Beppu Hell Hot Springs

Must Do Experiences

• Marvel at the striking cobalt blue waters of Umi Jigoku and the fiery red ponds of Oniishibozu Jigoku.

• Watch the entertaining sea lion and crocodile feeding shows at Oniyama Jigoku.

• Sample local street food like eggs and vegetables steamed naturally by the intense geothermal heat of the hot springs.

• Use your included Kamenoi Bus Pass to easily hop between all seven unique hells scattered across the Kannawa and Shibaseki districts.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the lesser-known Shiraike Jigoku early in the morning to see the milky white water shimmer without the heavy crowds.

• Look for the traditional foot baths tucked away near the bus stops, which are perfect for pass holders to soak their tired feet between rides.

• Try the unique Jigoku Mushi pudding sold at the gift shops, a local delicacy made using the natural steam vents.

What Makes it Special

• The included Beppu Kamenoi 1-Day Wide Area Pass eliminates transport hassles, allowing unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus rides to all major hell sites.

• Unlike standard hot springs for bathing, these hells are strictly for viewing, preserving their extreme temperatures and vibrant, mineral-rich colors.

• The combination of dramatic geothermal landscapes and deep-rooted Japanese folklore creates an educational and visually stunning experience.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to explore the Beppu Hells is early morning right at opening time, especially during the crisp autumn or mild spring months when the steam contrasts beautifully with the cool air. Summer can be intensely hot and humid due to the geothermal heat, while winter offers a magical scene with steam rising against cold, frosty mornings. Weekdays are highly recommended to avoid the heavy weekend crowds and domestic tour groups.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a polarizing filter or adjust your exposure to cut through the thick steam and capture the vibrant, true colors of the mineral pools like the deep blue of Umi Jigoku.

• Capture the dramatic contrast of the rising white steam against the lush green bamboo forests surrounding the hells during the soft morning light.

• Be mindful of your lens fogging up due to the high humidity and sudden temperature changes; keep a microfiber cloth handy to wipe it quickly.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

While these hells are for viewing and not bathing, always wash your hands and feet thoroughly before using the communal foot baths, and never place your towel directly in the shared water. It is considered polite to bow slightly when interacting with the local staff at the ticket counters and gift shops. Refrain from throwing coins or trash into the sacred hot spring pools, as they are deeply respected by the local community.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Beppu Hot Spring Festival in early April features spectacular parades, traditional dances, and special illuminations around the Kannawa hell districts.

• Winter Illumination events often light up the steam and surrounding trees with vibrant LED colors, creating a mystical nighttime atmosphere at select hells.

• During the summer Obon season, local vendors set up special food stalls near the bus hubs offering seasonal chilled treats and regional specialties.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay strictly within the designated viewing areas and behind all safety railings, as the water in the hells is near boiling point and can cause severe burns.

• Watch your step on the wooden boardwalks and stone paths, which can become extremely slippery from the constant condensation and steam.

• Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shaded areas, as the combination of geothermal heat and high humidity can lead to quick exhaustion.