🧭 Introduction
Oita, known as Japan’s “Onsen Prefecture,” is not only famous for its hot springs but also for a variety of local specialties that enrich everyday life.
Author’s Note: I personally buy items No.1–5 regularly as a local resident. For items No.6 and No.7, I highly recommend them as beautiful souvenirs to remember your Oita trip.
🎁 Must-Buy Souvenirs from Oita
🌶 1. Yuzu Pepper (Yuzu Kosho)
A spicy yet refreshing condiment made from yuzu citrus peel and chili peppers. It’s incredibly versatile — use it instead of salt and pepper to marinate meat before grilling, or add a touch to soups for extra depth. It pairs perfectly with noodles, grilled vegetables, and even pasta.
🥃 2. Oita Shochu
While sake is Japan’s best-known alcohol, Oita is the home of barley shochu. The elusive “Kanehachi” even surprised locals when it appeared for sale at Oita Airport. In daily life, many residents enjoy classics like Iichiko and Nikaido.
Notably, Nikaido became the Official Shochu of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025, and it’s now served at Dodger Stadium. MLB.com
How to choose: cartons are handy for home use; bottles work best as gifts.
🍬 3. Mitsuemon Sweets
Perfect for anyone who loves sweet potato treats. These baked sweets taste great at room temperature and even better when chilled. Individually wrapped and lightly sweetened, they’re perfect for sharing with family or coworkers.
🍄 4. Dried Shiitake Mushrooms (Donko)
Oita produces Japan’s finest shiitake mushrooms. The thick, flavorful donko variety is popular in Japanese dishes like chawanmushi (savory custard), but you can also soak and sauté them with butter, garlic, and salt for a rich aroma. Don’t waste the soaking liquid—it makes a perfect base for pasta sauces.
🥩 5. Bungo Beef Products
Oita’s proud Wagyu brand, Bungo Beef, is famous for its quality — it even won top honors at Japan’s 2017 National Wagyu Competition. For souvenirs, try Bungo beef curry packs, jerky, or miso-flavored beef paste. These travel-friendly products are sold at major stations and Oita Airport.
🎋 6. Beppu Bamboo Crafts
A designated traditional Japanese craft, Beppu’s bamboo weaving is admired for its beauty and quality. While large baskets can be expensive, smaller items like earrings or coasters are more affordable — wonderful reminders of Japan’s craftsmanship. Lightweight and durable, they’re perfect for overseas travel.
🏺 7. Onta Pottery (Onta-yaki)
Recognized as a National Important Intangible Cultural Property, Onta pottery has deep roots in Hita City. After the 2023 flood damage, local artisans restored their kilns to continue the tradition. Known for its rustic patterns like tobikanna and hakeme, Onta ware is the perfect “simple is best” tableware that highlights your meal. Each piece is handmade and unique.
🛍 Where to Buy Souvenirs in Oita
- Oita Airport Souvenir Hall – ideal for last-minute shopping, with popular shochu brands and local foods available tax-free.
- Beppu Station B-Passage – perfect for picking up bamboo crafts and onsen-themed goods after sightseeing.
- Hita Area Shops & Workshops – visit local studios to find one-of-a-kind Onta pottery items.
✈️ Travel Tips
- Most stores accept credit cards and offer tax-free shopping.
- Simply ask “Tax-free OK?” at checkout for duty-free eligibility.
- Some items are also available online via Amazon Japan.
👉 Also read: Oita Airport Guide for Families
💬 Conclusion
Among Oita’s many souvenirs, yuzu pepper, shochu, and dried shiitake stand out for their flavor and usefulness, while bamboo crafts and Onta pottery bring timeless Japanese design into your home. Bring back the taste and craftsmanship of Oita as part of your family travel memories.
