What is Beppu Onsen?
Beppu Onsen is one of Japan's top hot spring destinations located in Oita Prefecture.
Astonishingly, it boasts the highest output of hot spring water and the largest number of hot spring sources in Japan!
It is also famous for offering unique hot spring experiences like "Hell Tour," "Sand Bath," and "Mud Bath."
✅ Enjoy 8 hot spring areas (Beppu Hatto)
✅ Explore otherworldly hot springs on the "Hell Tour"
✅ Indulge in local food and sightseeing in the retro hot spring town!
Beppu Onsen is a premier hot spring resort that envelops visitors with healing and wonder!
Highlights of Beppu Onsen
1. Explore the Beppu Hatto Hot Springs
Beppu Onsen comprises 8 unique hot spring areas, each with its own charm.
Features of Beppu Hatto
- Beppu Onsen (most accessible and has many accommodations)
- Kannawa Onsen (enjoy Hell Tour and steam baths)
- Myoban Onsen (sulfur-scented springs)
- Kankaiji Onsen (offers panoramic views of Beppu city)
- Horita Onsen (hidden gems scattered throughout)
- Shibaseki Onsen (visited by the Imperial Family in the past)
- Hamawaki Onsen (a retro onsen loved by locals)
- Kamegawa Onsen (hot springs by the sea)
Each onsen offers a different type of spring, which is part of Beppu's allure!
2. The Thrilling "Hell Tour"
Beppu Onsen is renowned for its "Hell Tour"!
Unlike typical hot springs, these are tourist spots where vividly colored hot water bubbles up.
Notable Spots on the Hell Tour
- Umi Jigoku (a beautiful cobalt blue hot spring)
- Chinoike Jigoku (a striking red hot spring full of impact)
- Shiraike Jigoku (a mystical milky white hot spring)
- Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (a mysterious spring where mud bubbles up)
- Tatsumaki Jigoku (a geyser that erupts periodically)
- Oniyama Jigoku (a hot spring where crocodiles are kept!)
Experience the awe-inspiring landscape that feels like the power of the Earth!
3. Unique Hot Springs Experiences
Beppu Onsen offers unique experiences beyond ordinary hot springs.
Recommended Unique Hot Springs
- Sand Bath (different from Ibusuki!): Get warmed up by being buried in sand
- Mud Bath (Myoban Onsen): Enjoy mud packs with excellent beauty effects!
- Steam Bath (Kannawa Onsen): A steam bath enveloped in herbal aromas
The variety of hot springs is what makes Beppu so attractive.
A must-visit spot for hot spring enthusiasts!
4. Don't Miss Beppu Gourmet!
It's not just about hot springs! Beppu's gourmet offerings are also exquisite.
Recommended Gourmet
- Jigoku Mushi Cuisine (healthy dishes steamed with hot spring steam)
- Tori Ten (crispy chicken fries, a specialty of Oita)
- Beppu Cold Noodles (local ramen with a refreshing taste)
- Onsen Pudding (delicious pudding with a hint of sulfur aroma)
Local gourmet enjoyed after a hot spring bath is exceptional!
Convenient Information for Travelers
1. Access to Beppu Onsen
By Train
- About 2 hours by Limited Express "Sonic" from JR Hakata Station
- About 10 minutes by regular train from JR Oita Station
By Car
- About 2 hours via expressway from Fukuoka
- About 45 minutes by car from Oita Airport
By Bus
- Highway buses available from Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, and Kagoshima
2. Recommended Accommodations
Beppu Hot Spring Inns
- Suginoi Hotel (large resort with scenic hot springs)
- Kai Beppu (luxury ryokan operated by Hoshino Resorts)
- Beppu Kamenoi Hotel (popular hotel with good value)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
✅ Beppu Onsen is one of Japan's largest hot spring areas!
✅ Enjoy a variety of hot springs at "Beppu Hatto"
✅ "Hell Tour" offers breathtaking scenery
✅ Experience unique hot springs (Sand Bath, Mud Bath, Steam Bath)
✅ Enjoy gourmet delights like Jigoku Mushi Cuisine and Tori Ten!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best season to visit Beppu Onsen?
A: Autumn (fall foliage) and winter (beautiful hot spring steam) are especially recommended! It's also enjoyable in summer and spring.
Q: Can Beppu be enjoyed as a day trip?
A: Yes! With its Hell Tour and numerous day-use hot spring facilities, you can enjoy Beppu even on a day trip.
Q: Is Beppu Onsen English-friendly?
A: Major hot spring facilities and hotels are increasingly English-friendly, but local establishments in the hot spring town may have limited English proficiency.
Beppu Onsen is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture of Japanese hot springs!
Be sure to visit at least once!
