• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
GO TO EXPAT LIVING SINGAPORE
GET OUR NEWSLETTER

Expat Living Hong Kong HomepageExpat Living Hong Kong

Moving to Hong Kong and not sure where to start? Expat Living is the essential lifestyle guide to living in Hong Kong.

Menu
  • Living In Hong Kong
      • Living Here
      • Where To Live
      • Schools
      • For Guys
        • School news - new schools in Hong Kong, new curriculums, new facilities and more!What’s new on the school scene?
        • Shopping in Hong Kong - K11 MuseaThe ultimate guide to shopping in Hong Kong
        • Handy Hong Kong smartphone apps
        • Guide to Chinese New Year traditions
      • View all
    Close
  • Things To Do
      • Things To Do
      • What’s On/Calendar
      • Competitions & Offers
        • Exploring Hong Kong - Lamma IslandTop spots to enjoy HK’s great outdoors
        • Guide to Chinese New Year traditions
        • What to watch – or listen to…
        • 9 family-friendly hikes in Hong Kong
      • View all
    Close
  • Kids
      • Activities & Things To Do
      • Education & Enrichment
      • Health & Wellness
      • Mums & Babies
      • Podcasts
      • Kids Offers
        • School news - new schools in Hong Kong, new curriculums, new facilities and more!What’s new on the school scene?
        • jobs of the futurePreparing children for the jobs of the future
        • Language courses for all the family
        • Where to get stylish kid-friendly mats
      • View all
    Close
  • Homes
      • Home Décor
      • Readers Homes
        • Where to buy household essentials in Hong KongWhere to buy household essentials
        • Heveya mattress - eco-friendly bedroom furniture, sustainable productsGreat ways to go “green” in the bedroom
        • Luxury homes for lease in Hong Kong
        • Beautiful ginger jar lamps for your home
      • View all
    Close
  • Travel
      • Short Breaks
      • Further Afield
      • Travel News & Offers
        • Beach escapes - Gili Lankanfushi – MaldivesPlan ahead: 8 great beach escapes
        • Top skiing destinations - Whistler, CanadaStunning ski stays in Europe and beyond
        • Mongolia - kidsA family adventure in Mongolia
        • Where to stay and what to do in Thailand - MerdekaQuick getaways: Where to go in Thailand
      • View all
    Close
  • Wine & Dine
      • Recipes & Groceries
      • Bars & Restaurants
        • Pork chopsRecipe: Pork Chops with Apple and Creamy Mash
        • Carrot and lentil soup recipeRecipe: Carrot and Lentil Soup
        • Vegetarian recipe: Vietnamese rice roll with quorn mince and bolognese sauce5 meat-free meal ideas to try
        • Chocolate Tiffin - RecipeNo-bake Chocolate Tiffin Recipe
      • View all
    Close
  • Style & Beauty
      • Fashion
      • Hair & Beauty
        • Shopping in Hong Kong - K11 MuseaThe ultimate guide to shopping in Hong Kong
        • Fashion in Hong Kong - Sparks activewearFashion news: the latest launches
        • online shopping websites21 fashion websites shipping to HK
        • Buying diamonds - The Diamond Registry can offer competitive pricing as a major international diamond distributor.Looking for a good deal on diamonds?
      • View all
    Close
  • Health & Fitness
      • Medical & Dental
      • Fitness
      • Wellness
        • Gyms in Hong Kong - best places for keeping fit8 great places to go to keep in shape
        • Home workout5 workout moves you can do at home
        • Central & Stanley Wellness - functional medicine treatmentFunctional medicine and how it helps
        • KAMA CBD OilWhat is CBD and can it help your health?
      • View all
    Close
  • Shop
      • Magazine
      • Advertise With Us
        • December – February 2021
        • DEC-FEB 2020 – $36 (USUAL PRICE $48)
        • City Guide 2020-2021
        • City Guide 2020-2021 – $28
      • View all
    Close
Home » Travel » 4 great things to do in Oita, Japan

4 great things to do in Oita, Japan

4 March, 2019 by Rebecca Simpson 5 Min Read

https://expatliving.hk/rugby-world-cup-japan-things-to-do-in-oita/

If you got lucky and scored tickets to this year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan (20 September to 2 November), you’re in for a treat. There are 12 venues across the country that are hosting matches, including Oita prefecture in Kyushu. Oita will be home to five Cup fixtures, including the pool matches of tournament favourites New Zealand, along with two quarter-finals.

But what’s happening in Oita in between games? Or, dare I say it… what’s on offer for those of us who aren’t there purely for the rugby? Gasp! Happily, Oita is full of amazing things to explore. Here are some must-dos.

