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• Beppu & Yufuin
• Hells of Beppu

Hells of Beppu 別府地獄めぐり

559-1 Kannawa, Beppu-shi, Oita-ken

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Explore seven bubbling onsen hell spots

Located in Beppu's Kannawa and Kamegawa regions, Beppu's Jigoku—also known as the Seven Hells of Beppu—got the name from the mysterious and temperamental springs here. Boiling water and gas bubbled up from the land so violently that people in ancient times loathed its presence.

You can witness the same expulsions of gas, iron oxide-rich steam and bubbling hot mud that have continued to spook guests and locals since the beginning of time.

• Experiencing all seven hells, each with distinctive characteristics
• Trying an egg and pudding steamed in these natural hells
• A visit to "alligator hell" to view the reptilian residents

How to Get There

From Beppu Station, take a 20-minute ride on a No. 2, 5, 24, or 41 bus and get off at Kannawa or Umi-Jigoku-mae stop; from there the Kannawa area, from Umni-Jigoku to Shiraike-Jigoku, can be reached by foot. Parking is available at all the hell sites.

Buy a Meguri pass

One of the best ways to explore the area is by getting a pass for the Jigoku Meguri, a tour bus. The tour visits all seven hells in around 2 to 2.5 hours. Five of the hells are in the Kannawa district area, and two are in the Shibaseki district. The pass for all seven hells costs 2000 yen. Entry into hells individually is also possible for 400 yen per visit.

Wild things and sites of beauty

Oniyama Jigoku is an animal preserve better known as "alligator hell." There are around 80 alligators here. Note that the jigoku are for viewing, not for bathing in, since they can reach temperatures of about 99 degrees Celsius. Four of them (Umi Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku, Tatsumaki Jigoku and Shiraiike Jigoku) are designated as National Places of Scenic Beauty.

A unique way to cook

Literally meaning hell-steaming, jigoku mushi is a traditional way of cooking using the steam of a hot spring. It dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867) and is a healthy way to prepare food while also enhancing its dramatic flavor.

Some hells sell specialty soft-boiled eggs and baked pudding, which have been steamed using the heat from the fiery hot springs.

Seven hell highlights

The largest of the hells is Umi (Sea) Jigoku, so named because of its cobalt blue color. It is 200 meters deep. The boiling clay of Chinoike (blood lake) Jigoku is blood red; this is the oldest of Japan's hells.

Rent your own hell oven

In Furomoto, you can buy a set of vegetables, meat or fish produce and cook the ingredients using a special steaming oven. Rental of the oven is extra. Be careful as the steam can escape with force when you open the steaming pots after cooking.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Ultimate Guide To The Hells Of Beppu Japan

Have you ever visited the Hells of Beppu, Japan ? Located in Oita, Kyushu island, Beppu is home to more than 2500 onsen and the famous eight super-hot lakes, often known as the Hells of Beppu.

I lived in Beppu for three years and had lots of time exploring the area. Here is my insider guide to the Hells of Beppu and tips to enjoy the best of your day here.

This article includes the following sections :

• About Beppu Hell Tour (Jigoku Meguri)
• Best places to stay
• How to get to the Hells of Beppu
• The best hells to visit
• What to eat in Beppu

What is Jigoku Meguri?

Jigoku Meguri (Beppu Hell Tour) is a famous sightseeing tour including eight nearby hot springs. “Hot and boiling water as if it comes from hell” is how the area gains its name. 

The hells include Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell), Oniyama Jigoku (Devil Mountain Hell), Oniishibozu Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell), and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell).

How to visit Hells of Beppu

All the hot springs mentioned above are concentrated in the hilly area north of the city but two different areas.

The areas are about 3km apart. Usually, people will drive or catch a bus to travel between these two areas, but you can also walk about 40 minutes.

For 1 day Beppu Hell Tour, you can start at Umi Jigoku, walk and look around  Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, Yama Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku and Oniyama Jigoku.

For Chinoike and Tatsumaki Jigoku, you should travel by bus.

The best way to visit Hells of Beppu is to purchase a Jigoku Meguri Pass and Kamenoi Bus 1-day Pass. The Kamenoi Bus 1 Day Pass offers unlimited rides within the date so that you can get around easily.

How to get to Jigoku Meguri Beppu Hell Tour

From JR Beppu Station Nishi-guchi (West Gate), you take Kamenoi bus No. 2, 5, 41, or 43 to Umi-Jigoku-mae or Kannawa station. 

By car, from Oita motorway “Beppu IC,” take the provincial road No. 11, heading for Kannawa Onsen. It takes about 5 minutes to reach Kanawa.

How to buy Jigoku Meguri Pass

If you arrive at Fukuoka airport, you can book your Jigoku Pass and Kamenoi Bus online and receive your voucher at the counter. 

Alternatively, you can also purchase a Jigoku Pass in Beppu, Kanawa, or in front of the entrance of any Jigoku. 

How to redeem your voucher

You can easily redeem the voucher at the HIS counter at Fukuoka Airport International Terminal. The voucher is valid for 30 days, and you present it outside Umi Jigoku to receive the booklet.

Best hot spring to visit on Jigoku Meguri Tour

Umi jigoku (sea hell).

Umi Jigoku is the largest hot spring in the Beppu Hell tour. This cobalt-blue lake was formed by the activity of the Tsurumidake volcano about 1200 years ago.

The name came from its color, meaning blue sea hell. Despite its name, the lake has a temperature of up to 98 degrees.

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Hell)

The Blood Pond Hell of Chinoike Jigoku will take your breath away with its vivid color like blood. 

Chinoike Jigoku has existed for more than 1300 years and is one of Japan’s oldest natural hot springs. The color comes from heavy metal in the lake. 

Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell)

Kamado Jigoku is a great place to have your hot spring experience. You can sit and warm up your feet on the hot stones or drink and taste the hot spring water here. 

Also, there’s a photogenic cobalt blue pond as well.

Oniishi Bozu Jigoku

This place is called “Oniishi shaven head hell” after the area’s name – Oniishi. People say the bubbles of the hot gray mud look like the shaven heads of the monks. Do you think so? 

Oniyama Jigoku (Monster Mountain Hell)

Oniyama Jigoku is where you can see the crocodiles!

The place started breeding crocodiles in the Taisho period (1912 to 1926) using the temperature and natural conditions to maintain a suitable living environment.

You can also see the display of Kurokodairu Ichiro crocodile raised in the past. Ichiro died at the age of 71 and was the oldest crocodile raised in Oniyama Jigoku.

Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell)

Shirake means white pond in Japanese, even though the color is bluer. 

This pond features a hot and milky white color and smoke due to boric acid, salt, sodium silicate, and calcium bicarbonate reaction.

Tatsumaki Jigoku (Spout hell)

Last on this list is Tatsumaki Jigoku. This hell is next to Chinoike Jigoku, and you may skip it if you don’t have much time.

There is a powerful geyser, and it sprays every 30 min for around 10 min, so you have to sit and wait until it does. It wasn’t fascinating, in my opinion.

What to eat on the Beppu Hell Tour

After the Hells Tour, what do you think about a hell-steamed meal?

“Hell-steam” cuisine is a local specialty of Beppu onsen. This delicious and healthy cooking method uses the fumes of the hot spring, so high-temperature steam allows the food to be steamed up all in one go.

You can enjoy steamed meals at   Geothermal Tourism Lab Enma or local restaurants in the Kanawa area. 

Alternatively, if you’d like to try steaming your meals, you can do it at the Jigokumushi Kobo Steam Cooking Center near Kannawa. 

Onsen Tamago

Onsen Tamago is one of the must-try dishes on your Bepppu trip.

This Hot spring boiled egg is is slowly prepared in hot spring water to create silky egg white and custard-like yolk. You can find it at most hot springs on tour. 

Jigoku Purin (Hell-steamed pudding)

This hell-steamed pudding is an excellent treat on your trip to Beppu.

Cooked in the onsen steam, this pudding has just the right amount of bitterness to the caramel, and its rich flavor will keep you coming back for more.

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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Jigoku Meguri

The hells of beppu.

Jigoku Meguri is the Japanese name of the eight "hells" (seven officially) of Beppu. They are spectacular natural hot springs, located in Beppu’s Kannawa and Kamegawa neighborhoods in Oita Prefecture, on Kyushu Island in the south of Japan.

