Heat transfer rates in an airtight oscillating fluidized bed (AOFB) were compared with those in the same system operated as a conventional fluidized bed with a supply of fluidization air from beneath the distributor. Heat transfer rate in the AOFB increased with an increase in the oscillating frequency. Though fluidization air was intermittently introduced to the bed in the AOFB, the largest heat transfer rate obtained was roughly equal to that in a conventional fluidized bed. The vertical heat transfer rate distribution in the AOFB showed like sine curve, which could be qualitatively explained by the stagnating positions and frequencies of bubbles.