Become a Local! a Walking Tour of Beppu’S Arts, Crafts&Onsen

Beppu is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and the "Become a Local! A Walking Tour of Beppu’s Arts, Crafts & Onsen" is an opportunity to take in it. Guided by bilingual experts, the tour takes participants on a journey through the local onsen culture, a historic bamboo factory, and an artists’ community. With stops at the Beppu Station Market and Kamiya Onsen, this tour promises an authentic experience that’ll leave you wanting more.

Key Points

• This 2-hour walking tour in Beppu, Japan, offers an immersive experience in the city’s local onsen culture, artisanal crafts, and vibrant artistic community.
• The tour includes visits to a 115-year-old bamboo factory, Kiyoshima Apartment’s artist studios, and the opportunity to taste mineral-rich onsen water at Kamiya Onsen.
• Guests can explore the Beppu Station Market, gaining insights into the daily lives of local residents and preparing for the cultural experiences ahead.
• The tour provides a chance to interact with local artists, learn about the history and significance of bamboo in Beppu, and purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
• The tour culminates in a visit to Space Beppu, a cultural hub featuring the Beppu Historical Museum and various artist exhibitions, immersing guests in the city’s vibrant artistic atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This walking tour, titled "Become a local! A Walking Tour of Beppu’s Arts, Crafts & Onsen," takes visitors on a 2-hour journey through the city.

Priced at Kč 1,112 per person, the private group tour is led by English and Japanese-speaking guides.

Highlights include visiting a 115-year-old bamboo factory, exploring the artistic Kiyoshima Apartment, and tasting drinkable onsen water.

The tour meets at the bronze statue near Beppu Station’s west exit.

It’s advisable to check availability and book early, as the tour is likely to sell out.

Cancellations made 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

Tour Highlights

The walking tour highlights the local onsen culture and how residents enjoy hot springs.

Visitors will observe skilled artisans crafting bamboo products at a 115-year-old factory.

The tour explores the artistic atmosphere at the Kiyoshima Apartment, home to local artists showcasing their works.

Guests can taste the smooth, drinkable onsen water at Kamiya Onsen and learn about its benefits.

The tour also includes a visit to Space Beppu, featuring the Beppu Historical Museum and various artist exhibitions, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant local community.

Beppu Station Market

Visitors begin the walking tour by exploring the Beppu Station Market, a lively hub for fresh local produce and seafood.

Here, they can browse stalls offering an array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and the day’s catch from the nearby ocean.

The market provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Beppu residents, who come to shop for their ingredients.

Though brief, this initial stop sets the stage for the culture to come, whetting the appetite for the artisanal crafts and relaxing onsen experiences that await on the rest of the tour.

Nagai Bamboo Factory

After exploring the lively Beppu Station Market, the tour moves to the Nagai Bamboo Factory, a 115-year-old hotel that showcases the region’s long-standing tradition of bamboo craftsmanship.

Visitors can observe skilled artisans at work, creating intricate bamboo products. The tour highlights three key aspects of the factory:

1. Witnessing the meticulous process of bamboo weaving and shaping
2. Opportunities to purchase unique bamboo souvenirs and gifts
3. Learning about the history and cultural significance of bamboo in Beppu

Taking in this traditional craft setting provides a deeper appreciation for Beppu’s rich heritage.

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Kiyoshima Apartment

Kiyoshima Apartment is the next stop on the tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the artistic atmosphere of Beppu.

Nestled among residential buildings, this unique complex is home to local artists who showcase their work in the various studios and galleries. Guests can wander through the charming courtyards, interact with the artists, and even purchase handcrafted souvenirs.

The tour guide provides insights into the history and significance of this creative hub, highlighting how it fosters a vibrant community of talented individuals.

Exploring Kiyoshima Apartment is an opportunity to take in Beppu’s thriving arts and culture scene.

Kamiya Onsen

Quenching one’s thirst at Kamiya Onsen is a unique opportunity to experience Beppu’s renowned hot spring culture.

Visitors can:

1. Taste the smooth, mineral-rich Onsen water that flows directly from the ground.
2. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of the water, which is believed to aid in digestion and circulation.
3. Appreciate the tranquil atmosphere as they sip the water and enjoy the local way of life.

This 5-minute stop provides a refreshing introduction to Beppu’s Onsen traditions, whetting the appetite for further exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Space Beppu

Following the Kamiya Onsen experience, visitors can next explore Space Beppu, a multifaceted cultural hub featuring the Beppu Historical Museum and various artist exhibitions.

Here, they can enjoy the rich history and vibrant artistic atmosphere of Beppu. The museum showcases the city’s fascinating past, while the rotating art displays offer insights into the local creative community.

Guests can spend time relaxing and interacting with residents, gaining a deeper understanding of Beppu’s cultural heritage. The diverse offerings at Space Beppu provide a well-rounded conclusion to the walking tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The walking tour includes the admission fees for each featured facility on the itinerary. This covers your access to:

1. Nagai Bamboo Factory, where you can observe skilled artisans at work.

2. Kiyoshima Apartment, which allows you to meet local artists and see their creations.

3. Kamiya Onsen, where you can taste the smooth onsen water and learn about its benefits.

However, the tour doesn’t include food, beverages, souvenirs, or bottled water.

Participants are responsible for these additional expenses during the 2-hour exploration of Beppu’s arts, crafts, and onsen culture.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to fully enjoy the walking experience and activities. Casual attire is suitable for this relaxed and immersive cultural exploration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. However, you can purchase snacks and beverages during the tour at the local market or enjoy the complimentary onsen water tasting at Kamiya Onsen.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed during the tour. Visitors are welcome to capture photos of the sights and artisans, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting the activities or experiences.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall price of Kč 1,112 per person is already a reasonable rate for this private, guided walking tour experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour’s standard duration is 2 hours, but visitors can opt to extend it for an additional fee. This allows more time to explore the highlights and enjoy Beppu’s arts, crafts, and onsen culture.

Sum Up

This tour offers an immersive experience that showcases Beppu’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the local onsen culture, witness the traditional craft of bamboo making, and interact with artisans. The tour also includes a visit to the Beppu Station Market and a chance to taste mineral-rich onsen water, providing an authentic taste of the city’s offerings. It’s an ideal way for travelers to become a local and deeply engage with Beppu’s vibrant arts, crafts, and onsen traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: