Oita City Guide

Local dishes include Toriten (chicken tempura) and fresh mackerel. You’ll find Asian and Western food in the city center. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but can need effort to find. Izakayas and ramen shops stay open late near Oita Station.

Nightlife centers near Oita Station and Miyakomachi with bars, izakayas, and some karaoke. It's quieter than big cities but local and friendly.

Coffee scene features traditional kissaten and newer cafes. Quality is good though not as varied as Tokyo or Kyoto.

Tipping is not customary and can be confusing. Service charges are often included in bills.

SIM cards are sold at electronics stores like Bic Camera and airport counters. Providers include NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank. ID is needed for SIM purchases. eSIM options are growing.

Oita is very clean with efficient waste and recycling services. Sanitation issues are uncommon.

Convenience stores are open 24/7. Some fast food and izakayas stay open late but 24/7 pharmacies or clinics are rare.

You can find international products in Aeon, MaxValu, and YouMe Town supermarkets. Fresh markets sell local produce. Most supermarkets open around 9-10 AM and close by 9-10 PM. Smaller shops may close on Sundays and holidays.

Card payments work in major shops and restaurants, but you still need cash for small places and some transport.

ATMs are easy to find at post offices and convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson. Most accept international cards but watch for withdrawal fees.

Oita has local Japanese schools and limited international options like Oita International School. Instruction is mostly in Japanese, with some international schools offering English.

Oita has a small digital nomad scene with few physical meetups. Remote worker groups mostly gather online.

Parks like Oita Sports Park and Oita Castle Ruin Park provide good green spaces and walking paths.

Running routes include Oita River paths and big parks. It's safe with good air quality and scenic views.

Several gyms including 24-hour and specialty fitness centers.

Public tennis courts are at places like Oita Sports Park. Equipment rental is limited, so bring your own.

Padel courts are rare but might be found in large sports centers.

Several yoga studios operate in Oita with varied classes. English-speaking instructors are uncommon.

Various dojos offer Judo, Kendo, Karate, and Aikido. Some gyms have BJJ and Muay Thai. English instruction may be rare.

No skiing in Oita Prefecture. Nearest ski resorts are in other regions of Japan.

Kayaking and paddleboarding happen in Beppu Bay and calm coastal areas, mostly in warmer months.

Surfing spots are limited in Oita city but available along the prefecture coast. Nearby Miyazaki is better known for surf. Rentals and schools are rare nearby.

Diving spots around Saiki and Tsukumi offer clear waters. Rental gear and certification are available in coastal towns.

Oita Medical Center and Oita University Hospital serve the city. Some English-speaking staff or translators may be available but not guaranteed. Pharmacies have fixed prices but limited English help.

Tap water in Ōita is safe to drink.

Parks like Oita Sports Park have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes exist. Attractions include Oita Marine Palace Aquarium and Takasakiyama Zoo.

Generally safe and tolerant but LGBTQ+ visibility and events are limited. Larger cities offer more resources.

Pet services and supply stores exist but pet-friendly places and parks are limited. Japan’s pet import rules are strict.