As explained in our visit of Beppu , one of the city’s main attractions is the Jigoku Meguri tour. This several thousand-years old itinerary offers a very original and picturesque touristic highlight on the city. Moreover, they were designated "National Place of Scenic Beauty" by the Japanese government. This site is well-known among the Japanese, and it is very interesting to include it in a sightseeing tour of Kyushu .

The Hells of Beppu are scattered throughout the city. Six are located in the north, in Kannawa district:

• Umi -Jigoku ("sea hell"), with cobalt blue steaming water and with giant water lilies leaves sturdy enough to withstand a weight up to 20kg;
• Oniishibozu -Jigoku ("monk head"), with large bubbles of grey silt at its surface and a foot bath;
• Kamado -Jigoku ("cauldron"), with an old-fashioned kitchen and a picturesque decor – our front picture ;
• Oniyama -Jigoku ("demon mountain "), home to crocodiles since 1923;
• Shiraike -Jigoku ("white lake") with a cloudy water and old tropical plant species;
• Yama -Jigoku ("mountain"), with a small zoo and steam rising to the mountain – however it has recently been removed from the list of the Jigoku’s included in the pass.

...and two are closer to the coast, in Shibaseki:

• Chinoike -Jigoku ("blood pond"), the oldest of all with its sea of red clay;
• Tatsumaki -Jigoku ("geyser") and its powerful fountain with perfect regularity twice a day.

These very special onsen   ♨️ each have specific benefits, but you can not bath in them as their temperatures frequently exceed 100°C / 212°F. Therefore, be aware of the heat, even in their surroundings, after all they are named "Hells" for a reason! However, everyone can visit and admire them, or buy salt or soap created on their basis, which are exported worldwide, mainly in organic products shops.

Some of these hells stand out more than the others. Therefore, we recommend focusing especially on Kamado, Oniishibozu, Umi and Chinoike, so as to enjoy your visit to the fullest, without spending the day in a hurry to see them all.

In the video clip above, we gathered images of the most characteristic onsen to visit with their sound ambiances. Hopefully this can help you feel the heat and atmosphere emerging from these unique places.

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Jigoku Meguri Tour: The Hotspring Hells Of beppu

• September 30, 2022

Sightseeing in Beppu, the holy land of hot springs

Beppu City in Oita Prefecture is also known for its many hot springs. Apart from simply soaking in the hot water and enjoying the benefits of the hot springs, Beppu Onsen is also popular for sightseeing and enjoying the hot springs. The “Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)” is a popular tourist attraction that takes advantage of the unique characteristics of Beppu Onsen.

Why is it called “Hell”?

The prefecture is also number one in Japan for geothermal power generation using its abundant hot springs, and it is no exaggeration to say that many of the industries in the prefecture are related in some way to the blessings of the hot springs. The food culture, medical care, beauty and health are also deeply related to hot springs, and it has become widely known that “Oita Prefecture is known for its hot springs”.

Beppu City is a natural hot spring resort.

There are many naturally bubbling hot springs in Beppu City, and you can enjoy some of the most unusual sights in the world. The hot springs that spring up are reminiscent of the magma of hell, and so each spring is named “XX Hell” and opened as a tourist attraction. Many of the hells have different colors depending on the quality of the spring water, creating a mysterious sight. Enjoy an exciting tour of hells while experiencing the power of nature. There are a total of eight hells that are members of the Hell Association, and many tourists use the “8 Hells Common Ticket” to conquer all of them. You can take a tour while listening to a guide on Kamenoi Regular Tour Bus.

If you come to Beppu Onsen, you must see Hell

The sources of Beppu Onsen are spread all over the place with different colors such as blue, red and white due to their different contents, and geysers and other features that are different from those of the other hot springs in the area. Because there are many facilities that use the hot springs, they are often visited in conjunction with the “Jigoku Meguri” tour, which is the general term for a tour of the area.

There are over 1,200 hot spring resorts in Japan.

Many of the springs appeared as a result of volcanic eruptions 12 million years ago. The area has rapidly become a tourist attraction since the 1900s, and in the past it was referred to as a place like hell, where people were not allowed to go. The name of the place is still used today, but it has become a tourist attraction since the 1900s.

Why are the hot springs so colorful, with cobalt blue, red, pure white, orange, and other colors that one would not expect from a hot spring? Of course, these are all natural colors. You may have heard that hot water containing a lot of iron changes to red when it reacts with oxygen in the air. The hells that show mysterious colors depending on the ingredients contained in the hot spring are given appropriate names. The four hells, Sea, Pool of Blood, White Pond and Dragon Scroll, were designated as national scenic spots in 2009. They are highly regarded not only for their tourist value but also academically, and are the first hot springs in Japan to be designated as a place of scenic beauty. Six of the eight representative hells can be visited on foot, but the Pool of Blood and Tatsumaki Hell are conveniently accessible by car.

Each of the eight hells has its own unique characteristics

There are a total of eight hells that are members of the Beppu Hell Association. Sea Hell, Onishi-bouzu Hell, Mountain Hell, Kamado Hell, Shiraike Hell, Blood Pond Hell, and Tatsumaki Hell. Six of these eight jigokus are located in Kannawa Onsen, and those of Boku no Ike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku are located in Shibaseki Onsen, which is a little far from Kannawa. The hells that have joined the Hell Association can be conveniently accessed with a common admission ticket or a regular sightseeing bus.

Some hot springs are characterized by the colors of their springs, such as red, blue and white. Some springs erupt in geysers. In many cases, the heat from the hot springs is used to raise plants and animals, and it is rare even in Japan to visit a hot spring resort where sightseeing is the main attraction rather than bathing.

There are also sources that are not members of the Hell Association, so it is interesting to visit these hells.

Boju Jigoku, designated as a natural monument by the prefecture, is said to have exploded due to an earthquake in 1498, ripping open the ground and spewing out hot mud. Although it is not included in the regular sightseeing course because it is not a member of the union, it is one of the hells that you should visit to find the difference from Onishihonbojigoku.

A hot spring worthy of being called hell

Let’s see the four colors of hell

The four hells of Umi Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku, Oniyama Jigoku and Blood Pond Jigoku are the four hells that resemble hell in terms of the colors of their hot springs. Umi Jigoku looks cool at first glance with its beautiful cobalt blue color, but it is extremely hot at 98 degrees. Shiraike Jigoku is transparent when it erupts, but turns cloudy white when it comes into contact with the open air. The hot water in Blood Pond Hell looks red due to iron oxide, and the greenish-white hot water in Oniyama Hell.

Powerful! Hells with Distinctive Characteristics

Onishiyama Jigoku is a hell where hot mud blows up and is characterized by its whitish color.

Sanjigoku Hell

is a different type of hell from the other hells, as it shows steam rather than hot springs blowing up. Tatsumaki Jigoku, on the other hand, is known as a geyser and erupts once every 20 to 40 minutes. Unlike the world’s proposed barrel geysers, Tatsumaki Jigoku is characterized by its short eruption intervals.

Perfect for cooking rice?

The Kamado Hell, named after the rice that was cooked to offer before the gods, originates from the great festival of the Kamamon Hachiman Shrine. It has the atmosphere of a smaller version of the other hells, and is a collection of hells named Hells 1-6. The temperature of the water is 90 degrees, so it was probably suitable for cooking rice.

Highlight of the Hell Tour

Beautiful blue and variety of hells

Umi Jigoku is the largest of Beppu’s hells. It has a beautiful, cool color, but it’s a scorching hot hell of 98 degrees Celsius! The suspiciously blue color is produced by iron sulfate. When you see it up close, you’ll be enveloped in a thick heat. You can enjoy onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) by boiling an egg in a basket, and it is one of the most popular spots in Beppu Hell.

“Sanjigoku” is a wild hell where steam rises from the surface of the mountain, creating a spectacle similar to an active volcano. Many animals are kept here using the heat from the steam, and there is a mini zoo attached to the site. Hippopotamuses, Japanese macaques, African elephants, and other animals are kept here, and despite their appearance and the name “hell,” the living environment is like “paradise” for the animals even in the cold winter.