Imagine yourself relaxing in this hot spring after a tough game

#1 ONSEN INDULGENCE (HOT SPRING SPAS)

Japan is famous for its onsens, which are bathhouses and spa facilities that use heated water from natural hot springs. These hot spring facilities offer unrivalled levels of relaxation and sometimes health benefits from the minerals in the water. The heat source is also used in some culinary experiences; it’s believed that cooking via natural steam intensifies flavours.

Onsens are a unique and graceful Japanese experience all visitors should try while in Japan – and Oita prefecture just happens to be the onsen capital of the country! The prefecture has the largest number of hot springs in the country, so there’s no excuses. There’s something for everyone, too. Try one of Oita’s outdoor onsens and you’ll be surrounded by nature while you soak in the mineral hot springs – an incredible chance to slow down and connect with the natural world. Oita also offers a variety of private bath experiences that range from affordable and family-friendly, to truly luxurious places where you’ll unwind and forget not only all your own troubles, but those your home country might be having on the rugby pitch!

Discover onsen options here

Grab your parasol and gracefully explore Kitsuki Castle Town in Oita Prefecture

#2 KITSUKI CASTLE TOWN

Ever wanted to get dolled up in a kimono and experience the glamour of traditional Japanese dress? Oita’s Kitsuki Castle Town is just the place to make your dreams come true. Spend the day feeling elegant while you explore this cute town and all its history in a beautiful kimono.

Not into kimonos? Kitsuki offers more than a day of beautiful fabric and once-in-a-lifetime fashion moments – it has a “tough” side too. This was once a samurai stronghold. The town will give you an interesting peek into the Edo period, a time when samurais flourished. There’s also a pretty beach that offers a variety of fun water sports like stand-up paddle boarding for those who like to get active.

Foodies will need to get their cameras ready for all the edible delights in Kitsuki Castle Town. Try taking yourself back in time by experiencing a traditional tea ceremony, 1875 style, at Tomaya Tea Emporium – matcha powdered tea and delicate sweets never tasted so good.

See a Kitsuki guide here

Oita offers an endless seafood bounty, including the prefectures famed Fugu

#3 FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD

Oita prefecture has over 700km of coastline, so it’s no surprise that seafood is central to the area’s culinary offerings. This is the place to try Fugu (blow fish), a fine dining favourite that’s cut thick when served as sashimi. You can also try Fugu fried or with rice porridge. Oita is famous across Japan for its mackerel sashimi, look out for Seki-aji and Seki-saba – two well-known sashimi brands the locals devour.

Also keep an eye out for Mushi Ryori options on menus. These are onsen dishes, or steamed cuisines. Some restaurants will allow you to steam your own vegetables, eggs, and meat using a natural steam source – it’s a fun and healthy option to try. For those looking for a post-match carb fix, try some Dango-jiru, thick wheat noodles cooked in miso soup. This old-school local food will hit the spot after the game.

No rugby trip would be complete without a few drinks, right? While in Oita, be sure to try some of the region’s locally-made sake and shochu. Shochu is a Japanese spirit made from either rice, barley or sweet potato. Oita’s shochu is mainly made from barley. It can be drunk straight or served with a mixer. You might also see it served as a cocktail.

Learn a little more about shochu here

Oita prefecture
Wide green spaces and blue skies for days. Tadewara Marshland puts Hong Kong hikes to shame.

#4 HIKE TADEWARA MARSHLAND

Sick of stadiums and in need of some wide, open space? Head to Tadewara Marshland near the Kuju mountain range and take a hike through this important ecological area, which became protected under the Ramsar Convention in 2005.

The walking paths all start at the Chojabaru Visitor Centre, which offers English-language films for visitors to learn about the flora and fauna in the area. There’s also lots to learn about the Kuju mountain range, including how to spot a tanuki, also known as a raccoon dog. Spot one and it will bring you and your team luck!

Starting at the visitor centre, there are a few walking options on offer through Tadewara Marshland. Take a stroll along the cedar boardwalks that protect the delicate ecosystem and choose from a family-friendly 20-minute walk or a longer 60-minute hike. You can also continue on and hike up and around the mountain for stunning view of the marshland and its glorious colouring – worth the effort!

Find out how to get there: Tadewara Marshland

Oita Prefecture Rugby World Cup games

  • 2 October 2019:          New Zealand V Canada (Pool B)
  • 5 October 2019:          Australia V Uruguay (Pool D)
  • 9 October 2019:          Wales V Fiji (Pool D)
  • 19 October 2019:        Quarter final match (Winner Pool C V Runner up Pool D)
  • 20 October 2019:       Quarter final match (Winner Pool D V Runner up Pool C)

Get the complete fixture details here

Getting there and getting around

  • Flights: Fly to Oita prefecture from Hong Kong via a domestic stop in Japan. Check your favourite airline for deals.
  • Land transport: Book a car online from one of the many hire companies and collect at the airport. Ask for an English GPS and an ETC (electronic toll collection) card when you book.
  • Not a driver? Japan has an amazing public transport system. Buy a JR Kyushu Rail Pass (jrkyushu.co.jp/English/railpass/railpass.jsp) or a SUNQ Pass for the buses (sunqpass.jp/english/index.shtml).
  • Planning and information: To get planning, head to Oita’s official website discover-oita.com or facebook.com/welcometooitapref.


