Beppu, Japan

Explore Beppu, Japan: A Gem of Onsen Culture

Beppu, located on the island of Kyushu in Japan, is renowned for its stunning hot springs, breathtaking scenery, and unique cultural offerings. Visiting Beppu on a cruise is a fantastic opportunity to experience the city’s famous onsen (hot springs), indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Fun fact: Beppu is home to one of the largest concentrations of hot springs in the world, boasting more than 2,500 natural springs!

Activities and Attractions in Beppu, Japan

When your cruise ship docks in Beppu, you’ll have a variety of activities and sights to explore:

• Relax in the Onsen: Beppu's hot springs are famous worldwide. Enjoy a soothing soak in one of the many onsen facilities, such as the iconic Takegawara Onsen, where you can experience the unique sand bath.
• Visit the Hells of Beppu: These unique hot spring sites are not for bathing but for viewing! Explore the eight geothermal wonders called "Jigoku," each showcasing the beauty of steaming pools and colourful mineral deposits.
• Try Traditional Kaiseki Cuisine: Experience the delicacies of Japanese cuisine with a multi-course kaiseki meal at a local restaurant. Fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and unique flavours will surely delight your taste buds.
• Explore the Beppu Park: This scenic park offers a peaceful oasis in the city. Stroll through beautiful gardens, admire seasonal flowers, and enjoy views of surrounding hills—perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
• Take a Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy Beppu's picturesque landscapes by hopping on the JR Nippo Line. The train ride offers breathtaking views of mountains, ocean, and rural Japan, providing a unique glimpse into the countryside.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

As you cruise to Beppu, consider visiting these nearby harbours:

• Shimizu, Japan: With stunning views of Mt. Fuji, Shimizu is famous for its fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront. Visit the Shimizu Fish Market to sample local delicacies or explore the scenic trails around the port.
• Hiroshima, Japan: A city steeped in history, Hiroshima is famous for its Peace Memorial Park and Museum dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. Explore the historic Hiroshima Castle and try the local specialty, okonomiyaki.
• Nagasaki, Japan: Known for its picturesque harbor and rich cultural heritage, Nagasaki offers attractions like Glover Garden and the Atomic Bomb Museum. Take a cable car up to Mt. Inasa for a breathtaking view over the city.
• Hong Kong, China: A bustling metropolis, Hong Kong features a blend of East and West. Explore Victoria Peak for stunning skyline views, visit historic temples, and enjoy world-class dining at Dim Sum restaurants.
• Kagoshima, Japan: Known for the active Sakurajima volcano, Kagoshima boasts stunning scenic views and a hot spring culture. Visit the Sengan-en Garden for a taste of traditional Japanese landscape design.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Beppu, Japan

A cruise journey to Beppu opens doors to various enchanting regions:

• Alaska & West Canada: Known for its majestic landscapes, Alaska and West Canada offer stunning coastal scenery, vast wilderness, and wildlife viewing. Encounter breathtaking glaciers and explore charming towns like Victoria and Juneau.
• Australia: Explore the Great Barrier Reef, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife in Australia. Popular destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, offering diverse experiences for every type of traveller.
• Arctic Ocean: A cruise to the Arctic offers breathtaking views of icy landscapes and unique wildlife. Experience the beauty of remote destinations and learn about the indigenous cultures of the region.
• British Isles: This region is steeped in history, with picturesque landscapes and rich culture. Explore iconic sites in England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, including castles, gardens, and vibrant cities.
• Africa: Known for its diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife, Africa offers incredible safari experiences and cultural encounters. Explore destinations like South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt for unmatched adventures.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Beppu, Japan

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features Diamond Princess on itineraries to Beppu, primarily departing from Yokohama (Tokyo). Princess is known for its extensive onboard amenities and enriching shore excursions that allow cruisers to experience the local culture.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 20, Norwegian Cruise Line offers itineraries to Beppu on Norwegian Spirit. Departures mostly occur from Tokyo or Seoul. Norwegian is recognized for its freestyle dining and vibrant onboard entertainment, giving guests flexibility and variety during their trip.
• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4, Cunard features Queen Elizabeth on cruises to Beppu, departing most often from Yokohama (Tokyo). Cunard is known for its luxurious ambiance, outstanding service, and exceptional dining experiences, providing a distinctive ocean travel experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines Visiting Beppu, Japan

• Viking Ocean Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 11 ships, Viking Ocean Cruises includes Viking Orion and Viking Venus on itineraries to Beppu. Departures most often occur from Hong Kong or Tokyo. Viking is known for its culturally enriching experiences and inclusive offerings, focusing on providing immersive excursions at various destinations.
• Seabourn: Operating a fleet of 6, Seabourn features Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Sojourn on itineraries to Beppu, with departures mainly from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Hong Kong. Seabourn is recognized for its luxurious all-suite accommodations and personalized service, creating a unique onboard experience for discerning travellers.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet size of 6, Regent offers itineraries to Beppu on Seven Seas Explorer, departing frequently from Tokyo or Yokohama. Renowned for its all-inclusive luxury, Regent Seven Seas provides exquisite dining and personalized service, ensuring a memorable journey.
• Silversea: Operating a fleet of 13, Silversea features Silver Moon and Silver Dawn visiting Beppu, departing most often from Tokyo or Hong Kong. Silversea specializes in ultra-luxury cruises, offering guests tailored experiences, exquisite cuisine, and unique cultural experiences.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania offers itineraries to Beppu on Regatta and Riviera, departing mainly from Tokyo or Hong Kong. Known for its culinary excellence, Oceania Cruises provide guests with a wide array of dining options and immersive shore excursions.

Visiting Beppu, Japan Throughout the Year

Understanding the seasonal changes can enhance your visit to Beppu. Here’s what to expect:

• Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures range from 25°C to 33°C with occasional rain. This is a popular season for tourists, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, festivals, and beach activities.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Temperatures cool to around 18°C to 26°C; this is an excellent time to explore Beppu’s natural beauty with vibrant autumn foliage and fewer tourists.
• Winter (December, January, February): Mild winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. While it can be colder, visiting the hot springs is especially enjoyable during this season, providing a cozy retreat from the cold.
• Spring (March, April, May): Temperatures rise to around 10°C to 22°C with beautiful cherry blossoms. Spring is a lovely time to visit cultural festivals, enjoy outdoor activities, and witness the beautiful seasonal blooms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beppu, Japan

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Beppu generally range from $1,200 to $3,500 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury cruises may start around $4,500, depending on accommodations and cruise line.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $15 to $50 for casual meals, while fine dining experiences may exceed $80 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Beppu offers a variety of delightful dining options, including fresh seafood restaurants and local izakayas. For shopping, explore local boutiques or souvenir shops for unique Japanese crafts and products.

What are transportation options?

After docking, you’ll find taxis and public transportation options readily available. Beppu also has convenient bus services for exploring nearby attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to have cash for small purchases, especially at local shops and markets.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Beppu is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings. Make sure to drink bottled water and be cautious about food hygiene when dining out.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is Japanese. While many locals are friendly and can communicate in English, learning basic phrases in Japanese can enhance your experience and interactions.

Are you ready to discover the natural beauty and unique experiences that Beppu, Japan has to offer? Book your unforgettable cruise holiday through CruiseAway today and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this incredible destination!