The “Kamado Hell,” named after the fumaroles used to cook rice during the great festival of the Kamakamon Hachiman Shrine, is a digest version of the six hells. The hells named 1-chome to 6-chome of hell are not so much hells as paradise zones. Visitors can experience the splendor of Beppu Onsen through footbaths, skin baths, private baths, and hot springs to drink, in addition to just looking at the hot springs. The “Jigoku no 3-chome” is a beautiful blue-white bath. You can take a private bath for free. You will be bathing in hell, but you will feel like you are in paradise.

Here is Hell in all its colors and shapes

The crocodiles that have been kept here since 1923 using the heat from the hot springs are in “Oniyama Jigoku”, which is green-white in color and more powerful visually than beautiful. Also known as “Crocodile Hell”, about 100 crocodiles from all over the world gather here. If you want to see crocodiles waiting for food with their big mouths open, you should go during feeding time, and there is a stuffed crocodile “Ichiro”, the world’s oldest recorded crocodile who lived from 1925 to 1996.

The water in Shiraike Hell is clear when it gushes out, but turns cloudy white as time goes by. The color of the slightly bluish white water changes as it comes into contact with the outside air and the temperature drops. Pirarucu and piranhas are kept in the tropical fish pavilion.

The “Onishi Boshu Jigoku” is where hot mud like a monk’s head bubbles up. It has a long history and has flourished as a tourist attraction, appearing in the Bungo Fudoki (Record of the History of Bungo) compiled in 733. The “Onishi no Yu” at the back of the hell is available for 620 yen for adults, 300 yen for elementary school students and 200 yen for infants. 5 family bath rooms are available for 2,000 yen or more for up to 4 people per hour. Shampoo, soap, hair dryer, and coin lockers are available for free, and towels can be purchased at the reception.

Let’s enjoy the Hell-like atmosphere

The most hell-like view can be enjoyed at the Blood Pond Hell. The bright red color of the water is reminiscent of a pond of blood, and its presence is the best in all of Beppu’s hells. In 1927, there was a huge explosion and the hot water rose up to 220m. The reddish color of the water is due to iron oxide, not blood. Here you can get original souvenirs such as “Blood Pond Ointment” made from the precipitates of Blood Pond Hell and red pudding made in the image of Hell.

Tatsumaki Jigoku is a geyser that spews out 105 degrees of boiling water with constant fumaroles. The amount of water gushing out is said to be 800 kl a day, and it erupts in 20 to 40 minute spurts. It is said that the temperature rises to 150 degrees Celsius deep underground when the water is heated, but the temperature drops to around 100 degrees Celsius as it evaporates during the eruption.It is dangerous for tourists to be exposed to boiling water of around 100 degrees Celsius, so it is not quite the geyser you might imagine, but the sight of a shower of boiling water erupting out of the water is very powerful. The sight of a shower of boiling water erupting from it is very powerful.

A tour of hell reveals some interesting things

Using the hot water of hell

There are many attractions in the Hell Tour, such as using the heat from the hot springs to grow plants and breed temperate zone creatures. For example, in Umi-Jigoku, Onibasu are cultivated using hot spring water, and in San-Jigoku, a mini zoo is attached by using the heat from the hot springs. In Oniyama Hell, also known as “Crocodile Hell,” several species of crocodiles, about 100 of them, are kept here.

Other hells also have much to offer

In terms of the number of hells, there are several hells that are not members of the Hell Association, and each has its own characteristics. There are also many hells that once existed but are now closed, and just knowing about some of them is interesting.

Jigoku Meguri Fees

Great deals on common admission tickets

If you want to visit the hells that are members of the Hell Association, you can save money by purchasing the “8 Hells Common Ticket”. The tickets can be purchased at any of the hells and are valid from the day of purchase until the next day. Adults 2,100 yen, high school students 1,350 yen, junior high school students 1,000 yen, elementary school students 900 yen. Business hours are from 8:00 to 17:00 all year round. Each hell is equipped with a free parking lot, and the largest parking lot is 180 cars at Umi-Jigoku. The Beppu Hell Association distributes discount coupons on their website, and if you show them you can get a 10% discount on the entrance fee. You can get the pamphlet when you buy a common ticket, but if you want to get it quickly, you can also download the PDF file on the association’s homepage.

Various events are held including summer vacation, and both adults and children can fully enjoy themselves. In particular, in Kamado Hell, you can enjoy a total of three different types of footbaths, including sand steam footbaths and pebble footbaths, so it will be interesting to compare them. There are many elements to enjoy the characteristic hells to the fullest.

Let’s enjoy a hell steam lunch

Six of the hells that are members of the Hell Association are located in Kannawa Onsen, but what you should take the time to enjoy here is “jigoku-mushi” (steamed in hell). This is a cooking method that uses the steam from the hot springs to steam the ingredients, allowing you to experience steamed dishes that remove excess fat and scum. You can buy the ingredients for steaming as a set, or you can bring your own if you have meat, fish, or buns you would like to try.

First, after purchasing the basic fee and ingredients from the ticket machine if necessary, follow the instructions of the staff to steam the ingredients. The recommended ingredient is, after all, eggs. Steaming time is about 8 to 10 minutes, and the tender texture will make you addicted to it. We also recommend sweet potatoes, which take a little longer. It is sweeter than steaming with gas. The salt in the steam from the hot spring will add a secret flavor. Leafy vegetables are steamed quickly and colorfully. They should have a crispy texture. Some people steam a large amount of jigoku-mushi and take it home as a souvenir.

The steaming sets available include the standard vegetable set, seafood set, and seafood set. There are many variations such as the standard vegetable set, seafood set, steamed bread, and wappa rice. Choose one, steam it yourself, and eat it. It will be a delicious lunch that will leave a lasting impression on your mind more than any other place you can enjoy. After you finish eating, it is the manner of the workshop to wash the used colander and plates by yourself at the cooking area. Leaving them on the table is strictly forbidden! Let’s follow the rules to enjoy the whole experience. Jigokumushi is available at “Jigokumushi Kobo Kannushi Kannawa”, and the director, who was born and raised in Kannawa, eats Jigokumushi lunch everyday to keep himself in good health. He recommends steamed root vegetables. There is a supermarket about 3 minutes drive from the workshop, so if you have any ingredients you want to try, go there!

Recommended Accommodations in Beppu

Once you’ve had your fill of Beppu’s hell tours, you’ll want to consider the inns. Our recommended inn is Choujuso, a long-established ryokan with a history of over 100 years. A three-minute walk from the inn will take you to Takegawara Onsen (hot spring), and Beppu Bay is also nearby, so you can enjoy the sea breeze as you enjoy the hot spring baths. The inn is only a 10-minute walk from Beppu Station, and is recommended not only as a place to stay during the Hell Tour but also for business travelers. The number of guest rooms is small (5), but the family-like atmosphere is warm.

If access to the Hell Meguri is important to you, we recommend the Hotel Kannawa, Beppu Kannawa Onsen Genen no Yuyado. The hotel offers a buffet-style dinner, so you can eat as much or as little as you like. Enjoy the hot spring water and the next day’s hell tour.

Beppu Hell Tour Access

Time required to visit hells

The Beppu Hell Tour can be completed in about two and a half hours if you just want to look around the hells. It takes one hour to visit Onishihobojigoku, Umi-jigoku and San-chi-gokoku, 20 minutes to visit Kamado Jigoku and Oniyama Jigoku, and about 10 minutes to visit Shiraike Jigoku. It takes 10 minutes to go to Blood Pond Hell and Tatsumaki Hell from there, and it takes about 40 minutes to visit each hell. However, if you visit each facility, you should take enough time for a day or two because animals and plants are raised using the heat of the hot spring.

Additionally, you can rent a car.

It is almost unnecessary to rent a car, and you can conquer the eight hells by taking a regular sightseeing bus with a guide. If you want to tour efficiently, it is best to visit in the following order: Sea, Onishi-boto, Mountain, Kamado, Oniyama, Shiraike, Blood Pond, and Ryumaki. However, since Tatsumaki Hell has geysers every 20 to 40 minutes, it would be better to check the time of the most recent eruption and go to the Blood Pond Hell first. Kinryu Jigoku, which is not a member of the Hell Association, is open from 8:00 to 17:00, 200 yen for adults and 100 yen for children. Bozu Jigoku” is open from 8:30 to 17:00, and both are open all year round.

