7 days in Beppu, Yufu & Aso Itinerary

The resort town of Beppu puts the geothermal nature of the region to good use.

Get a sense of the local culture at Usajingu Shrine and Nioza Rekishi no Michi. Step out of the city life by going to Umi Jigoku and Hells of Beppu. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Beppu: Usuki (Fukura Tenmangu, Usuki Samurai House Streets, &more) and Usa (Usajingu Shrine Jogu & Usajingu Shrine Saidaimon). There's much more to do: indulge in some personalized pampering at some of the best spas, see the interesting displays at Oita Fragrance Museum, don't miss a visit to Jigokumushikobo Kannawa, and witness a stunning natural landmark at Shiraike Jigoku.

To see other places to visit, maps, photos, and tourist information, use the Beppu trip planner.

Nagoya to Beppu is an approximately 4-hour flight. You can also take a train; or drive. Traveling from Nagoya in December, you will find days in Beppu are a bit warmer (13°C), and nights are about the same (6°C). Wrap up your sightseeing on the 27th (Sun) to allow time to drive to Yufu.

Discover widely renowned onsens on a tour of Yufu, a tranquil town overlooked by a two-peaked mountain.

On the 27th (Sun), enjoy breathtaking views from Sagiridai Observatory.

To see other places to visit and other tourist information, you can read our Yufu trip itinerary site.

Traveling by car from Beppu to Yufu takes an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train. In December, plan for daily highs up to 13°C, and evening lows to 6°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 28th (Mon) so you can go by car to Aso.

Formed in 2005 after the merger of several smaller towns, Aso still offers a break from the urbane.

On the 29th (Tue), contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Kurokawa Jizoson, test the waters at Kurokawa Onsen, take in the spiritual surroundings of Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, get impressive views of Mt. Aso, then take a memorable drive along Kusasenrigahama, and finally see the interesting displays at Aso Volcano Museum. Here are some ideas for day two: take some stellar pictures from Daikanbo, then take in the dramatic scenery at Nabegataki Falls, and then make a trip to Shimonjyo Oichou.

To find traveler tips, photos, where to stay, and other tourist information, read our Aso day trip app.

Traveling by car from Yufu to Aso takes 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. Traveling from Yufu in December, expect a bit cooler with lows of 3°C in Aso. On the 31st (Thu), you'll have the morning to explore before heading back home.