Getting Ready: Beppu

Timeline for Planning

Plan your trip chronologically for smooth travel.

Initial Steps

Essential steps to take months before your departure.

Months Before

Passport validity: six months beyond return.

Verify your passport date for travel.

Research visa entry for Japan.

Apply well in advance if a visa is needed.

Book international flights to Fukuoka FUK or Oita OIT.

Early booking gives better fares.

Month Before

Outline daily activities for Beppu and day trips.

This organizes your time.

Book domestic train/bus tickets if not using JR Rail Pass.

Confirm seats, especially for peak travel.

Obtain International Driving Permit IDP if renting a car.

A must for driving abroad.

Week Before

Confirm all bookings and reservations.

Double-check flight times, lodging, and tours.

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials.

Refer to packing guidance.

Acquire some JPY currency or check card access.

Ensure easy access to funds.

Advance Bookings & Research

Secure elements and gather knowledge.

Essential Bookings

International and domestic flights.
Accommodation, especially popular ryokan or peak seasons.
JR Rail Pass (if using trains widely).
Specific tours or highly popular activities.

Pre-Trip Learning

Gain knowledge for a richer experience.

Cultural Immersion

Read about Japanese customs and etiquette.
Learn basic Japanese phrases.
Familiarize yourself with Beppu's bus system.
Download essential travel apps (Google Maps, translation, JNTO).

Homefront & Documents

Ensure peace of mind before you depart.

Home Prep

Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Arrange mail, pet care, plant watering.
Lock doors and windows.
Stop newspaper deliveries.

Document Safety

Print or save digital copies of documents.
Store in multiple places (cloud, email, separate device).
Passport, tickets, insurance.
Important contact numbers.

Pre-Trip Research

Read about Japanese customs and etiquette.
Learn basic Japanese phrases.
Familiarize yourself with Beppu's bus system.
Download essential travel apps.

Health Advisory

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations based on your travel plans.

Seamless Entry

Settle into Beppu smoothly.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear immigration and customs.
Have your passport, visa (if any), and forms ready.
2
Activate SIM card/eSIM or pick up pocket Wi-Fi.
Ensure immediate connectivity.
3
Exchange currency if needed, or withdraw cash from an ATM.
ATMs at airports and convenience stores are reliable.

Orientation Strategies

Visit the Beppu Tourist Information Center.
Located at Beppu Station, it provides maps, brochures, and helpful local advice.
Familiarize yourself with your hotel/ryokan's immediate neighborhood.
Note nearby convenience stores, bus stops, and restaurants.
Purchase an IC card (e.g., Suica, Pasmo) for convenient public transport.
A handy way to pay for rides.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

From Oita Airport

Utilize the direct airport limousine bus to Beppu Station or Kitahama.

A straightforward option.

From Fukuoka Airport

Take the express bus or JR train (Limited Express Sonic) to Beppu Station/Kitahama.

Then, use a local bus or taxi to reach your accommodation.

Local Transfers

From Beppu Station, local buses are efficient.

Taxis offer direct routes for convenience.

Seamless Transition

Immediate connectivity and local orientation pave the way for a relaxed start to your Beppu adventure.

Graceful Exit

Plan your departure to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs ahead of departure day.
This avoids rushing.
Find unique local crafts.
Consider Shopping bags and Eagle Creek for travel bags.

Sending Home

Visit Japan Post office well before your flight.
Be aware of customs regulations in your home country.
Retain receipts for purchased items.
Check for VAT refund procedures if applicable.

Tax-Free Shopping

VAT refunds are possible for non-residents.

Refund Process

Claim tax refunds (8% consumption tax) at eligible stores.
Look for "Tax-Free" signs.
Your passport is required.
Refund processed at time of purchase, often at a designated counter.

Airport Schedule

Allow ample time for Oita or Fukuoka Airport.
Factor in check-in and security.
International flights: arrive 2-3 hours prior.
Domestic flights: 1-1.5 hours prior.

Smooth Farewell

A well-planned departure ensures a relaxed end to your Beppu journey.

Enjoy your memories and plan your next adventure!

Getting Ready