Tanayu Onsen

Water park.

An observatory 100 m up in Beppu City that gives a full 360 degree view of the city. It's part of the Beppu International Convention Plaza (B-Con Plaza) and about 15 minutes on foot from the west exit of Beppu Station, just across from the western side of Beppu Park. Another similar option is the older Beppu Tower.

Has displays on bamboo craftsmanship and offers courses on making your own. Buses run from JR Beppu Station.

When the weather is clear this ropeway will take you 800 m up to the top of Mt. Tsurumi (1375 m) which has a full view of the city and Beppu Bay. Hours vary by season but mostly closes around dusk. Evening views are only available during Golden Week and August. From the upper station there is a ten-minute uphill walk to the top, with several small temples and shrines along the way.

A good place to start when you've never been to an Onsen before, as it's more like a public bath than a traditional Onsen. Features six types of indoor and outdoor baths, including an electric bath and a Japanese-style sauna.