1-day tour to Beppu, Yufuin Onsen, Kinrinko Lake, Kyushu Wildlife Park African Safari and Umi Jigoku Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Witness the striking cobalt blue waters and billowing steam of Umi Jigoku, the most spectacular of the Beppu Hells.

• Feed and observe majestic lions, giraffes, and elephants up close during the thrilling Kyushu Wildlife Park African Safari bus ride.

• Stroll around the mystical Kinrinko Lake in Yufuin, where hot and cold springs create a mesmerizing mist over the water.

• Soak in the charming, rustic atmosphere of Yufuin Onsen town and browse its quaint artisan shops and cafes.

Hidden Gems

• Look for the traditional foot baths scattered around Yufuin, offering a quick and free way to experience the healing onsen waters without fully undressing.

• Visit the small shrines hidden near the edges of Kinrinko Lake, which are often missed by tour groups rushing to the main viewing decks.

• Keep an eye out for the red-crowned cranes and local wild macaques that occasionally wander near the outskirts of the safari park and Beppu valleys.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy the convenience of a dedicated driver-guide who navigates the winding Kyushu mountain roads, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery stress-free.

• Experience a perfectly curated mix of dramatic geothermal phenomena, thrilling wildlife safaris, and tranquil onsen town vibes all in one comprehensive day.

• Benefit from seamless designated meeting point pickups in Fukuoka, maximizing your sightseeing time without worrying about complex rural train transfers.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures are ideal to beat the crowds at the Beppu Hells and catch the beautiful morning mist rising off Kinrinko Lake. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage in Yufuin, while spring brings pleasant weather and blooming flora around the safari park.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the dramatic contrast of the bright blue water and white steam at Umi Jigoku by using a polarizing filter or adjusting your exposure to handle the bright steam clouds.

• For the best shots at Kinrinko Lake, head to the eastern shore in the early afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the torii gate and the misty water surface.

• Use a fast shutter speed and burst mode on your camera or smartphone during the safari ride to capture sharp images of moving wildlife from the bus window.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the onsen town of Yufuin, it is customary to speak softly and respect the peaceful atmosphere of the residential and ryokan areas. If you choose to use the public foot baths, be sure to wash your feet before entering and bring a small towel to dry them afterward, as is the local etiquette.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Beppu Hells are beautifully illuminated during the winter months, creating a magical, steamy nightscape that contrasts with the cold air.

• Yufuin hosts the stunning Yufuin Lantern Festival in autumn, where thousands of bamboo lanterns light up the streets and the shores of Kinrinko Lake.

• Springtime at the Kyushu Wildlife Park often features special baby animal exhibitions and seasonal flower blooms along the safari routes.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay strictly on the marked pathways and behind the safety barriers at the Beppu Hells, as the geothermal water is near boiling point and can cause severe burns.

• Keep your hands and arms inside the safari bus at all times, and follow the driver's instructions closely when interacting with or feeding the wild animals.

• Watch your step on the wooden boardwalks and stone paths around Kinrinko Lake, as they can become quite slippery from the constant hot spring mist and humidity.