all venues, including the bamboo factory, community space, and artist studios. The small group size ensures a comfortable and focused experience. However, travelers should note that food, beverages, souvenirs, and bottled water are excluded — so plan to budget additionally if you wish to dine or buy keepsakes.

The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located just 12 minutes on foot from JR Beppu Station, with clear instructions on how to return afterward, making it easy to incorporate into your day’s plans.

How It’s Structured & What to Expect

The itinerary is designed to maximize local flavor and insightful encounters. Starting at the bustling Beppu Station Market, you’ll spend about 10 minutes soaking up the lively atmosphere — a perfect introduction to local life. The visit to the bamboo factory takes around 30 minutes, where you get to observe artisans at work and have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

The unscheduled workshop adds a spontaneous element, around one hour long, depending on availability. It might be a demonstration or a small craft session, but either way, it’s a chance to see skill and tradition up close.

Following that, your visit to Space Beppu offers a cozy, historical setting for about 20 minutes. This space blends old Japanese architecture with contemporary art and offers a quiet contrast to the bustling market.

Finally, the Kiyoshima Artist Studio gives another 20-minute peek into the artist’s creative process, rounding out the experience with a dynamic, hands-on feel.

Throughout the tour, guides like Masahiro Ide receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and perfect English, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

Authenticity & Value

While at first glance, the cost might seem modest, the value is clear when considering the depth of engagement, access to private artist studios, and the opportunity to purchase handcrafted souvenirs. For those who love arts, crafts, and learning about a city’s soul, this tour offers a curated, genuine look at Beppu’s lesser-known side.

Travelers have appreciated the personalized attention due to the small group size, often capped at 8 people, which allows for meaningful interactions and questions. The tour also offers flexibility; stops may vary depending on weather and business hours, adding a layer of unpredictability but also a chance for personalized experiences.

The reviews reflect strong satisfaction, with many describing it as “the best way to end a trip” or “a truly interesting and educational walk,” emphasizing the tour’s ability to connect visitors with the local community and art scene.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for art lovers, craft enthusiasts, and culturally curious travelers who want to see Beppu beyond its hot springs. It’s ideal for small groups or independent travelers who enjoy walking and engaging directly with locals. Those with moderate physical fitness will find the pace comfortable, as the tour involves walking through various neighborhoods but remains manageable.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic, and insightful glimpse into Beppu’s creative life, this tour delivers in spades. It’s not about ticking off seen-it-all sights but about finding hidden gems and meaningful connections.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour offers a rare window into Beppu’s local arts, crafts, and history, making it a standout choice for travelers eager to experience the city beyond its famous hot springs. The combination of artisan visits, community spaces, and engaging guides creates a well-rounded, memorable experience.

The value for money is high, considering the access to private studios and unique souvenirs, and the small-group format ensures personalized attention. It’s especially suited for those who love discovering local culture, chatting with artists, and soaking in the everyday life of a Japanese city.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Beppu for the first time, this tour provides a meaningful, authentic taste of what makes the city special. It’s a journey into Beppu’s heart — and for many, a highlight of their trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, providing a relaxed yet comprehensive look at Beppu’s arts and crafts scene.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at WANDER COMPASS BEPPU, just a 12-minute walk from JR Beppu Station, with clear directions provided.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking through downtown Beppu, but it remains accessible to most.

What’s included in the price?
All admission fees to the venues visited — including the bamboo factory, community space, and artist studios — are included.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, especially at the bamboo factory where you can purchase locally crafted bamboo items. Other venues might also have unique items, but shopping is not included in the price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The route and stops may change depending on weather conditions, but the tour will still aim to provide meaningful experiences.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it perfect for solo travelers who want a more intimate, social experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially since the tour is popular and on average booked 47 days in advance.

Embark on this journey to discover Beppu from a fresh, local perspective, and enjoy a day full of artistry, history, and authentic Japanese charm.