Located on Kyushu Island, Oita Prefecture may not be the most famous destination when it comes to regional souvenirs. So, it’s no surprise that many travelers feel unsure about what to bring back after a fun vacation.
In this article, let’s take a look at some of the most delicious and practical souvenirs from Oita Prefecture that are perfect to take home and share with others!
1. Xavier Confectionery – Nanban Sweet “Zabieru”
The Nanban sweet Zabieru (南蛮菓ざびえる), sold by Xavier Confectionery (Zabieru Honpo), is a unique Japanese-Western fusion pastry created to honor the missionary Francis Xavier, who arrived in Oita in 1551.
Made from ingredients like wheat and eggs, the buttery cake shell wraps around a filling of traditional Japanese white bean paste—or alternatively, a rum-soaked raisin filling—both offering distinctive flavors.
Paired with elegant packaging, this sweet is well-known throughout Oita Prefecture. Whether enjoyed personally or given as a gift, it’s a souvenir you definitely shouldn’t miss!
- Product Name: Nanban Sweet Zabieru (南蛮菓ざびえる)
- Price: 6 pcs – ¥745, 12 pcs – ¥1,242, 18 pcs – ¥1,857 (tax included)
- Where to Buy: Tokiwa Department Store (Oita), JR stations, Oita Airport, Beppu Bay Service Area souvenir shops, and more
2. Takara Bussan – Mysterious Chicken Tempura Rice Crackers
Mysterious Chicken Tempura Rice Crackers by Takara Bussan are one of the most iconic snacks from Oita—almost every local knows them.
Inspired by the regional dish “Chicken Tempura” (Toriten), these crispy rice crackers are packed with savory chicken flavor, closely mimicking the taste of the actual dish.
The word “mysterious” (謎) refers to the local dialect and culture of Oita, giving the snack a nostalgic hometown feel. A perfect souvenir for anyone who has visited Oita!
- Product Name: Mysterious Chicken Tempura Rice Crackers (謎のとり天せんべい)
- Price: 14 pcs – ¥760, 30 pcs – ¥1,260, 45 pcs – ¥1,890 (tax included)
- Where to Buy: Souvenir shops at train stations, airports, ports, and highway service areas throughout Oita Prefecture
Read:
5 Must-Try Kagoshima Souvenirs That Delight Your Taste Buds!
3. Myoban Onsen Okamotoya – Jigoku Mushi Pudding
Jigoku Mushi Pudding (地獄蒸しプリン), sold by Okamotoya, is one of the most renowned specialties of Beppu.
Steamed using natural high-temperature hot spring steam, this pudding is made from fresh eggs, milk, and cream.
The sulfur content in the steam acts as a natural preservative, allowing the pudding to stay fresh without any additives. It’s a pure and natural dessert.
In addition to being available directly at Beppu Onsen, the pudding can also be purchased at Beppu Station and Oita Airport. Its unique flavor makes it an exceptional souvenir choice!
- Product Name: Hell-Steamed Pudding (地獄蒸しプリン)
- Price: 2 pcs – ¥896, 6 pcs – ¥2,592 (tax included)
- Where to Buy: Okamotoya shop, Beppu Meihinkan, Oita Airport, Beppu Station souvenir shops, and more
4. Kikuya – BONDIA
BONDIA (ボンディア), which means “Good Morning” in Portuguese, was created by Kikuya Confectionery to commemorate the sister-city relationship established in 1978 between Oita City and Aveiro, Portugal.
This Japanese-style pastry combines a buttery outer shell with a traditional sweet red bean paste filling.
Its mild sweetness pairs perfectly with Japanese tea, black tea, coffee, or even milk.
For over 40 years, BONDIA has been a beloved treat in Oita and a solid souvenir choice.
- Product Name: BONDIA (ボンディア)
- Price: 5 pcs – ¥810, 8 pcs – ¥1,382, 12 pcs – ¥2,073 (tax included)
- Where to Buy: Oita Airport, Tokiwa Department Store (Oita), Meihinkan at Oita Station, Kikuyado shops
5. Takahashi Suigetsudo – Seki Aji & Seki Saba Monaka
Seki Aji (horse mackerel) and Seki Saba (mackerel) are premium fish caught in the Bungo Strait off Oita. These sweets are named after and inspired by these prized local seafood varieties.
The Seki Aji Monaka is smaller and filled with sweet red bean paste, while the larger Seki Saba Monaka contains Hokkaido red bean paste mixed with mochi for a unique texture.
With their charming fish shapes and delicious flavor, these are must-buy souvenirs from Oita Prefecture.
Product Name: Seki Aji & Seki Saba Monaka (関あじ最中・関さば最中)
Price: 7 pcs – ¥1,814, 10 pcs – ¥2,700, 15 pcs – ¥3,952 (tax included)
Where to Buy: Tokiwa Department Store main location, central and branch stores of Takahashi Suigetsudo
These are our top five souvenir recommendations from Oita Prefecture! Of course, there are many more delicious and unique items waiting to be discovered.
We hope this guide helps you explore and enjoy your trip to Oita—happy souvenir hunting!
