Beppu Hells Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Witness the mesmerizing cobalt blue waters of Sea Hell and enjoy the lush tropical gardens surrounding it.

• Watch the dramatic, scheduled eruptions of Tornado Hell, one of the few natural geysers in the world.

• Marvel at the striking blood-red, iron-rich waters of Blood Pond Hell while learning about its ancient textile dyeing history.

• Indulge in unique hell-steamed snacks and onsen-boiled eggs available at the various gift shops and food stalls across the circuit.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the resident crocodiles at Ghost Mountain Hell, which has been breeding them using the natural geothermal heat since the 1920s.

• Discover the foot baths scattered around the Sea Hell and Kitchen Hell areas, perfect for a quick, relaxing soak without needing a full onsen visit.

• Visit the lesser-known White Pond Hell early in the morning to see the milky white water at its most vibrant before the daily crowds arrive.

What Makes it Special

• The pass provides massive savings compared to buying individual tickets, allowing you to experience all seven iconic hells on one convenient, budget-friendly itinerary.

• It offers a deep dive into the rich geothermal heritage and ancient folklore of Beppu, showcasing natural phenomena that have shaped local culture for centuries.

• Travellers can opt for the premium package that includes reserved Shinkansen seating between Shin-Osaka and Hakata, ensuring a stress-free and comfortable journey to Kyushu.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is early morning right at opening time to avoid the midday tour bus crowds and capture the steam beautifully in the crisp morning light. Autumn and spring offer the most pleasant weather for walking the outdoor circuits, while winter mornings provide a stunning contrast between the cold air and the thick, rising geothermal steam.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a polarizing filter or adjust your exposure to capture the vivid, saturated colors of the cobalt and blood-red ponds without washing out the reflections.

• For the Tornado Hell geyser, check the eruption schedule posted at the entrance and use a fast shutter speed to freeze the dramatic burst of boiling water.

• Embrace the atmospheric steam rising from the hells by shooting during the golden hour or early morning when the low sunlight illuminates the vapor.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When using the public foot baths, it is customary to wash your feet briefly if they are visibly dirty, and you must dry them completely with your own towel before walking on the surrounding pathways. Please refrain from throwing coins or any objects into the hells, as they are protected natural geological sites and local shrines. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, especially near the small shrines and statues dedicated to the local deities scattered around the grounds.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the Beppu Hells Night Tour in select seasons, some hells are illuminated with dramatic lighting, offering a mystical and eerie evening experience.

• In spring, the lush gardens surrounding Sea Hell and White Pond Hell bloom beautifully, creating a stunning contrast between the vibrant flora and the steaming geothermal ponds.

• The annual Beppu Hells Meguri Festival often features special stamp rallies and limited-edition local snacks available only at the hell gift shops.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Never cross the safety barriers or attempt to touch the water, as the temperatures in the hells frequently exceed 90 degrees Celsius and can cause instant, severe burns.

• Be mindful of the thick steam clouds that can occasionally drift over the walkways, which may temporarily reduce visibility and make the ground slippery.

• Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shaded areas, as the ambient heat from the geothermal vents can make the circuit feel much warmer than the actual weather.