Nestled in the lush landscapes of Kyushu, Beppu and Yufuin are renowned throughout Japan as premier hot spring destinations. Beyond their steaming onsen and picturesque views, these towns offer a unique digital nomad-friendly environment, blending exceptional livability with seamless workability. Imagine a place where you can easily switch between focused work sessions and rejuvenating soaks in therapeutic hot springs. Add to this a vibrant nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural surroundings, and the result is the ultimate retreat for balancing productivity and wellness.
Profile
Digital nomad: Elina Osborne
Profile: Since 2019, Elina has embraced a nomadic lifestyle, traveling to places inspired by her motivation to experience the natural world. She has largely spent her time working as a video creator; shooting, writing, and editing for YouTube. With over 100,000 followers and hiking adventures that have taken her through North America, Oceania, Asia, and Europe, Elina inspires with a minimalist, sustainable travel approach. Her free and flexible way of working has captivated young people everywhere, showcasing the exciting possibilities of the digital nomad lifestyle.
Enjoy the journey, not just the destination
Picturesque streets with a view of Mt Yufu and the "Yufuin-no-mori" train winding through the lush green landscape. The natural beauty elevates the journey, adding an extra layer of tranquility.
Traveling to Beppu and Yufuin is not only convenient and straightforward but also offers the unique opportunity to ride Kyushu-exclusive locomotives that are sure to delight train enthusiasts. From Hakata Station in Fukuoka City, the scenic JR Express Yufuin-no-mori transports travelers to Yufuin in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Beppu can be accessed via the JR ‘Sonic’ Limited Express in just 1 hour and 50 minutes, or by highway bus in about 2 hours and 50 minutes. Each travel option is equipped with power outlets and Wi-Fi, providing digital nomads with the perfect opportunity to stay productive on the go. Alternatively, you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Embark on a calming trek up Mt Yufu
Mt Yufu offers plenty of beginner-friendly hiking trails.
Elina: The autumn leaves on the trail were simply beautiful. On a clear day, you can also enjoy a wonderful view of Beppu and Oita from the summit. This hiking spot is easily accessible from the city center, making it perfect for a quick day trip.
Take a well-deserved break from work and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mt Yufu, Yufuin’s most iconic peak. Whether a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails to suit all fitness levels and time constraints, offering beautiful views that change with the seasons, from vibrant autumn leaves to fresh spring greenery. These scenic treks provide an easy opportunity for digital nomads to disconnect, recharge, and refresh both body and mind, all while enjoying the peaceful serenity of nature. On the way back down, don’t forget to treat yourself to a dip in one of the region’s famous hot springs, perfect for soothing muscle aches and clearing your mind for another round of work.
Discover a home away from home in Beppu
Nestled among the steaming streets of Beppu, Sunline Beppu offers the perfect blend of traditional Japanese style and modern international facilities.
After a refreshing hike up Mt Yufu, take the quick 50-minute train or bus ride to Beppu, where you can check into your hotel and unwind. Sunline Beppu is the ideal place to set up base in the Beppu area, with spacious private rooms and a welcoming coworking space, meaning you can choose to work either surrounded by like-minded people or cocooned in peace and quiet. The blend of traditional Japanese sensibilities and a modern cafe-style interior creates the perfect environment for productivity, enhanced by Wi-Fi and conveniently placed power outlets dotted throughout the building. This cozy guest house also boasts its own hot spring, adding a special Japanese touch. Despite this traditional appeal, Sunline Beppu manages to stay rooted and connected with the rest of the world through foreigner-friendly signage and English-speaking staff, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for digital nomads from start to finish.
Elina: The stylish first-floor entrance, adorned with plants, lamps, and books, set a relaxing tone. With a coworking space and cozy accommodations, this place is perfect for both work and relaxation. The attention to detail and warm hospitality from the staff made my stay even more memorable.
Step into a magical hot spring world in Beppu
The Hells of Beppu provide a welcome escape from work, where vibrant hues and dramatic steam paint a mesmerizing picture.
