Beppu Tower

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the elevator up to the 55-meter observation deck for a spectacular 360-degree view of Beppu Bay and the surrounding mountains.

• Explore the tower's interior floors to discover a quaint café, a nostalgic small museum, and unique local souvenir shops.

• Watch the sunset over the ocean and see the city lights twinkle to life during the evening hours from the panoramic windows.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the retro charm of the tower's original architectural details and vintage exhibits in the small museum that pay homage to its 1950s origins.

• Visit the tower at night when the structure is beautifully illuminated and the crowds have thinned, offering a romantic and peaceful viewing experience.

• Check out the unique local crafts and bamboo products available in the ground-floor shops that you will not find in standard tourist malls.

What Makes it Special

• As one of Beppu's oldest and most iconic landmarks, it offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden era of Japanese domestic tourism.

• The unobstructed 360-degree vantage point perfectly contrasts the urban grid of Beppu City with the natural beauty of Beppu Bay and Mount Tsurumi.

• Its convenient central location in the Kitahama district makes it an easily accessible and relaxing stop between your onsen-hopping adventures.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The late afternoon to early evening is the absolute best time to visit, allowing you to experience the golden hour sunset over Beppu Bay and the subsequent transition into a sparkling nightscape. Spring and autumn offer the clearest skies for optimal visibility, while summer mornings are great for beating the heat and the crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position your camera lens close to the glass on the observation deck to eliminate reflections and capture crisp, clear shots of Beppu Bay.

• The golden hour just before sunset provides stunning warm lighting for landscape photography, while the blue hour right after dusk is perfect for capturing the city lights.

• Tripods are generally restricted in the observation areas to ensure smooth foot traffic, so rely on your camera's image stabilization or rest it on the window ledge.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese observation decks are typically quiet, contemplative spaces, so keep your voice down and avoid loud conversations to respect other visitors. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, including at the tower's café and gift shops, so simply pay the stated price. Please queue politely for the elevator and allow passengers to exit before you step inside.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival in early April, the tower often features special illuminations and serves as a great vantage point to view local parade routes.

• In winter, the tower is beautifully lit up for the New Year and holiday season, offering a festive atmosphere and stunning views of the city's winter lights.

• During the summer Obon festival, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the traditional lantern floating ceremonies and distant fireworks displays over the bay.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on young children near the glass observation windows and ensure they do not climb or lean against the barriers.

• Hold onto handrails when navigating the stairways between the different exhibition floors, especially if they are polished or slightly steep.

• Be mindful of your step when entering and exiting the elevator, as there may be a slight gap or height difference between the cabin and the floor.