Hamawaki Onsen: Where Beppu's hot spring heritage began, illuminated for the Yakushi Festival
About this spot
The Hamawaki Onsen area, considered one of the birthplaces of Beppu hot springs, hosts the Yakushi Festival on August 29-30, 2026. Food stalls line the venue, and the lantern-lit hot spring town fills with visitors in yukata—a quintessential Beppu summer scene. The hilly Hamawaki alleyways reveal a different character at night, wrapped in the unique atmosphere of rising steam and festive music. The opening day (29th) celebrates as an evening shrine festival (yoimiya), making it family-friendly and manageable in scale.
Season & hours
Name: べっぷ浜脇薬師祭り
Date & time: 8/29 (Sat)–8/30 (Sun) Time TBA
Venue: 別府市・浜脇温泉周辺
Food stalls
Food stalls: Yes
※Based on previous years. Stall lineups change year to year. Please check the official site for the latest details.
Turn this into a day plan with stall time includedTips
The area has narrow streets and hills, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Sea breezes cool things down at night, so a light cardigan is recommended. Arrive shortly after the 5 PM opening to avoid food stall crowds, or come after sunset at 6 PM when the lantern lights are most beautiful.
Best time to visit
Shortly after 5 PM opening is relatively calm, and after 6 PM when lantern lights become prominent is most atmospheric.
Access & map
Oita Prefecture, Beppu City, Hamawaki Onsen area
Model course featuring this spot
2026 Beppu Hamawaki Yakushi Festival Full-Day Experience Course
Oita
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