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

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

Mobile ticket

Fancy avoiding crowded touristic hotspots and exploring more 'local' areas you likely wouldn't find in a travel brochure? In this exclusive, small-group walking tour, you'll immerse yourself in history & culture whilst strolling through the streets of downtown* Beppu.

Experience the work and daily lives of the local artists who live here, visit a bamboo craft factory** and enjoy a rare chance to meet skilled artisans face to face.

The tour culminates in a visit to a century-old Japanese house comprising a contemporary art gallery and gift shop. The house also features a history room showcasing historic photographs of Beppu’s past.

*Please be aware that:

a) this tour does NOT cover popular touristic spots (such as the 'Hells'), but showcases the city's lesser-known cultural streets & alleys, and

b) you will not be shown inside an onsen building

**Please also note that due to the possibility of businesses varying opening times, the route & places visited may be subject to change.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Admission fees for each facility

Food, beverage and souvenir costs excluded

Bottled water

What To Expect

Beppu Station Market

Witness first-hand a local market selling fresh fish and vegetables, and enjoy a rare chance to interact with local Japanese residents.

10 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Since its establishment in 1908, you'll be able to observe bamboo products being meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, utilising local bamboo from Oita Prefecture. As well as seeing the artisans at work, you'll also be able to purchase bamboo products - ideal, unique souvenirs to take home with you!

30 minutes • Admission Included

Options

A private walking tour

Private Tour

Become a local! A walking tour of Beppu’s arts, crafts & onsen

Become a local! A Cycling Tour

Cycling: We will use bicycles to ride around the downtown of Beppu!

Reviews

4.89

35 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Wonderful private walking tour of Beppu.
Susan D,
Jun 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Wonderful private walking tour in Beppu. Highlight was visiting a locals house and playing the harp with her. She served tea and we also had an origami lesson. This tour was very art focused.
Beppu
Janice J,
May 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Fascinating walk through back streets of Beppu and the bamboo factory is not too be missed. Very knowledgeable tour guide Lou.
Do it! You won’t regret it
Anna N,
Jul 2, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Had an amazing time learning about Beppu and seeing many different things. The guide was really informative, kind and funny. His English was also perfect. We really enjoyed it. Thank you!
Fabulous guide, Masahiro Ide and fun walk through Beppu.
Penny F,
Apr 19, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Masahiro Ide was a marvelous guide! My husband and I had a terrific time with him. We would never have found the places he took us to on our own. It was our final day in Japan after 3 weeks and a wonderful way to end our trip. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to be guided around Beppu.
Truly a comfortable walking tour of Hidden Gems up close. Loved the Bamboo Factory & Artists’ studios!
LAUREEN T,
Apr 12, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Masa took us to places we would not have seen on our own and shared good information about historical buildings, Artists’ residence & studios, quaint bath houses, hidden family restaurants & Cha-san’s bamboo factory. Speaking first hand with a gifted artist gave us a personal opportunity to learn about her dedication and sacrifices she makes to create her stunning masterpieces. Visiting & learning so much about bamboo gave us a new way of appreciating the amount of work and dedication that goes into making bamboo products. The value of bamboo products hand made in Beppu is much greater in our minds today. We are enjoying the bamboo speakers’ sound quality! Thank you so much, Masa!!