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

If you’re after a different perspective on Beppu beyond its famous hot springs, this walking tour offers a charming glimpse into the city’s lesser-known arts and crafts scene. Rather than crowded tourist spots, you’ll explore quiet alleyways and local neighborhoods, giving you a chance to connect with the real Beppu. The guided experience is designed to showcase the city’s artistic soul and traditional crafts, with plenty of opportunities to interact with artisans and locals alike.

What we love about this tour is how it balances authenticity with a relaxed pace—no rushing through sights, just genuine insights and small-group intimacy. The stops at a bamboo craft factory, artist residences, and a century-old Japanese house make it feel like stepping into Beppu’s hidden world. Plus, the knowledgeable guides bring the stories and skills of the city to life, making every moment memorable.

One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include the popular “Hells” or visits inside onsen facilities, so it’s best for travelers interested in culture rather than thermal sightseeing. It’s perfect for those eager to explore local crafts, arts, and lesser-known neighborhoods, especially if you prefer small-group experiences over large tour buses.

This tour suits travelers craving an authentic, arts-focused experience that skips the crowds—ideal if you love discovering local artisans and enjoying everyday Japanese life.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Focuses on Beppu’s lesser-known arts and crafts scenes instead of tourist-heavy spots.
• Skilled Artisans: Meet artisans at a bamboo factory and see their craftsmanship firsthand.
• Cultural Atmosphere: Explore artist residences and a century-old house with contemporary art and history exhibits.
• Small Group Size: Ensures personalized attention and meaningful interactions.
• Flexible Route: Route may vary depending on business hours and weather, adding a spontaneous touch.
• Value for Money: At $61, it offers a rich cultural experience with multiple stops and insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Beppu’s Hidden Charm: A Practical Breakdown

Introduction to the Tour

This walking tour guides you through the quieter, more artistic corners of Beppu, away from the famous hot springs and tourist crowds. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s designed to give you an authentic look at local life, craft traditions, and contemporary art. The small-group format (usually just a handful of participants) makes the experience intimate, allowing you to really connect with guides and artisans.

Meeting Point and Duration

You’ll start your journey at Beppu Station’s Tourist Information Centre, just outside the east exit, conveniently located for travelers arriving by train. The tour lasts roughly 2-2.5 hours, making it a manageable and enriching introduction to Beppu’s local culture without taking up your entire day.

What Makes This Tour Special

Small group size means you get personalized insights and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The route is carefully curated to showcase the city’s lesser-known cultural streets, providing a contrast to the more crowded attractions. This focus on authentic local life is a major draw for travelers craving depth over superficial sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Beppu Station Market (10 minutes)

Your tour begins at the Beppu Station Market, a lively hub where locals buy fresh fish, vegetables, and other produce. It’s a fantastic spot to observe everyday life—chatting with vendors and catching the aroma of freshly caught seafood. While brief, this stop offers a taste of local commerce and rhythms of daily Beppu life.

Nagai Bamboo Factory (30 minutes)

Next, you’ll visit a bamboo craft factory that’s been operating since 1908. Here, you’ll see artisans carefully shaping bamboo into various products—from kitchenware to decorative items—using techniques passed down through generations. The craftsmanship on display is impressive, and you’ll appreciate the patience and skill involved. Plus, many visitors find it tempting to purchase souvenirs directly from the workshop—handmade, authentic, and meaningful.

Reviewers rave about this stop, with one saying, “The bamboo factory and the artist’s booth were very impressive.” Knowing you can buy directly from the artisans adds a tangible value to this experience, transforming souvenirs into memories of your visit.

Kiyoshima Apartment Artist Residence (20 minutes)

The tour continues at Kiyoshima Apartments, home to many local artists. Walking through, you’ll see their studios, view artworks, and get a sense of their creative processes. It’s a rare chance to meet artists in their living and working space, breaking down the barriers between art and life.

Multiple reviewers mention how engaging and friendly the guides are, with one highlighting the “very good English skills” which make communication smooth and enriching. The atmosphere here is relaxed, inviting visitors to ask questions about techniques, inspiration, and life as an artist.

Space Beppu & Local Exhibits (20 minutes)

Finally, your route takes you to Space Beppu, a contemporary art space that also hosts exhibits about Beppu’s past. Here, you can enjoy local artwork and learn about the city’s development through historic photographs. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind and reflect on the creative and historical layers of Beppu.

The Value of This Experience

While the price tag of $61 might seem modest, it packs in substantially more than just sightseeing. You’re paying for:

• Authentic encounters with local artisans, which often isn’t possible on larger, commercial tours.
• Insight into traditional crafts like bamboo work, which are becoming rarer in the modern world.
• A chance to explore quiet neighborhoods and hidden art spots, providing a more genuine sense of Beppu’s cultural landscape.
• A small-group setting that encourages meaningful conversations and personalized attention.

The tour also includes all admission fees for the stops, further elevating its value. You won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the experience feels well-rounded for the price.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring alleys.
• The tour is generally suitable for ages 0–80, but it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems.
• Remember that the route may change if some businesses are closed or have different hours—flexibility is key!
• Bring some cash if you’re interested in buying souvenirs, as many shops accept card but not all.
• The tour starts promptly at Beppu Station’s Wander Compass, so arrive five minutes early to check in.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to explore Beppu beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re curious about traditional Japanese crafts or want to meet local artists in their environment, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer smaller groups and personalized experiences over large, rushed tours.

If you’re after thermal baths or famous “Hells,” this tour isn’t the right fit—but if you want a meaningful, behind-the-scenes look at Beppu’s creative heartbeat, it’s a standout option.

FAQ

Does the tour include visits inside an onsen? No, the tour focuses on arts and crafts, and there are no inside visits to onsen facilities.

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, it’s open to ages 0-80, but may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues due to walking.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

What’s included in the price? All admission fees for the stops listed are included, but food, beverages, and souvenirs are not.

Is the tour language-specific? The guide provides both Japanese and English commentary.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a recommended time of day to take the tour? You should check availability for start times, but morning or early afternoon tends to work best for sightseeing.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes and some cash for souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour of Beppu offers a refreshing alternative to the usual thermal attractions. It’s a rare opportunity to look behind the scenes of local crafts and meet artists directly in their environment. With knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and a focus on authentic culture, it provides real value for travelers seeking depth and connection.

Ideal for art lovers, curious explorers, and those who want to experience Beppu’s soul beyond the crowds. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, making every conversation and discovery meaningful. While it doesn’t include the famous hot springs, the tour’s intimate, arts-focused approach makes it a highlight for many visitors.

If you’re eager to see a different side of Beppu—one filled with creativity, tradition, and local flavor—this tour is a fantastic choice that balances fun, education, and cultural appreciation.

To sum it up, this walking tour is more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with local artisans, experience traditional crafts firsthand, and gain a more nuanced understanding of Beppu’s cultural landscape. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about Japan’s local life, it offers a meaningful, memorable experience that’s well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: