🕓 2026/3/20
#tourist spot
Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival | Introducing the highlights, how to enjoy it, and its history
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table of contents
- What is Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival?
- Highlights of Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival
- History of Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival
- How to enjoy Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival
Introduction
Beppu City boasts more natural hot spring sources and a greater volume of geothermal water than anywhere else in Japan. Every spring, this steaming onsen town comes alive with the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival — a celebration that has been honoring the blessings of hot springs for over a century. In 2026, the festival marks its 111th anniversary with special commemorative events, including a new drone light show over Mount Ogi and a dedicated Onsen Food Fest. This guide covers the festival’s rich history, must-see highlights, and practical tips to help you make the most of the 2026 edition.
This festival is a traditional event where the entire region comes together to express gratitude for the blessings of the hot springs, and is full of special events that can only be experienced here, such as the Ogiyama Fire Festival and the Yu Bukkake Festival!
In this article, we will introduce in detail the latest information on the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, which will be held in 2026, as well as the highlights, history, and ways to enjoy it. Why not experience the hot spring culture and festival excitement unique to Beppu? .
- 1. Model course for tourists
- ✅ “Bullet Plan” to enjoy in one day
- ✅ “Hot spring samadhi plan” to thoroughly enjoy in 2 days
- 2. Points to enjoy hot springs
- Make full use of the free access to hot springs!
- 3. Tips for participating in events
- 🔥 Enjoy the Ogiyama Fire Festival in the best location
- 4. Local gourmet & souvenir information
- 🍚 Enjoy local gourmet food at Beppudon Festival
- 5. Advance preparation to enjoy the festival even more
1. What is Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival?
The Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is a traditional festival held every spring in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, to give thanks for the blessings of hot springs. Beppu has eight hot spring areas called “Beppu Hatto”, each with different hot spring quality and culture. In this festival, these hot spring areas come together and a variety of events take place.
This festival is unique to Beppu City, which is known as one of the nation’s leading hot spring areas, and features unique events such as the hot spring themed “Yubukake Festival” and “Flo Marathon.” There are also many events that can only be experienced here, such as the “Ogiyama Fire Festival,” which wraps Mt. Ogiyama in flames.
Every year, local residents as well as hot spring enthusiasts and tourists from all over the country visit, making it a major event that brightens up Beppu in spring.
■ 2026 event information
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Event period | April 1, 2026 (Tuesday) to April 6, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Holding area | All over Beppu city (in front of Beppu station, each hot spring area, Mt. Ogiyama, etc.) |
| Main venue | Beppu Station Street, Ogiyama, various hot spring areas |
| Admission fee | free(Charges apply for some events and experience plans) |
| Free open hot spring | Approximately 88 hot springs in the city |
| Sponsored by | Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival Executive Committee |
| Official website | Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival official website |
2. Highlights of Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival
At the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, a variety of events are held to give thanks for the blessings of hot springs. Here, we will introduce the highlights that are especially noteworthy.
1. Ogiyama Fire Festival (April 2nd)
“A spectacular festival of flames that heralds the arrival of spring”
It is a fantastic burning event in which the entire mountainside of Mt. Ogiyama is set on fire, and the blazing flames dye the night sky red.
It originally started as “extermination of pests to protect the fields”, but now it has become a spring tradition in Beppu.
This sight that can be seen even from a distance is like a painting painted on a huge canvas, and the waves of flame that appear in the darkness of the night are especially impressive.
Standing in front of the roaring flames, you’ll be able to reaffirm the power of Beppu’s hot springs and the grandeur of nature.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Wednesday, April 2, 2026, around 18:00 – ignition |
| Venue | Ogiyama (Beppu City) |
| Highlights | Flames shining in the night sky, a fantastic sight of mountain burning |
| access | Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Beppu Station, parking available (be careful of restricted areas) |
■Recommended points
- The highlight is the impressive flame relay
- It is usually held at night, so you need to take precautions against the cold weather.
- Also popular as a photo spot
2. Yubukkake Festival (April 6th)
“Enjoy the hot springs of Beppu! A festival where everyone will get soaked”
The Yu Bukkake Festival is a frenzied event that culminates in the festival, and involves pouring 111 tons of hot spring water onto each other using buckets and ladles to pray for good health.
It has the meaning of “warding off evil spirits with the power of hot springs,” and for the locals, it is also an “important event to show appreciation for hot springs.”**Tourists are free to participate, and the street in front of the station is filled with enthusiasm, smiles, and lots of hot spring water!
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Sunday, April 6, 2026 Afternoon to Evening |
| Venue | Beppu Station Street |
| How to participate | Possible to participate on the day (waterproof measures required) |
| Highlights | An enthusiastic event where people throw hot spring water at each other |
■Recommended points
- You will get soaked, so bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- Experience the climax of the festival
- It’s hot spring water so it’s not cold!
3. Flo Marathon (April 2nd to 6th)
“Hot spring x marathon! A new style of hot spring experience around Beppu’s Jimo Spring”
Flo Marathon is a new experiential event that combines a hot spring tour and a marathon.
This is an irresistible project for hot spring lovers as you collect hot spring stamps while visiting local public baths (Jimosen).
The “Full Flow Marathon” offers a course that covers 42,195 hot springs, allowing participants to fully enjoy Beppu’s rich spring quality.
It will also give you an opportunity to learn about the hot springs that locals regularly frequent, allowing you to experience Beppu’s hot spring culture more deeply.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Event period | Wednesday, April 2, 2026 – Sunday, April 6, 2026 |
| How to participate | Advance application required (capacity 200 people, participation fee 6,000 yen) |
| Highlights | A unique event where you can collect stamps while visiting hot springs |
| Benefits | Those who complete the bath will receive an original T-shirt. |
■Recommended points
- Ideal for people who like visiting hot springs
- You can also visit “Jimosen” which only locals know about.
- Enjoy both physical strength and relaxation
4. Songkran Festival (April 5th)
“Thailand x Japan! Beppu-style Songkran using hot springs”
In collaboration with the Songkran (water festival) held during the Thai New Year, a special Songkran festival will be held using hot spring water from Beppu.
As a festival with a rich international flavor, it is a valuable opportunity to experience a different culture while staying in Beppu City!
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Saturday, April 5, 2026 |
| Venue | Beppu city (details to be announced later) |
| Highlights | Spray each other with hot spring water using a water gun or hose |
| How to participate | Free participation (wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet) |
■Recommended points
- A unique and international festival
- Thai food stalls also appear
- Bring a water gun and have fun!
5. Steam parade (April 6th)
“A gorgeous costumed procession that decorates the finale of the festival”
On the final day of the festival, a grand costume parade will be held along Beppu Station Street.
It is an event with a sense of unity, where local groups and tourists wear their own costumes and have fun together with the roadside spectators!
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Sunday, April 6, 2026, afternoon |
| Venue | Beppu Station Street |
| Highlights | Local groups and tourists parade in cosplay |
| How to participate | Free to tour (you can support along the road) |
■Recommended points
- Lively atmosphere unique to Beppu
- It’s fun to dress up in costume and participate in the parade.
- You can also see performances of traditional performing arts.
6. 88 hot springs available for free (during period)
During the festival period, approximately 88 hot springs in the city will be open to the public free of charge. This is a great chance to enter the hot springs that usually require a fee for free!
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Event period | April 1, 2026 (Tuesday) to April 6, 2026 (Sunday) |
| Target facility | Hot springs at public baths and inns in Beppu City |
| How to participate | You can bathe freely during the period (please compromise when it is crowded) |
■Recommended points
- 6 days perfect for hot spring lovers
- You can try various spring qualities
- The hot springs are empty early in the morning, so it’s a good idea.
3. History of Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival
The Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is a traditional festival that began to celebrate Beppu’s hot spring culture and give thanks for the blessings of hot springs.Beppu Onsen boasts the highest number of hot springs and the highest amount of hot spring water in Japan, and has been loved by people since ancient times.In order to protect these hot springs and revitalize the region, an event that became the prototype for today’s hot spring festival began in the 1960s.
① Origin of Beppu’s hot spring culture and festivals
-
701 AD (Nara period)
Records of Beppu Onsen are left in the “Bungo no Kuni Fudoki.” It is said that hot springs were already being used around this time and were closely connected to the lives of local people. -
Kamakura period (1185-1333)
It is said that the samurai of the Kamakura shogunate used the hot springs in Beppu for toji (hot spring use for therapeutic purposes). The value of hot springs increased, and hot springs began to attract visitors from all over the world. -
Edo period (1603-1868)
The feudal lord of Bungo Province (present-day Oita Prefecture), the lord of Takeda Castle, promoted the development of hot springs, and the hot spring resort of Beppu became known nationwide.
Around this time, local people hold a “ceremony to thank the hot springs,” and a culture of gratitude for the blessings of hot springs takes root.
②Postwar tourism development and creation of festivals
-
1950s (from 1950)
With the post-war reconstruction, Beppu began to develop as one of Japan’s leading hot spring tourist destinations. The number of tourists increases and efforts are made to spread hot spring culture. -
1964 (Showa 39)
The Beppu City Tourism Association will be taking the lead in holding the first official festival called “Beppu Onsen Thanksgiving Festival.”
At first, the focus was on small-scale rituals performed by local hot spring people. -
1976 (Showa 51)
The Ogiyama field burning event, the predecessor of the current Ogiyama Fire Festival, will be open to tourists.
This makes it a symbolic event of the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival.
③ Expansion of festival scale and national recognition
-
1980s (from 1980)
The official name of the festival was changed to the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, and various hot spring events began to be held in various locations.
An initiative to open local hot spring facilities for free begins, and many tourists begin to visit. -
1990s (1990~)
- The “Yu Bukkake Festival” will be held on a trial basis. At first, the event was only for local residents, but gradually expanded to include tourists.
- The “Steam Parade”, which marks the finale of the festival, has started and has become established as a citizen participation event.
- The performance of the Ogiyama Fire Festival will be strengthened, and the power of mountain burning will become known nationwide.
④ Evolution since the 2000s
-
2000s (from 2000)
- “Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival” is certified as Oita Prefecture’s representative tourism event.
- PR activities for the festival have become more active, and it has developed into an event that attracts hot spring fans from all over the country.
- The “Free Opening of 88 Hot Springs” program will be implemented in earnest, and will become a popular project among foreign tourists visiting Japan.
-
2010 (Heisei 210)
- As part of the Japan Tourism Agency’s “Tourism Nation Promotion Plan,” the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is stepping up promotional activities for foreign visitors to Japan.
- Guided tours for foreigners and multilingual information will increase.
⑤Recent developments and commemorative events
-
2019 (Heisei 31)
- For the first time, a “Flo Marathon” will be held, which combines hot springs and a marathon.
- The “Full Flow Marathon”, which takes you through 42,195 hot springs, has become a hot topic and a popular event for tourists.
-
2020 (Reiwa 2)
- Although some parts of the festival will be scaled back due to the effects of the new coronavirus, online events and live streaming will be held.
- A new method will be adopted to disseminate hot spring culture.
-
2024 (Reiwa 6)
- **To commemorate Beppu City’s 100th anniversary, a special Ogiyama Fire Festival** will be held.
- In addition to a larger-scale mountain burning than in previous years, there will also be a fireworks display, making the festival a hot topic for its unprecedented performances.
-
2026 (Reiwa 7)
- As the “111th commemorative event” of the festival, a “Yu Bukkake Festival”** is planned using 111 tons of hot spring water.
- A collaboration event with Thailand’s water festival “Songkran” will be held in full swing, evolving into an international festival.
4. How to enjoy the Hirosaki Sakura Festival
The Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is packed with events where you can fully enjoy the hot spring culture and local enthusiasm.
If you are visiting as a tourist, you can make the most of your time by planning ahead of time.
Here we will introduce tips to fully enjoy the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, including how to enjoy it for beginners and recommended routes for experienced users.
1. Model course for tourists
You can enjoy the festival efficiently by planning a plan according to your length of stay and purpose.
✅ “Bullet Plan” to enjoy in one day
Schedule for those who want to enjoy the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival in one day!
- 10:00~ Arrival at Beppu Station & experience “Jimosen” with free access to hot springs
- 11:30~ Stroll around the shopping streets around Beppu Station (enjoy local gourmet food)
- 13:00~ Participate in major events (Steam parade or Yubukkake festival)
- 15:00~ Take a break with sweets such as hot spring steamed pudding
- 16:00~ Tourist spots in Beppu (Hell Tour or Umi Jigoku)
- 18:00~ Ogiyama Fire Festival viewing (limited to opening days)
- 20:00~ Last bath at Beppu Onsen
✅ “Hot spring samadhi plan” to thoroughly enjoy in 2 days
Schedule for those who want to enjoy both events and hot springs!