Continue to experience the effortless balance of self-care and work that Kyushu inspires in Beppu, where the Hells of Beppu present landscapes straight out of a fairy tale anime. The otherworldly beauty of the volcanic springs, their bright colors and steam rising like breath from a living being, will captivate your senses, grounding you and fostering a deep reconnection with nature.
You can bring your own locally sourced ingredients to enjoy a delicious Jigoku Mushi experience.
Be sure to try Jigoku Mushi – local ingredients steamed using the natural heat of the hot springs. This unique experience highlights Beppu’s distinctive gourmet culture.
Elina: Steaming my pick of local ingredients with hot spring steam was so much fun! Beppu’s hot springs aren’t just for soaking – they’re a place for relaxation, dining, meditation, and so much more.
Engage with nature through traditional bamboo crafts
Embrace your creative side at an immersive open workshop.
For more arty nomads or those looking to find inspiration in an interactive working space filled with natural materials, why not try traditional bamboo crafts at a bamboo school? This one-of-a-kind workshop space is filled with bamboo, wood, and an array of tools, including machines and laser cutting facilities available for use by digital nomads. Users of the space can try traditional bamboo weaving workshops, learn how to make their own chopsticks, or simply let their imagination run wild and craft their own unique art piece.
Elina: Bamboo crafting was a challenging task that demanded patience, but completing a piece with my own hands gave me a rewarding sense of accomplishment. The fact that I could take my creation home with me gave me a special connection to the region.
Enjoy Beppu’s vibrant nightlife
Beppu is famous for its unique nightlife.
In the evenings, the center of Beppu comes alive with friendly nightlife, offering a large variety of quirky bars, restaurants, karaoke joints and clubs concentrated in a small area. The streets buzz with welcoming locals, who are often quick to invite nomads to join in for drinks and share stories. Many of the dining spots feel like undiscovered gems, with an intimate vibe and creative cuisine that perfectly showcases Beppu’s delicious local charm. This welcoming exclusivity is something that can only be experienced in this part of Japan, giving nomads the chance to really settle into local life and forge a genuine connection with the town.
Elina: Nights in Beppu offer a unique blend of chaotic energy, retro charm, and eccentricity. The music and drinks were carefully curated, and the stylish atmosphere gave me a fresh perspective on the city after dark. The warmth and hospitality of the locals made it hard to believe this was a tourist destination, allowing me to truly immerse myself in the authentic local experience.
Work at Beppu’s most stylish coworking space
An innovative coworking space located a 2-minute walk from Beppu Station.
After a contemplative couple of days blending work, relaxation and the healing power of hot springs, finish your adventure in Office Hood, an aesthetically pleasing and easily accessible coworking space in the heart of Beppu, where nomads can assemble their own personal workspace. The high ceilings and calm, muted tones provide the perfect ambiance to wrap up your inner journey, recharged by the natural beauty of Yufuin and Beppu.
Elina: Office Hood offers a flexible layout, letting visitors craft a workspace tailored to their own personal style. With easy access and a comfortable atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to get work done before heading home.
This special part of Kyushu hums with the energy of hot springs, offering a soothing environment for both body and soul. With its high-quality workspaces and relaxing atmosphere, it’s the ideal destination for digital nomads. Could this be the next destination on your digital nomad bucket list?
Example Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
↓ About 2 hours, 15 minutes (by train) or About 2 hours (by bus)
↓ About 20 minutes (by bus + foot)
Afternoon
↓ About 50 minutes (by bus + foot)
Day 2
Morning
↓ About 40 minutes (by bus + foot)
Afternoon
↓ About 10 minutes (by bus + foot)
↓ About 30 minutes (by bus)
↓ About 10 minutes (by foot)
↓ About 5 minutes (by foot)
Day 3
Morning
↓ About 10 minutes (by foot)
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About the author
Author: Jessica Ujiie
Profile: Jessica is a writer and seasoned digital nomad who currently calls Kamakura, Japan, home. With experience working remotely across Japan, and throughout Europe, she’s become an expert in blending travel, work, and adventure.