If you want to pick up the time, let’s visit Umi-Jigoku and Mado-Jigoku. Umi Jigoku has a large site and is well stocked with souvenirs. There are many places of interest in addition to the hells, so if you can’t visit all of them but want to see at least one, we recommend going to Umi-Jigoku.

Access to Hell

To access the 8 hells, get off at the Beppu Interchange on the Oita Expressway and head towards Kannawa on Prefectural Road 11 if you are starting from Umi-Jigoku. Go straight for about 5 minutes. If you take a local bus, take the Kamenoi Bus bound for Kannawa from the West Exit of Beppu Station, and it takes about 20 minutes. If you take the highway bus, get off at Kannawa Exit and you will be right in front of the bus stop.

Blood Pond and Dragon Pond

The shortest route from Kannawa Onsen Jigoku is to turn right at the Beppu Interchange exit intersection, turn left at the Kannawa Onsen Iriguchi intersection, and go straight. You can take the same bus as the one for Umi-Jigoku, but it is best to get off in front of Kukono-ike Jigoku. If you take a taxi, be prepared to pay about 1,000 to 2,000 yen.

Hells (Jigoku)

The "hells" (�n��, jigoku) of Beppu are seven spectacular hot springs for viewing rather than bathing , displaying steaming ponds of various colors, bubbling mud pools and other hydrothermal activity.

The hells are presented to visitors in a rather touristy fashion which may not appeal to everybody.

Five of the seven hells are located in the Kannawa district, and two in the more remote Shibaseki district.

Kannawa District

Oniishibozu Jigoku

Shiraike Jigoku

Kamado Jigoku

Oniyama Jigoku

Shibaseki district.

Chinoike Jigoku

Tatsumaki Jigoku

Getting there and around.

The five hells in the Kannawa district can be easily accessed by frequently departing buses from JR Beppu Station in about 15 minutes. Bus number 5 and 7 are the fastest. Get off at Kannawa bus terminal, from where the hells can be reached on foot.

Bus number 16/16A runs twice per hour from Kannawa to Shibaseki (5 minutes) where the remaining two hells are located. The bus then continues via Kamegawa Station to Beppu Station (40 minutes). Bus number 26/26A runs in the opposite direction of bus number 16/16A.

Beppu is also easily explored by rental car . Free parking is provided at all the hells.

How to get to and around Beppu

Hours and Fees

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Beppu jigoku, hotels around beppu.

Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)

Umi Jigoku (sea hell)

Oniishibozu zjigoku (monk’s hell)

Kamado Jigoku (cooking pot hell)

Oniyama Jigoku (monster mountain hell)

Shiraike Jigoku (white pond hell)

Tatsumaki Jigoku (spout hell)

Chinoike Jigoku (blood pond hell)

(Source: naoima /shutterstock )

7 Beppu Hells (Jigoku) – Oita

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Located in the city of Beppu in Oita Prefecture, Beppu Jigoku, or the “Beppu Hells,” is a group of seven stunning hot springs that offer visitors an unforgettable experience of Japan’s hot spring culture.

Each of the seven hot springs, or “Hells” in Beppu Jigoku has a unique appearance and features, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Umi Jigoku: This Hell is known for its vibrant blue color and features a large pond filled with hot water. Given the scenery, and grounds of Umi Jigoku, this “Hell” is one of the more visually stunning of the Hells. 

Found also with the Umi Jigoku grounds, is Akaike, a smaller, lesser known Jigoku (sometimes refered to as the eigth hell), with vibrant red water.

Oniishibozu Jigoku: This Hell gets its name from the small bubbles that rise to the surface, which resemble the shaven heads of Buddhist monks.

Kamado Jigoku: The Kamado Jigoku is known as the “Cooking pot hell”, which features several boiling ponds. Snacks are cooked and steamed at this Hell should you wish to try. Guests to this hell can also drink the hot spring water, and relax in foot baths.

Shiraike Jigoku: Shiraike Jigoku takes the whitest appearance of the hells, featuring a pond with hot, and a pale blue water.

Oniyama Jigoku: The Oniyama Jigoku is known for the crocodiles and aligators which are bred and kept in these warm waters from the jigoku.

Tatsumaki Jigoku: Tatsumaki Jigoku is a boiling geyser which erupts roughly every 30-45 minutes, for between 5-10 minutes a time. While waiting for the next eruption, there is a pleasant waiting area with frozen treats to snack on. 

Chinoike Jigoku: The Chinoike Jigoku is known for its bright red color, which is caused by the high iron content in the water. This high iron content creates one of the most visually unique “Hells” in Beppu, in where somedays the water could be described as “bloody”.

In general, the Beppu Hells are a spectacular geothermal attraction. Due to how the Hells are spread out, if you plan on seeing all seven, plus Akaike, we recommend the following viewing order; First, head to Umi Jigoku (plus Akaike), then head over to Oniishibozu Jigoku. followed by Kamado Jigoku, then see the Aligators at Oniyama Jigoku, the glistening white water of Shiraike Jigoku, then hop on a bus over to Chinoike Jigoku, and finish off with a cold treat while waiting forTatsumaki Jigoku to erupt.

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Hours and Admission

• Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm
• 400JPY Each "Hell", 2000JPY for all 7 "Hells"
• Average Time Spent: Several Hours between all "Hells"
• Official Website

At the Kamado Jigoku, you can pre-purchase your tickets online, and for a small additional fee, you can purchase Onsen Eggs, which are eggs that have been cooked at Kamado Jigoku. 

Kamado Jigoku

Where to stay, apa hotel beppu ekimae, seaside hotel mimatsu ooetei, accessing the beppu hells.

The Beppu Hells are located for the most part, close to each other. The exception to this is the Chinoike Jigoku, and the Tatsumaki Jigoku, which are located about 3.5km away from the other five “Hells”. 

 As the Hells are one of the top destinations in the City, there are numerous bus lines which pass by the Hells at most times through the day. Bus line 5 is one of the most direct lines, and will take you directly to Umijigoku mae bus stop, directly outside the “Hells”. This will cost 330JPY one way. 

To the Chinoike Jigoku from Beppu Station, the 26A is easiest route to take.  

To get from the five “Hells” to Chinoike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku, take the 16A bus from Kannawa Bus stop, a short walk from Shiraike Jigoku. The 16A can also be used in the opposite direction to get from Chikoike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku, to the other five “Hells”

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Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" 8 Hells Tour

Visit the 8 distinct natural hot spring sites in Beppu

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Beppu Station

By Haruka Saijo

Guest House Rojiura

By Sherilyn Siy

International Minshuku Kokage

Beppu Kamenoi Hotel

By Bradford Pomeroy

Beppu is famous for its natural hot springs or what we know as the 8 ' Jigoku ', which means 'burning hells'. What makes the 8 Jigoku of Beppu interesting is the distinctiveness of each one. You will have a good time marveling at each hot spring, interacting with the many attractions provided to entertain you, and have fun seeing other people having fun. Just get yourself to Beppu JR station, visit the information center, equip yourself with a 'hell passport' and one day bus pass, then enjoy the 8 hells of Beppu in half a day.

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Jigoku Meguri, Visiting the "Eight Hells" 地獄めぐり

• Published on : 05/01/2014
• Add to favorites

A steamy stroll

With cooking, horticulture and a crocodile farm, there are many benefits to this micro-climate.  The hot springs of Beppu are not just for relaxation. Welcome to hell!

This diabolical trip in the Kannawa neighborhood - which also includes a dozen public baths - is an "invitation to hell": eight small theme parks for another perspective on the hot springs of Beppu :

• Umi Jigoku  ("Sea Hell"), referring to the main pool whose milky blue waters make you want to dive right in. On a secondary pond, giant water lilies can support the weight of a child up to 20 kilos, and nearby shops offer a taste of the pudding and eggs cooked on site in the hot water and steam.
• Oniishibozu Jigoku ("Oniishi Monks Hell"), just across the way, bubbling shapes form on the surface of this pond like grayish mud circles, like the shaven heads of monks. An adjacent onsen is available (600 yen/adult and 300 yen/child).
• Yama Jigoku ("Mountain Hell"), on the way down, it would be a shame not to check out the small zoo nearby.
• Kamado Jigoku  ("Cauldron Hell"), delicious eggs cooked in sulfur steam baths are on offer here, as well as an onsen for hands and feet. Sample with caution!
• Oniyama Jigoku ("Monster Mountain Hell"), also known as Wani Jigoku ("Crocodile Hell") is a reptile farm raising over 80 different species of crocodiles and alligators.
• Shiraike Jigoku ("White Pond Hell") is home to a garden and a populated tropical fish tank.

Discover the Eight Hells, a video from Beppu Tourist Office.

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Hita guide, Oita, Kyushu: Hita is often called the Kyoto of Kyushu due to its atmospheric historic streets which were in part indeed originally modeled after Kyoto.

The city of Oita is located northeast of Kyushu Island in Beppu Bay. Despite being the capital of the prefecture of the same name, it's much less known than the neighboring city of Beppu.

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In Oita Prefecture, the small town of Kitsuki is worth a detour if you are passing through the region, especially to see Beppu.

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Journeying to the Eight Hells of Beppu

Beppu is a famously geothermal city on the island of Kyushu — more onsen water gushes from the ground here than anywhere else in Japan. Not all that water in the Beppu hot springs is for bathing in though; the most spectacular of the hot pools, boiling mud, and geysers make up the “Eight Hells” of Beppu and are for viewing rather than than soaking in.

A popular activity in the area (aside from the obvious relaxing in Beppu hot springs) is known as jigoku meguri — “tour of the hells” — in which tourists visit all eight onsen : Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) , Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell) , Oniyama Jigoku (Devil Mountain Hell) , Yama Jigoku (Mountain Hell), Oniishibozu Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) , and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell).

At four of the hot springs — Umi Jigoku, Kamadao Jigoku, Ishionibozu Jigoku, and Chinoike Jigoku — there are “ashi mizu” baths where you can soak your feet.

How to tour Hell

All of the hot springs are located in the hilly north of the city, but in two distinct areas. Within each area you can walk to each of the hells, but the two areas are separated by about 3km. Typically people drive or take a bus between the two areas, but it’s possible to walk between the areas in about 40 minutes.

You can take a bus from the west exit of Beppu Station. You should get on a bus bound for Kamenoi (numbers 2, 5, 7, or 41) and get off at either Umijikoku-mae or Kannawa. The trip takes 20 minutes and costs 330yen.

To get to Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell) you should take the number 16 bus from Kannnawa and get off at Chinoikejigoku-mae bus stop (6 minutes).

Both Umi Jigoku and Chinoike Jigoku have large, free parking lots. If you prefer to go by taxi, the fare from Beppu Station to Umi Jigoku is approximately 1,600yen.

How much does it cost?

There are two types of tickets available: a 2,000yen concession ticket that gives you access to all the hells or individual entry tickets for each priced at 400yen for adults. The concession tickets are also available at  1,350yen for high schoolers, 1,000yen for middle school students and 900yen for elementary school students. Entry to a single location is also available for 300yen , 250yen and 200yen for the same groups.

The custom is to visit all the hells, but if you just want to visit the most interesting, then Umi Jigoku, Oniyama Jigoku (with the crocodiles) and Chinoike Jigoku would suffice.

• Oniyama Jigoku (Devil Mountain Hell)
• Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell)
• Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell)
• Chinoike JIgoku (Blood Pond Hell)
• Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)
• Hot springs

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Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour

please plan and schedule enough time for the tour of all "7 hells".due to lack of planning and schedule on our own trip planning, we only managed to reach at only 3plus in the afternoon and had only enough time to comfortably do 1 hell tour. the hell that we went had an area with free foot onsen. it was refreshing soaking our feet on the hot spring water. it is recommended at least 2-3 hrs to complete all 7 hells.

Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

Explore near beppu "jigoku meguri" hells tour: where to stay, eat, and visit, beppu "jigoku meguri" hells tour reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

Beppu is a rich geothermal phenomenon, few places in the world can compare. Beppu is located in the northeast of Kyushu, near more than 3,500 hot springs, geysers and jet holes.

Although it is smaller than Yufuin, the sulfur effect is the best. It sells specialty sulfur and green tangerine liqueur liquor, especially sulfur is less than half the price of direct district. If you go, be sure to buy it.

We were pretty amaze with the place. Beppu is know for the hot springs especially its nestling at the foot of a volcano. The hot springs shows how hot it is with the bubbles coming out from it and the smoke… Some of it are in red color sure to the sulfur coming from the volcano.it was a nice vacation!

There are only seven of the eight hot springs in Beifu Hell, because one of them is under construction. From Buyuan Town, you can take a bus to Haiti Hell Station and get off to visit Haiti Hell Hot Spring. You can choose to buy a pass of 2000 yen, or a single ticket of 400 yen. Because after reading some comments on the internet, I think it's a waste of time to look at all the hot springs, because we have to rush from other places to the cloth yard. Finally, I chose to visit Haiti Hell, White Pool Hell, Hell of Blood Hell and Tornado Hell. The sequence of visits is: Haiti Hell, then walking to Baichi Hell, taking a bus at the bus stop near the first place of the idiot, No. 16 to Blood Hell, Xue Dingyu visited, next to Tornado Hell, and finally at the bus stop opposite Haihai Hell, still taking Bus No. 16 to the other government station. Bus No. 16 has a timetable. You can check the timetable at the gate of each hot spring. Personally, I recommend that Haiti's Hell of Blood is more shocking. Almost every Hell hot spring has a small hot spring beside which feet are soaked free of charge. It is recommended to bring a good towel.

There are eight representative hot springs. Two are close to each other and the other six are close to each other. The one-day bus ticket and eight hot spring ticket packages, more than 2700 yen per person, are much cheaper than the purchase alone. Eight hot springs have beautiful scenery and unique features. It is worth mentioning that boiled eggs, Magnolia and sweet potatoes sold by hot springs are delicious. In fact, another reason why I like Beifu very much is that the city is backed by mountains, standing on the streets of the city, you can see the blue Pacific Ocean, like that feeling. Beautiful!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour

What's the address of hells of beppu.

Preston_Dominguez : 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Ōita Prefecture

What's the recommended attractions near Hells of Beppu?

Jeremy_Dodson : I recommended Hells of Beppu,Umi Jigoku,Oniishibozu Jigoku,Oniyama Jigoku,Tatsumaki Jigoku

What hotels are near Hells of Beppu?

Messiah_Dillon : Here are some hotels near Hells of Beppu: Onsenkaku,Houzansou,Yumoto Miyoshi,Beppu Hanamizuki,Hotel Sansuikan

What restaurants are near Hells of Beppu?

Judah_Dillard : You could try Kamesho Kurukuru Sushi,Amamidyaya,Okamotoya Baiten,Sushi Meijin Bepputsurumi,DE YU ZHENG GONG FANG

Beppu "Jigoku Meguri" Hells Tour Photos: Trip Moments

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Japan , Oita Prefecture

Hell tour through eight hells of beppu.

• January 16, 2022

Jigoku Meguri (Beppu Hell Tour) is a famous sightseeing tour including seven nearby hot springs. Beppu hells (Jigoku) are unique hot springs that reach over 100 degrees Celsius and are the most renowned attraction in Beppu. In the olden days, people assumed those places were cursed because of the gas and water bubbling up and hence called them hells.

Chinoike and Tatsumaki Jigoku are in the Shibaseki district , while Shiraike, Oniyama, Kamado, Umi, and Oniishi Bozu Jigoku are in the Kannawa district . Technically, there are eight Hells, but Yama Jigoku is not included in the Jigoku Meguri  ticket (Hells pass). Each of the hot springs offers a unique experience and incredible views.

Umi Jigoku,  Sea Hell is the largest and one of the most picturesque hells. It features a bright, milk-like cobalt blue water pond, from which the name – Sea hell is derived. The color is natural and results from naturally high levels of iron sulfate. Its temperature reaches 98°C, so don’t think about taking a dip there.

Thermal water also provides a perfect environment for exotic plants spread all around spacious gardens. There are also smaller ponds on the premises, including a small red-orange hot spring called Akaike Jigoku and a lotus pond.

Once you are done walking around the gardens, you might want to relax your foot in a foot bath, try eggs boiled in hot spring water or a pudding and sweet buns steamed in hot spring steam. Boiled eggs are one of Umi Jigoku’sJigoku’s specialties as they are boiled in the waters of Umi Jigoku.

Oniishibouzu Jigoku

Oniishibouzu Jigoku, translated as Oniishi Bald Monk Hell, is known for its muddy bubbles created at the pond’s surface looking like a bald monk’s head. 

