Gaze at the menacing steam and bubbling mud pits around these otherworldly hot springs, where you’ll find crocodiles, steamed desserts and geyser eruptions.
The Hells of Beppu are a set of eight outdoor hot springs in picturesque natural surroundings. Spread out across the Shibaseki and Kannawa districts of northern Beppu, these steamy thermal basins are for viewing only. Enjoy desserts prepared using the steam of the hot springs at some of these so-called “hells.”
In the Kannawa zone, find the Umi Jigoku. Admire the light blue glow of the hot water, as you explore the landscape gardens surrounding it. Spot the little orange hot springs and inspect the lotus flowers in the pond.
Head to the nearby Kamado Jigoku for thermal waters amid a traditional Japanese garden. Here, you can immerse your hands and feet in the hot spring and even drink the water and try snacks cooked in it. For unearthly scenery, check out the bubbling mud pits of the Oniishibozu Jigoku, which also has a public bath and a foot bath.
Find some excitement at the Oniyama Jigoku, where crocodiles are bred in and around the hot springs. Bring your family to watch these fearsome creatures jumping and snapping at their food during feeding time.
A little farther north, in the Shibaseki area, lies the Chinoike Jigoku. Snap photos of its extraordinary red and steamy water and browse the souvenirs in the shop. Visit the nearby Tatsumaki Jigoku to see its regular geyser eruptions.
The sites open daily from early morning until late afternoon. Pay a fee for each hot spring or buy a combo ticket that incorporates all of them.
The Hells of Beppu are in the Shibaseki and Kannawa districts in the northwestern outskirts of Beppu. Take a bus from the city center to the Tetsurin stop and walk west for a few minutes to get here. If you choose to drive, note that free parking is available at each hot spring. Explore the region for other highlights, including the Beppuogiyama Golf Club, Kannawajigokuchitai Park and the Hyotan Hot Spring.