See more in our Travel section:

Japan Rugby World Cup side trips
10 Wow travel experiences for 2019
Top things to do and places to visit in Hong Kong

Categories: Short Breaks Travel Tags: Kyushu Oita Rugby World Cup Japan Travel

You May Also Like

Top skiing destinations - Whistler, Canada

Stunning ski stays in Europe and beyond

Where to stay and what to do in Thailand - Merdeka

Quick getaways: Where to go in Thailand

Best places to go shopping in Singapore

Primary Sidebar

Editor's Picks

Kellett School

Best International Schools In Hong Kong, Preschool to Secondary

Furniture in Hong Kong: Guide To The Best Furniture Stores

sightseeing in Hong Kong

Top 30 Hong Kong Attractions & Best Places To Visit

Where to live in Hong Kong

Guide to Living in Hong Kong and where to live

Landing pads: places to stay in Hong Kong

Brunch in Hong Kong

Best Sunday Brunch Places in Hong Kong

What's On

Hong Kong activities - MET Nightly Opera Streams

The MET’S “Nightly Met Opera Streams”

Students at Hong Kong Academy

Hong Kong Academy – Applications Open for 2021/22

CDNIS - Admissions

CDNIS Admissions Timetable: Apply Now for January and August 2021

Events & Weekend Activities - The Grounds is the city's first responsible entertainment destination

The Grounds: HK’s first ‘COVID-19 responsible’ entertainment destination

Elsa in scene from Frozen

FWD Presents: The Frozen Exhibition Hong Kong

You Rise art exhibition by JM Robert

“You Rise” Solo Exhibition by JM Robert

Expat Living Hong Kong 🇭🇰

expatlivinghk

Open
🎉 We're so pleased to announce the winners of our Readers' Choice Awards! Congrats to all the companies who were voted among the best in Hong Kong, and to the voters who won the amazing prizes. See the full results online now at 👉 expatliving.hk/readerschoice

.
#expatlivinghk #hkbusiness #hongkongbusiness #elhkreaderschoice #hkexpats
Open
Pieces for your dining room mood board!🪑We are feeling these tones 🤎
Open
Thanks Julianna for this delicious 
Easy Blueberry Oreo Cheesecake to start the weekend!
Serves 4, or 2 if you're hungry😉

Preparation time: 15 mins Ingredients:
• 6 digestive biscuits
• 50g butter 
• 250g cream cheese (1 brick) 
• 6 Oreo biscuits
• 125g blueberries (1 box)
• 100g milk or whipped cream 
• 5 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:
For crust:
1. Crush digestive biscuits in a big bowl and add melted butter.
2. Press together at the base of the cake mould.
3. Set aside to cool.

For filling: 
1. Beat cream cheese, sugar and milk or whipped cream on medium speed in a bowl until it is smooth and creamy. 
2. Add crushed Oreos and beat until they mix evenly. 
3. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
4. Freeze for two hours and top with blueberries!🫐
Open
If you’re looking for a place to live in Hong Kong - particularly if you’re moving here and want an easy landing pad - a serviced apartment can be a godsend! @hongkongparkview is like a mini town with everything you need from a Clubhouse with full facilities to a toy shop, clothes and food shop! 🏞🛍
Open
Read our Winter issue on any device for free 👉 expatliving.hk/digital/ig.
Inside: Two inspiring home reno stories, great dining room furniture ideas, insider's guide to Hung Hom Bay and plenty of other great reads, including easy dessert recipes!
Open
How cool is this - Hong Kong-based @ovolohotels is the first hotel group to go entirely vegetarian across its restaurants, bars and food services for a year! 🌱This move is the latest in the group’s series of eco-friendly initiatives, and doesn’t this look delicious!👏🏻
Open
If we’ve learnt anything this last year it’s how much a magical view can do for your mind🌿These are just some of the properties showcased by @knightfrank 🙌🏼 Head to knightfrank.com.hk to see what’s currently available! 🏞
Open
Wishing everyone a safe and Happy New Year from the team at @expatlivinghk ❤️

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
There’s been a buzz lately around CBD (Cannabidiol, derived from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant) and its purported health benefits. 
Did you know it’s available in Hong Kong? 🌿