It used to be one big pond, but the owner created paths on top of it and separated the pond into several smaller ones for a better viewing experience.

Nearby, there is a lovely onsen called Oniishi no Yu . After the whole day of running around, it was a perfect place to stop and relax, enjoying a hot bath with my boyfriend. 

Yama Jigoku

Yama Jigoku or Mountain Hell. Located between Kamado and Umi Jigoku, it is the only hell that is not included in Hell’s Pass. They had a small zoo on the premises, where you could feed some animals like goats and capybara.

This was one Hells we were not big fans of. When we arrived, the workers went to the capybaras’ enclosure to get them out to interact with us, and that didn’t sit well with us. We are all for protecting animals, and it felt like animals in this zoo are used to generate money rather than to preserve anything.

Kamado Jigoku

Kamado Jigoku or Cooking Pot Hell is one of the most interesting hells, showcasing six distinct types of hot springs, each with different characteristics. The name came from a tool called Kamado, which was used for cooking rice used in an offering during the grand festival of the shrine god in Kamado Hachimangu Shrine.

You can find there two muddy bubbling hells that are similar to Oniishi Bozu Jigoku. In one of them, the staff showed us some tricks when they blew a lighted cigarette towards the vent, producing a large cloud of steam from it. The sapphire blue hell looks similar to Umi Jigoku, but it owes its blue color to the silica it contains. On the other hand, the red hell nearby owes its color to iron contained in the soil.

There is a possibility of taking a bath in a private onsen, Kamado no Yu . Ask for the details at the east ticket office entrance, where they will give you the key. The onsen is free of charge when you have an entrance ticket, but many people miss it because there are no English signs. 

When you are done walking around, sit and relax your tired legs in a hot foot bath. It was precisely what my legs needed after so many steps. 

If you wonder how the water from hell tastes, you can also try drinking it. There is an area where you could get a sip, though be careful the water is boiling hot.

Try also a special egg that is steam-cooked for over 24 hours in one of the hells. Its shell looks normal, but the color of the egg is different, and so is the taste. 

Kamado Jigoku is famous for the “Red Demon” soft ice cream, with seven-spice seasoning on top. We haven’t tried it, so I can’t say how good it is.

Oniyama Jigoku

Oniyama Jigoku, translated to Monster Mountain Hell, is home to 80 or so crocodiles. It was interesting to see those animals close by, but I can’t help but wonder if there is enough space for all of them. The area seemed extremely small compared to the number of animals living there.

Oniyama Jigoku started keeping crocodiles here in 1922, so soon, they will have their 100th anniversary. There is also an exhibition about the animals to learn more about them, their anatomy, and history. Depending on the day of your visit, you may catch the crocodile feedings.

Shiraike Jigoku

Shiraike Jigoku, translated as White Pond Hell, owes its name to the milky-bluish white-colored pond, with the temperature reaching 95°C.

This hell offers two main attractions besides the pond itself: a tranquil traditional Japanese garden surrounding the pond and an aquarium where you can see an assortment of tropical fish raised in waters warmed by hot spring.

Chinoike Jigoku

Chinoike Jigoku, or Blood Pond Hell, lies in Shibaseki District and is one of Japan’s oldest natural hot springs. The name is derived from its bloody vivid red mud containing iron oxide, magnesium oxide, and similar materials that react to temperature and pressure. The mud from Chinoike Jigoku, is said to have healing properties and has been used for ages in medicine and dyes.

Tatsumaki Jigoku

Tatsumaki Jigoku, or Tornado Hell, is located in Shibaseki District, 3 km away from the other hells. This hot spring features a geyser that erupts every 30-40 minutes and lasts for 6 to 10 minutes. 

The sight of the hot spring sending a jet of water and steam into the air is a sight to behold. If not for a roof built to protect the surrounding, the geyser could shoot 20-30 meters into the air. The erupting water can reach up to 150°C.

It’s such a rare sight that Tatsumaki Jigoku has been designated as a natural monument!

Entrance to each Hell costs 400 ¥ (as of November 2019), and if you are interested in visiting all seven of them (Yama Jigoku not included), then buying  Jigoku Meguri Pass  is a good deal for you. The pass costs 2000¥, giving you access to the seven hells in Kannawa and Shibaseki districts over two days.

You can get the Jigoku Meguri Pass at the Beppu Station Visitor Information Center or at the entrance of each hell.

Additionally, you can check the official webpage to see if any discounts are available.

In addition to the ticket, we also got a small booklet to collect stamps from all hells 🙂

How to get there

You can either walk or take a bus to where the hells are located. We just got a single ticket on the bus as we didn’t use busses that much but you can get a city bus pass called My Beppu Free Passport (Mini or Wide). You can use this pass to travel around Beppu city, Uchinari Rice Terrace, and Kijima Kogen park areas. They can be purchased at Beppu Station Visitor Information Center .

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• Hot Springs

Umi-Jigoku: The Largest of Beppu’s Hells

2021/03/04 Attractions , Beppu , Hells of Beppu , Historic , Japan , Nature , Oita , Sightseeing , Thermal Spring , Travel , What to See

In Beppu, a city of hot springs, there are many jigoku or hells where the water that gushes out creates a breathtaking sight. Jigoku meguri or hell tours have become a standard tourist activity. The most famous of these are the Blood Pond Hell and the Oniishi Bozu Hell, but the largest of these is the Umi-Jigoku or Sea Hell.

Umi-Jigoku has become especially popular recently, not only because of its size and beauty but also because of the many things to see and do there. Today, I will introduce some of the best things to do in Umi-Jigoku.

A Garden Where You Can Enjoy A Leisurely Stroll

Umi-Jigoku is surrounded by a spacious garden. The garden is well maintained with walking paths which are perfect for a leisurely stroll. There is also a somewhat tropical area with large palm trees growing in clusters.

Walking through the gardens of Umi-Jigoku, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, I felt as though time were passing slowly here. The air was so clear and clean that it felt really good.

The Spectacular Hakuryu Inari Daijin And Its Rows Of Torii Gates

As you walk up the hill from the edge of the pond in Umi-Jigoku, you will see a path lined with red torii gates. This is Hakuryu Inari Daijin.

It was a beautiful place that is uniquely Japanese and had a mysterious atmosphere. It’s also a spot that would look great on social media.

The Beautiful Cobalt Blue Sea Hell

The main attraction, Umi-Jigoku, is a beautiful cobalt blue color. The water temperature is almost 100 degrees Celsius. The steam rising up to cover the surface of the water gave it a fantastical appearance.

Akaike Hell in Contrasting Colors

On the site of Umi-Jigoku, there is another hell called Akaike Jigoku, which you can visit at the same time. It is characterized by its bright red color, in contrast to Umi-Jigoku. It has a very hellish sort of look to it. The vivid contrast of cobalt blue and copper red made me feel the mysterious power of nature.

Souvenirs Galore!

The store at Umi-Jigoku has a well-stocked souvenir corner. There is a wide variety of products available, and it is fun to just look around.

There are also many souvenirs that are only available here, such as Umi-Jigoku Authentic Shochu. It would be a good idea to buy all your Beppu souvenirs here.

Umi-Jigoku also has many other attractions, such as an observatory where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the hells; footbaths with hot spring water, and a greenhouse where you can enjoy tropical plants. If you go on a tour of the hells in Beppu, don’t miss a visit to Umi-Jigoku!

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Kyushu | Oita | Beppu

Beppu hells.

The hells of Beppu attract thousands of travelers as a viewing area of the iconic hot springs of Oita Prefecture, Japan. One of the famous springs also known as the landmark of the hells of Buppu is the Chinoike Jigoku or Bloody hell spring, which glows with a slightly natural crimson red. Visitors can experience the bloody spring by soaking into the free foot bath offered on the side. While at the Umi Jigoku, the beauty of the sea hell with clear water and spacious gardens provide guests with a more refreshing atmosphere compared to the other hells. Boiling mud bubbles at Oniishibozu Jigoku also offer guests a free foot bath in the muddy osen, which was once closed off to visitors, but later reopened in 2002. At Oniyama Jigoku, travelers can see crocodiles moving around in the ponds along with a gallery with information on the crocodiles and the history of this facility. The Kamado Jigoku is famous for the stream reaching over 90 degrees Celsius used to cook varies snacks in the area. The white pond and gardens are popular among locals along with a tropical aquarium and Buddhism art. At the Tatsumaki Jigoku, visitors are surrounded by beautiful flowers and butterflies followed by the famous geysers at this location. Don’t forget to try out some of the specialty items like the osen eggs, osen pudding and bloody pound cream only available at the Hells of Beppu.

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Hells of Beppu: Jigoku Onsen Guide

Beppu Jigoku Meguri Hells Tour: The Hot Spring Hells of Beppu

Do you dare to face the real HELL? The bloody red pond with rising steam just like “hell” does really exist in Japan. Visit the world’s most horrific and scary natural hot springs ONLY in Japan!!! The Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) is a popular tourist attraction with a kind of onsen baths not for bathing but for viewing. Witness the unique and colourful onsen like in no other place!

Hell Tour (地獄めぐり)

Beppu Onsen is one of the most popular Onsen resorts in Japan, which is located in Oita Prefecture , Kyushu Region . Beppu City is home to over 2,000 hot spring sources, various kinds of Onsen baths and attractions can be enjoyed such as sand bath, steam bath and the most unique one, “Hells”.

There are 7 hot spring ponds in total called “Hells (Jigoku in Japanese)” in Beppu. A journey through those hells is a popular tourist route in this Onsen district, and the tour is called “Jigoku Meguri” (the Hell Tour).

Each hell of Beppu has a unique feature:

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)-with boiling blue water

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)-with hot red water

Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell)-featuring a hot geyser that reaches up to 30 meters

Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell)-with hot white water surrounded by a Japanese garden

Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Monk’s Head Hell)-with boiling mud

Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell)-with a large number of crocodiles

Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell)-with various hot spring pond and a demon statue

Onsen is not only soaking up and relaxing our bodies, but can be also an unique attractions like the Hells in Beppu! After surviving from the scary hell tour, you should definitely treat yourself with ”Jigokumushi Purin”. It’s a sweet custard pudding made by the natural steam of Beppu hot spring sold at several hells.

-Beppu Hell Tour (Jigoku Meguri)

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ncGeicZ8eYc2oS5AA

Access: The 7 hells can be accessed from JR Beppu station by bus which takes around 15 mins ride and get off at Kannawa stop. (Bus number: 2,5,9,24,41)

Hours: 8:00 to 17:00

Fee: 400 yen per hell OR 2,000 yen for all (available for 2 days)

Official website:  http://www.beppu-jigoku.com/

Thank you for reading! For more information about Oita and Kyushu resgion, please check out these article, too!

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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Discovering Beppu's Hell Tour: 10 Hotels and Ryokans near Beppu Onsen

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Beppu Onsen in Oita Prefecture is a fascinating place where you can witness the enigmatic powers of the earth. The Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) offers visitors a chance to explore several sites where smoke and boiling water constantly erupt. To make the most of your visit and experience all the "hells," we recommend staying at an inn with easy access to the locations. In this article, we will introduce some of the best hotels near "Jigoku Meguri" that guarantee a comfortable and memorable stay.

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What is Beppu's Hell Tour Jigoku Meguri?

For centuries, Japanese people have referred to geothermal areas such as active volcanoes and hot spring resorts as "jigoku" or hells, due to the hot steam and boiling water that spew out, creating a sense of danger. A tour that covers several of these hells is called "jigoku meguri" or "hell tour."

Beppu's Jigoku Meguri is a popular tourist spot where visitors can observe the source of hot spring water with temperatures as high as 100°C. The fumaroles, hot mud, and boiling water that erupt were already documented in a book written 1,000 years ago. Beppu Onsen has seven hells, including Umi Jigoku, with its cobalt-blue water resulting from iron sulfate, Chinoike Jigoku, where red-hot mud erupts from the strata, and Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, where gray-hot mud boils. All these hells vary in color and appearance, and the powerful eruptions of boiling water will make you feel that the earth is alive.

10 Hotels and Ryokan Near Beppu Onsen

1. suginoi hotel.

Suginoi Hotel is a splendid resort hotel that boasts not only regular hot springs but also outdoor hot springs that you can enjoy like a swimming pool. Besides, the hotel offers an array of activities that make it an excellent destination for families and friends to have a great time together.

On the hotel's top floor, you'll find a large public bath with a spectacular view of the city from approximately 250 meters above sea level. You can savor the unique view of Beppu Bay and steam rising from the Kannawa hot spring resort area while enjoying a relaxing soak, which is exclusive to Beppu.

The Aqua Garden is an outdoor hot spring bath that allows you to enter wearing a bathing suit. You can immerse yourself in the dynamic fountain show or indulge in the therapy using hot spring mud. This new way of enjoying hot springs is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. The hotel also has an entertainment facility that has something for everyone, from bowling alleys and karaoke to darts and a dedicated play area for small children.

For food lovers, the restaurant TERRACE & DINING SORA serves a buffet of Western cuisine using locally sourced ingredients from Oita and Kyushu. The must-try dish is the roast beef cooked right in front of you. The menu is diverse and includes Japanese dishes like sushi and sashimi, Chinese cuisine, and much more.

2. ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

Managed by the InterContinental Hotels Group, this 89-room resort is a world-class hotel that exudes the authentic atmosphere of Oita, not only through its hot springs, but also through its amenities such as yukata (Japanese bathrobe), geta (Japanese wooden clogs), and bamboo basket bags, a specialty of Beppu. The infinity pool offers a stylish view of Beppu cityscape and Beppu Bay.

The rooms are decorated with a Japanese essence that creates a relaxing atmosphere. The "Classic" type rooms are specially decorated with exquisite traditional crafts such as bamboo and “kumiko” woodwork.

The open-air bath, made of Beppu stone, is a natural wonder. The indoor baths offer two types of hot springs that alternate daily, one made of “hinoki” cypress and the other of stone. With Beppu Bay stretching out before you, immerse yourself in the hot spring baths while enjoying the sunrise. For a more rejuvenating experience, indulge yourself in "HARNN," the luxury spa brand from Thailand, and receive a wonderful treatment that uses pure oils with a refined aroma.

3. Kannawaen

With a noh theater and a thatched tea house on its premises, along with a small waterfall flowing through its garden, Kannawaen offers a uniquely Japanese experience. You can immerse yourself in Japanese culture, history, and natural beauty.

At Restaurant Yui, you can savor delicately prepared seasonal ingredients in “kaiseki” multi-course Japanese cuisine. Alternatively, you can head to Restaurant Kaede, where top chefs grill the finest Kyushu black Japanese beef, fresh spear squid landed in Nagasaki, and organic ingredients on a “teppan” iron plate.

One of the inn's highlights is that all rooms have natural hot spring baths with water flowing directly from the source, without any artificial heating or reprocessing. Be sure to visit the large bath and try the famous steaming bath of Kannawa. You'll love the mist of hot spring water created by the fumaroles that envelops you.

The rooms are decorated in a Japanese style with tatami mats, and the beds have the highest quality mattresses made by Simmons, ensuring you have a relaxing stay and can unwind after a long journey. Even in rooms with an open-air bath, hot spring water is used so you can enjoy the luxury of a hot spring bath in your private space.

4. AMANE RESORT GAHAMA

AMANE RESORT GAHAMA offers guests full-room open-air hot spring baths on an approximately 11,000 m2 property, featuring a blend of Japanese and Western-style buildings. The Western-style building was once the villa of a wealthy family in the early 20th century, and while the entire inn is modern in design, you can still feel the echoes of the past, such as the use of the large bath in the Western-style building as a gallery.

With 31 rooms in 7 types, each with a hot spring view bath featuring free-flowing hot spring water, there are various types to choose from, including maisonettes and villas. Located in a forest overlooking a seaside park, you can enjoy the hot spring in a peaceful and secluded environment.

While there are Japanese and Western restaurants available on-site, it is recommended to visit the Japanese restaurant "BAN-YA" to savor the local flavor. Their blowfish is cooked so thinly that you can see the pattern on the plate and has a very elastic texture, making it a must-try dish.

5. In Bloom Beppu

In Bloom Beppu is a guesthouse that has been transformed from an old private house. Its traditional Japanese architecture is an exquisite work of art, and it offers visitors a chance to appreciate the intricate decorations in each of the rooms. Many tourists come to Japan to stay at this inn, and the friendly owner is always willing to answer their requests and questions in detail.

