Explore the Great Outdoors: Hiking & Picnic Spots Near Hotel Solage
With fresh green leaves and sunshine all around, it’s the perfect season to get outside and refresh your mind and body in nature.
Spring and early summer bring warm, comfortable weather to Oita — the ideal time to enjoy the outdoors. If you’re staying at Hotel Solage, you’re in luck: the surrounding area is full of scenic spots for hiking and picnicking. From forest trails to flower gardens, these peaceful escapes are just a short trip from the hotel.
Here are some of our favorite local nature spots to explore:
Kanagoe Mountain Range
Straddling the towns of Hinode and Kitsuki, this mountain range is known for its dramatic name — “so steep even deer cry.” Despite that reputation, the hiking trails here are great for beginners and intermediate hikers. Routes typically take 2 to 5 hours to complete, and the panoramic views from the summit include Beppu Bay and Mount Takasaki. It’s an excellent choice for a rewarding half-day hike.
Beppu Higashiyama Trail
Starting at Lake Shidaka (about 600 meters above sea level), this 11-kilometer trail takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of iconic peaks like Mount Tsurumi and Mount Yufu — both part of the Aso-Kuju National Park. The trail itself follows a historic, unpaved path that offers both natural beauty and a sense of tradition. Be sure to pause by the Yufugawa Valley and listen to the soothing sounds of the stream.
Inonose Marshland
Located within Aso-Kuju National Park, Inonose is a highland marsh at roughly 700 meters elevation. This area is home to rare wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers and birdwatchers. With minimal elevation changes, it’s an easy route that’s perfect for first-time hikers. As you walk, take in stunning views of Mount Yufu and Mount Tsurumi, all surrounded by vibrant greenery.
Itogahama Seaside Park
If you’re more into sea breezes than mountain air, head to Itogahama Seaside Park. This expansive recreational area includes a beach, campgrounds, and tennis courts — but it’s the wide-open grassy spaces and sandy shores that make it perfect for a laid-back picnic. A walk along the beach, with the sound of waves in the background, is the perfect way to unwind.
Oga Farm
Oga Farm is a beautiful rose and herb garden overlooking Beppu Bay. Between May and June, the roses are in full bloom, filling the air with sweet fragrance. You’ll find benches and garden tables scattered throughout the grounds, so bring a picnic basket and take your time enjoying the scenery.
Beppu Park
A beloved green space in the heart of Beppu City, Beppu Park spans 27.3 hectares and offers large, open lawns that are ideal for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. Around 700 towering pine trees — many over 100 years old — give the park a stately, calming atmosphere. It’s a favorite gathering place for locals and a great way to experience daily life in the city.
Ruru Park (Oita Agricultural Culture Park)
Covering about 120 hectares, Ruru Park is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread out a picnic blanket, pitch a pop-up tent, and spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by greenery. In June, the park’s hydrangea garden comes alive with color. There’s also a well-maintained 4-kilometer trail around the dam lake, perfect for an easy, scenic walk.
End Your Day in Total Relaxation
After a day of hiking or picnicking, there’s no better way to recharge than soaking in a hot spring bath. At Hotel Solage, our open-air onsen offers breathtaking views of Beppu Bay. Let the warmth soothe your muscles, then drift off into a deep sleep in one of our cozy beds.
Whether you’re here to hike, unwind, or simply enjoy nature’s beauty, Hotel Solage offers the perfect base for a refreshing escape.
