Things To Do
in Hiji
Hiji is a quiet coastal town in Oita Prefecture along Beppu Bay, blending fishing heritage with tranquil rural scenery. It offers scenic shoreline promenades, seafood-focused dining, and easy day trips to nearby onsen towns. The town has a compact, walkable center and a welcoming, unhurried pace.
Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, fresh seafood, and a gentle gateway to Beppu and the wider Kyushu region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Hiji Village with a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets. This quaint town is known for its preserved historical buildings and beautiful scenery. Visit the local artisans and enjoy a traditional Okinawan breakfast at a local café.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the culture by visiting the Hiji Historical Museum, where you can learn about the area's rich history and heritage. Take a short hike to the nearby Hiji Falls for a refreshing experience and stunning nature. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the serene surroundings.
As the sun sets, enjoy a tranquil dinner at a local izakaya, sampling regional dishes made from fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the seaside promenade as the stars start to twinkle. Wrap up your day by sipping on some traditional Okinawan awamori at a local bar.
Begin your day early with a guided hiking tour to explore the lush nature trails surrounding Hiji. The cool morning air and chirping birds create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a tranquil hike. Stop at scenic viewpoints to capture breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
After your hike, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery that specializes in farm-to-table dishes. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Hiji Falls, where you can go for a swim or bask in the sun by the water’s edge. Engage with the locals, who often share stories of the area’s history and natural beauty.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the mountains. Dine at a traditional Okinawan restaurant, enjoying dishes like goya champloo or Okinawa soba. End the night at a local lounge, where you can mingle with residents and soak in the island's vibrant nighttime atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch or casual cafe | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transport one-way ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful coastal town with easy access to Beppu and Oita
- Fresh seafood and scenic coastline
- Compact and walkable town center
- Strong sense of local culture and slower pace
- Good base for day trips to hot springs
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options within town
- Smaller selection of international cuisines
- Some areas can be quiet at night; transportation is helpful for longer trips
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?
- "いくらですか?" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
- "お願いします" - Please
- "はい/いいえ" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Hiji
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over fishing boats and calm waters; best in the early pre-dawn hours.
Expansive sea views along a long coastline with dramatic skies—great for wide-angle shots.
A traditional torii near the coast, offering a striking contrast of wood against sea and sky.
Quiet mornings yield reflections of trees and reeds with soft light on the water.
Rugged sea cliffs and panoramic horizons provide dramatic landscape photography opportunities.
Food in Hiji
Hiji Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beppu-style chicken tempura—crisp, light, and commonly served with rice and dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Rice topped with a selection of fresh local fish and shellfish, often available at harbor-scale eateries.
Desserts and beverages featuring local yuzu and mikan flavors, perfect for a refreshing break.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal seafood bites and small eats along the waterfront, especially on market days or festival weekends.
Temporary stalls offering quick bites and local favorites during local events and celebrations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual and polite; remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces; bow slightly as a sign of respect; speak softly in public places; handle money and goods with both hands when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Hiji
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is included in prices. If you wish, a small tip in a polite gesture is acceptable in some tourist areas, but not expected.
Cash remains widely used, especially in small shops and markets. Credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments and hotels. IC cards (e.g., Suica) are common for transit; ATMs at convenience stores and post offices usually support international cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional rain; typhoon risk in late summer. Light clothing, sun protection, and rain gear recommended.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to mild with rare frost; windy coastal conditions can be brisk. Layered clothing is advised.
Mild and comfortable; cherry blossoms and fresh greenery create scenic backdrops.
Hiji at Night
Hiking in Hiji
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle coastal path with sea views, ideal for easy hikes and photo opportunities.
Hiking options in nearby hills with forested paths and viewpoints; reachable by car or bus from Hiji.
Airports
How to reach Hiji by plane.
Located about an hour away by car or bus; provides domestic flights and some international connections.
Major international hub in Fukuoka; well connected by rail to Beppu and Oita areas.
Smaller regional airport accessible by road and rail from Beppu/Oita region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families with multi-generational households; community activities are common.
Aging population active in community life and local events.
Coastal economy supports a small community of fishermen and dock workers.
Residents who travel to Beppu or Oita City for study or work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular school and community sport across Kyushu, with local games and tournaments.
Common in schools and clubs; matches often held on weekends in nearby towns.
Practice and events held in local dojos and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hiji.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and rice bowls; communicate clearly about dashi-containing broths.
Ask about soy sauce and batter ingredients; many places can accommodate with grilled fish, rice, and vegetables.