Oita Prefecture, home to 1.17 million residents in northeastern Kyushu, reigns as Japan's undisputed hot spring capital—Beppu City alone features 2,909 vents producing more than 10% of Japan's total hot spring sources, with 130,000 tons of water gushing daily creating second-largest discharge worldwide. Ten of eleven known hot spring types exist in Beppu, making it pilgrimage site for onsen enthusiasts seeking therapeutic bathing, unique experiences, and relaxation culture central to Japanese wellness traditions. "Beppu Hatto" refers to eight major thermal spring zones each offering distinct water composition and bathing character. Neighboring Yufuin provides upscale ryokan inns and artistic atmosphere contrasting with Beppu's more commercialized tourism, creating complementary onsen experiences within same prefecture.

The economy depends overwhelmingly on hot spring tourism attracting millions annually, with hospitality industry employing significant workforce and defining regional identity. Challenges include dependence on domestic tourism vulnerable to demographic decline, competition from newer resort destinations, and economic stagnation in regions beyond tourism zones. Yet Oita maintains appeal through onsen quantity and quality, "jigoku" (hell) steam vents creating photogenic geothermal displays, accessibility from Fukuoka, and therapeutic spa culture attracting health-conscious visitors. The prefecture represents specialized tourism economy built entirely on natural geothermal resources, demonstrating how unique geography creates distinct economic niches and cultural identities within diversified Japanese economy.