Guests will sleep on comfortable futon bedding laid out on tatami mats in their rooms. The private rooms are steeped in history and are adorned with beautiful window lattice decorations, wooden chests of drawers, and alcove ornaments. The shared kitchen and shower rooms are modern, user-friendly, and well-equipped with a variety of amenities.

Located just a 5-minute walk from JR Beppu Station, the inn is conveniently situated, and there are several excellent restaurants in the surrounding area. Moreover, we recommend a few partner restaurants for breakfast, dinner, and hot spring baths. Make sure you don't miss out on the SENPO MAP, a handmade neighborhood map provided by the inn that features local restaurants and fascinating spots within a 1,000-step radius.

6. Beppu Nagomitsuki

Beppu Nagomitsuki is a charming Japanese-style inn with 12 rooms, each boasting a semi-open-air hot spring bath. Guests can indulge in a soothing hot spring bath at any time of day.

The rooms have a modern Japanese design, with a comfortable bed available for those who prefer it to futon. Decorated with traditional Japanese elements such as tatami mats, sliding screens, and “shoji” paper screens, the rooms provide a relaxing atmosphere for adult guests. After a relaxing soak, guests can don a complimentary “yukata” robe and explore the serene Japanese garden within the inn's grounds. The garden's beauty changes with the seasons, offering a delightful sight throughout the year.

At dinnertime, guests can savor a stunning kaiseki meal made with locally-sourced premium ingredients such as Seki mackerel and globefish from Kanmon Strait. For those looking to indulge, the juicy and tender Bungo Beef, Oita's signature brand beef, is available as “shabu shabu” hotpot or steak. An extensive selection of locally brewed sake is also on offer, so be sure to ask the staff for a recommendation to complement your meal.

In the morning, a delightful Japanese breakfast is served, complete with a small pot of white rice. It's a healthy and tasty way to start the day.

7. Toji Stay Hiromiya

Toji Stay Hiromiya is a great option for those who wish to have a long-term stay or want to experience living like a local during their travels. The guesthouse offers both Japanese and English support, and was originally a family-run inn established in 1960 in Kannawa, Beppu City. It was reopened in 2019 with the help of local residents, and now serves as both a tourist information center and a gathering spot for the locals.

The Japanese-style rooms are simple yet cozy, furnished with comfortable futon bedding. The rooms are equipped with all necessary facilities such as air conditioning and washing machines, making them ideal for extended stays at an affordable price while enjoying the Kannawa hot spring resort area for meals and hot springs.

The location is also convenient for exploring the Jigoku Meguri Hell Tour, allowing visitors to stroll around the town. If you're looking for a Kannawa Onsen specialty meal, Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa, just a 3-minute walk from the inn, is the perfect spot. You can purchase a set of vegetables, meat, seafood, and other ingredients and cook them in a pot that uses 100% geothermal energy hot spring steam. There's even a footbath located next to the store for some added relaxation.

8. Iyashi no Yado Iroha

If you are looking for an overnight stay with privacy and comfort, Iyashi-no-yado Iroha is the perfect choice. With no meals included, guests can enjoy staying in their own detached private rooms, each equipped with either an indoor hot spring bath or a semi-open-air bath, allowing you to indulge in high-quality hot spring water at any time. Plus, the inn also features separate open-air baths for both men and women.

There are 15 guest rooms available, all furnished in either Western or Japanese-Western style. The standard rooms, with a size of 16m², come with two double beds and a small table in a tatami room space. The larger Japanese/Western style rooms, measuring 40m², offer two double beds, tatami space, and a microwave for guests who wish to cook simple meals.

As for meals, you can have sushi delivered to your room, or enjoy take-out food from nearby local eateries. Recommended local delicacies include sushi made from fresh fish caught in the Bungo Channel and Oita's specialty, “toriten” chicken tempura. Toriten is a soul food of Oita, consisting of chicken tempura served with soy sauce and citrus juice for a perfect blend of flavors. This inn is perfect for those who want to enjoy exploring the hot spring resort town at their own leisure without the worry of a set meal schedule.

9. Bettei Haruki

This charming inn only accommodates six guests per day. Situated on the banks of the Haruki River, guests can enjoy the serene sound of the nearby river and gorgeous views of the Japanese garden from their windows. The rooms are designed by an architect and feature a tasteful and luxurious Japanese-style décor, with some offering open-air baths as well.

The private open-air baths at the inn are a must-try. With a stylish design resembling a luxurious Asian resort, you can unwind in the hot spring and relax at the bathhouse afterward. Sip on herb tea or fruit water while admiring the peaceful Japanese garden view from the window.

You can savor creative Japanese dishes featuring seasonal ingredients from Oita, such as the premium "Seki horse mackerel and mackerel" brand of fish raised in the Bungo Channel and Oita's succulent black Japanese beef, both presented in a visually appealing manner. Both breakfast and dinner are served in the comfort of your own room, giving you the chance to enjoy private time during your stay.

10. Beppu Daiiti Hotel

This hotel is conveniently located just a minute's walk from Beppu Station and Bus Terminal, making it an ideal base for exploring Oita. The hotel's front desk concierge offers 24-hour multilingual service to assist you with any needs.

You'll find regular twin and single rooms, as well as spacious rooms that are perfect for family trips. It's also a great option for group travel.

Start your day off with a delicious homemade breakfast featuring Oita Prefecture's local cuisine for only 900 yen. Choose from a variety of Japanese and Western dishes.

Within walking distance of the hotel, you'll find many communal bathhouses where you can enjoy hot springs for around 100 yen. These public bathhouses usually don't offer any amenities except for a bath and faucet, so make sure to bring your own towels and soap. However, at this hotel, you can rent an onsen set, including shampoo, yukata, and “geta” Japanese clogs, free of charge. This way, you can visit the hot springs in a comfortable yukata provided by the hotel.

Whether you're seeking a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse with local flair, there's an accommodation for everyone around Oita Prefecture’s Jigoku Hells. Take your pick based on your preferences and budget. Moreover, with numerous hot springs within the resort area, you can embark on a day trip and experience the various hot springs while exploring the town. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs of Beppu!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Tour of Beppu Hell)

*Image is for illustration purposes.

Sightseeing spots around Beppu AREA INFO

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Beppu Jigoku Meguri (hell tour)

Sendai & Matsushima

View scenic routes that include this spot

More Information about Beppu Jigoku Meguri (hell tour)

Street address.

• Touring from Umi Jigoku ■Nearest station: Beppu Station ■Bus ・West Exit, JR Beppu Station→About 20 minutes by Kamenoi Bus No.2, 5, 9, 24, or 41 for Kannawa. Bus stop: Umi Jigoku mae or Kannawa, 1 minute by foot. To go to Chinoike jigoku from Kannawa, take the No. 16 bus and get off at Chinoike Jigoku mae bus stop
• Touring from Chinoike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku ■Train Beppu→Kamegawa Station (about 5 min.) Nearest station is Kamegawa Station. Tatsumaki Jigoku is about 25 minutes on foot. ■Bus Take Kamenoi Bus No. 26 for Kannawa from Kamegawa Station, and get off at Chinoike Jigoku bus stop. (about 7 minutes,)

Opening Hours

Best season.

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THE ABDITORY

ARTIFACT X VIEW

HISTORIC BEAUTY OF ARTS AND BUILDINGS

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WATER TAXI CRUISE

FEEL THE EARTH

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StarsInsider

Beppu: the Japanese city built over hell itself!

Posted: 26 March 2024 | Last updated: 26 March 2024

Here's an unusual trip: a Japanese city that looks like it was built right above hell itself! Here visitors can see hot steam rising out of the soil and waters all over the town. But don't worry, lots of people come to Beppu to relax! Check out the gallery and see one of the most unique destinations in the world!

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Takasakiyama

Hells of Beppu

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Hot springs

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Right on top of hell?

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Hell: Umi Jigoku

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Hell: Tatsumaki Jigoku

Tatsumaki Jigoku is considered the jewel in Beppu's crown.

In English, the name means 'tornado hell,' as it is one of the only geysers in Beppu.

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Hell: Chinoike Jigoku

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Discovering Beppu

If you visit Beppu you can see the hot springs doing the  Jigoku Meguri , a complete tour of the city's springs. Bon voyage!

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