Day 1
- 10:00~ Arrival at Beppu Station & Participate in Flo Marathon (hot spring tour starts)
- 12:00~ Enjoy local gourmet food at Beppudon Festival
- 14:00~ Stroll around the hot spring town (Kannawa Onsen or Myoban Onsen)
- 16:00~ Ogiyama Fire Festival viewing (limited on opening days)
- 19:00~ Stay and dinner at a hot spring inn in Beppu
2nd day
- 8:00~ Early morning hot spring tour & local breakfast (hot spring steamed dishes are recommended)
- 10:00~ Experience the water festival at Songkran Festival
- 12:00~ Participate in the Yu Bukkake Festival and experience the climax of the festival
- 15:00~ Beppu’s scenic spots (Steam Observatory or Umi Jigoku)
- 17:00~ Finish at the hot springs & head home
2. Points to enjoy hot springs
Make full use of the free access to hot springs!
During the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival, approximately 88 hot springs will be open to the public free of charge.
We recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to visit hot springs that you wouldn’t normally go to.
✅ Tips to enjoy free access
- A morning bath is the goal! (It’s less crowded in the morning, so you can take your time soaking in the water.)
- Enjoy the different spring qualities (Kannawa Onsen = sulfur spring, Myoban Onsen = mud bath, etc.)
- Bring towels and a change of clothes (bathrooms often do not have them)
3. Tips for participating in events
🔥 Enjoy the Ogiyama Fire Festival in the best location
The Ogiyama Fire Festival is a very impressive event that takes place at night.
For those who want to see it from a scenic spot, we will introduce recommended viewing points.
✅ Recommended viewing spots
- High ground around Beppu Station (accessible on foot from the station)
- Beppu Tower Observation Deck (The view from the top is the best)
- Viewing area near Mt. Ogi mountain trail (it’s impressive, but you need to reserve your spot early)
✅ Preparation for fun
- Measures against the cold (it gets cold at night, so thick clothing is a good idea)
- Arrive early to avoid crowds (secure your spot around 5pm)
- Tripod and camera for photography (required for night view photography)
4. Local gourmet & souvenir information
🍚 Enjoy local gourmet food at Beppudon Festival
During the festival period, the “Beppudon Festival” will be held, where you can enjoy original rice bowls made with local ingredients.
✅ Recommended menu
- Hell steamed rice bowl (healthy rice bowl made with hot spring steamed food)
- Beppu cold noodle bowl (a creative bowl that is an arrangement of Beppu’s specialty cold noodles)
- Chicken Tendon (Enjoy Oita’s soul food in a bowl)
5. Advance preparation to enjoy the festival even more
In order to fully enjoy the festival, it is important to prepare in advance.
Keep the following points in mind and enjoy the festival comfortably!
✅ Things to bring list
- Clothes that are easy to move in and shoes that are easy to walk in (because you will be walking for a long time)
- Towels and change of clothes (for hot springs and hot water bukkake events)
- Small change or electronic money (useful for food stalls and meals)
- Waterproofing measures for cameras and smartphones
✅ Tips for avoiding crowds
- Please arrive at the venue one hour before the main event starts.
- Refresh yourself at a hot spring between festivals (avoid crowds)
- If you aim for weekdays, you can enjoy it relatively slowly.
What’s New in 2026
The 112th Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is scheduled for April 1–5, 2026. As every year, over 100 public hot spring baths across the city will be opened for free on April 1 (“Hot Spring Appreciation Day”). Signature events such as the Ogiyama Fire Festival, Yukemuri Grand Parade, and the Yu-Bukkake (hot spring splashing) festival are also planned.
For detailed programs and transportation information, check the official Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival website before your visit.
Finally
The Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival is a joyful spring celebration where gratitude for nature’s geothermal gifts meets the vibrant energy of an entire city. From the awe-inspiring Ogiyama Fire Festival lighting up the mountainside to the raucous splashing of the Yu-Bukkake Matsuri, the quirky Furo Marathon, free public bath openings, and streets lined with local delicacies — every sense is engaged in Beppu’s unique hot spring culture. With the 111th anniversary bringing exclusive new programs in 2026, this year’s festival promises to be more memorable than ever. Come experience the one-of-a-kind atmosphere where steam, fire, and celebration converge in the heart of Beppu.
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