@kamacbdhk is a new HK-based company offering CBD products that can help a number of ailments, check out our article and their page for more information!🌺
Open
🎄 Merry Christmas everyone! It's been an extraordinary year and we're so grateful for your support. We wish you all a safe and happy holiday season 🌟🥂
Open
This 1950s colonial-style walk up in Kowloon Tong has been styled so well by tenant Jerome, it is fascinating to hear about the place and it’s history! For the full story and Jerome’s recommendations see our DEC-FEB issue✨📖
Open
Whether you’ve hiked up Old Peak Road or taken the tram, make sure you’re hungry, as you’ll want to consume most of the menu from @fiammahk 🍴🍅
Open
5 steps for a stylish Christmas, courtesy of Hong Kong-based home furnishing retailer @indigo_living 🎄
 
#1 Decide on a Theme:
Every momentous Christmas feast begins with a stunning table-scape. Whether you’re going for the classic red and green pairing or a contemporary setting, pick a theme that you can go all out with! 
 
#2 Organise Your Linen:
Generally speaking, a crisp white linen table-runner will do. But if you’re looking to up the ante this year, go for one with subtle prints on it. 
 
#3 Choose a Centrepiece:
 A beautiful Christmas centrepiece is the fastest way to add cheer to your party. It’s also a great excuse to show off your creative flair to friends and family. 
 
#4 Invest in a Good Set of Tableware:
When it comes to tableware, most people play it safe with crystal glasses and porcelain plates. Why not take it up a notch by throwing a set of gold cutlery into the mix? It’s an instant pop of luxury that exudes warmth to traditional red and green themes. 🍴
 
#5 End with a Bang:
What’s a Christmas dinner without some good old-fashioned crackers? Sure to put a smile on anyone’s faces, they’ll also ensure your party goes out with a bang! 💫
Open
What a view 🙌🏼

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
Less than five days left to vote for your favourite businesses! You could win fun family staycays and dining vouchers, so make sure to vote today by visiting 👉 expatliving.hk/readerschoice

.
#expatlivinghk #hkbusiness #hongkongbusiness #elhkreaderschoice #hkexpats
Open
Jazz up your dining area with these pretty picks!⚡️

Companies tagged in the photos for more details🪑
Open
Get ready for Christmas, CNY and beyond with these fab treatment packages now available at @amooma.spa ✨

#1 BUBBLE & SPARKLE
A package for two, including an aroma steam shower, deep sleep tourmaline crystal massage, sparkling champagne facial and a glass of champagne 🥂

#2 HO! HO! HO! IT’S ME-TIME!
Designed for one person, this me-time includes a ling organic forbidden rice scrub, ling nourishing body wrap, AMOONA signature blend and knesko gemological face mask 🧖🏼‍♀️
Open
How good do these look 😍 New recipe from @charissa_and_co_wellness. You can try a free sample by scanning the bar code on our online articles 💜

Recipe: Flourless Pecan Cranberry Brownie

Ingredients

Brownie base:

2 servings of Nuzest Clean Lean Chocolate Protein
1.5 cup of pumpkin puree
1 cup of hazelnut butter or almond *
1/2 cup of raw dark cacao powder
1/2 cup of chopped pecans
1/3 cup of dehydrated cranberries
2 teaspoons of Manuka honey ** Optional
White chocolate drizzle:

1/3 cup of melted cacao butter
2 tablespoons of cashew nut butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons of Erythritol
Dark chocolate drizzle:

1/3 cup of melted cacao butter
2 tablespoons of cashew nut butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
3 tablespoons of raw dark cacao powder
1 teaspoon of Erythritol
Instructions

Brownie base:

Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
Grease a square baking tray with coconut oil and line tray with parchment paper.
In a large blender, mix all the brownie ingredients together until smooth.
Pour the brownie mix into the pan and bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
Once cooked, allow the brownies to cool on a rack.
Chocolate drizzle:

You will need two separate mixing bowls for the white and dark chocolate drizzle.
Melt the cacao butter at low temperature and mix with the rest of the ingredients.
Pour the chocolate drizzle over the cooled brownies.
Pop them in the fridge to set or enjoy them as warm brownies.**
Optional: Sprinkle some fresh pomegranate and dried cranberry seeds onto the brownies (after cooling in the fridge for 20 minutes).
Open
TGIF 🌿🌿

📷 @lailasophiashah
Open
In our new winter issue we take a look at Dutch expat Nicole Hessing’s impressive home renovation in Clearwater Bay 🏡 Check out the article for all her tips and local recommendations 👉 expatliving.hk/digital/ig
  • COMPETITIONS & OFFERS
  • About
  • Advertise
  • Contact
  • Privacy
  • Subscribe

© 2021 Expat Living Hong Kong, All Rights Reserved.