Port information & tips for Beppu
Beppu is Japan's famous onsen capital on the island of Kyushu and enchants visitors with its fascinating thermal energy. The city is picturesquely situated between the deep blue sea and volcanic mountains, with the rising steam from countless hot springs creating a unique, mystical flair. Absolute highlights include the impressive "Hells of Beppu" such as the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku, as well as the traditional Takegawara Onsen and the spectacular view from the summit of Mount Tsurumi. Cruise ships dock at the modern Beppu International Tourist Port at Ishigaki Pier, which is located only about three kilometers from the city center and offers comfortable access to all attractions thanks to excellent bus connections and short taxi rides.
Beppu on the east coast of the island of Kyushu welcomes cruise guests at the modern Beppu International Tourist Port and mostly uses the Ishigaki-Pier (Wharf 3) for large ships. Thanks to its central location and excellent connections to the Japanese transport network, the port is an ideal starting point for journeys into the famous onsen region.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Oita Airport (OIT), located about 40 kilometers north of the port, which is served several times daily from the hubs of Tokyo-Haneda and Osaka. From the airport, you can reach the terminal comfortably in about 45 to 50 minutes with the Airport Express Bus Airliner or in about 40 minutes by taxi.
Train
The central hub for rail travelers is JR Beppu Station, which is excellently connected to the Shinkansen stop Hakata in Fukuoka via the Nippo Main Line and the Limited Express Sonic. From the station, many cruise lines offer free shuttle buses to the Ishigaki-Pier; additionally, you can reach the terminal in just 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or with the local bus lines of the Kamenoi Bus Company.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from Europe and the time difference, an overnight stay before embarkation in one of the traditional ryokans or modern wellness hotels is highly recommended. This way, you can start your cruise refreshed and enjoy the spectacular hot springs in the nearby district of Kannawa as well as Japanese hospitality in peace beforehand.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
