Kannawa

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I wanted to find the shop in Kannawa that sells ohaga, a Japanese treat made with sweet rice and sweet azuki (red bean) paste. Apparently, this area is known for it.

The best decision I made on this jaunt to Japan was booking this side trip to Beppu City.

I really didn’t know what to expect. And I will say, the city with an overabundance of hot springs and friendly smiles surprised me.

I loved that folks smiled and said, “Ohayou gozaimasu”（おはようございます）to me as I walked by. I loved that whenever we asked for directions, people literally walked us to our destination. They were just as warm as the hot springs flowing under the city — and that was the appeal.

So we had one more day in Beppu City — and still lots to see and do. Then we were heading back to Fukuoka for our final dinner in the city.

Big plans, big day. Good thing I was well rested!

Follow my #CatTravels adventures in Europe and Japan on Twitter @thedailydish and Instagram @catherinetoth.