Features of Beppu Onsen
Types and Quality of Hot Springs
“Beppu Onsen” is one of Japan’s leading hot spring areas, boasting ten different types of hot spring qualities. It has the largest volume of hot water and the most number of hot spring sources in Japan, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of hot spring experiences.
Notable Types of Springs:
- Carbon dioxide springs
- Hydrogen carbonate springs
- Chloride springs
- Sulfate springs
- Iron-containing springs
Expected Benefits:
- Rheumatism
- Skin diseases
- Neuralgia
Beppu Hatto
Within “Beppu City,” there are eight hot spring areas collectively known as “Beppu Hatto.” Each has its own unique characteristics, making it enjoyable to tour different hot springs. The eight hot springs are: “Beppu Onsen,” “Hamawaki Onsen,” “Kamegawa Onsen,” “Kannawa Onsen,” “Kankaiji Onsen,” “Horita Onsen,” “Shibaseki Onsen,” and “Myoban Onsen.”
“Jigoku Meguri” (Hell Tour)
One of the attractions of “Beppu Onsen” is the “Jigoku Meguri” (Hell Tour), where you can witness seven natural geothermal phenomena. Especially notable are “Umi Jigoku” (Sea Hell) and “Chinoike Jigoku” (Blood Pond Hell). These natural geysers and hot springs are unique tourist spots.
- Umi Jigoku: A beautiful cobalt blue pond with a high temperature of 98°C
- Chinoike Jigoku: Known for its striking red color and being Japan’s oldest natural hell
How to Enjoy Beppu Onsen
Hot Spring Hopping
You can enjoy the various hot springs of “Beppu Hatto.” There are many communal hot springs and foot baths, making it affordable to enjoy the hot springs. Some communal hot springs, such as “Takegawara Onsen” with over 100 years of history and “Furo-sen,” are particularly noteworthy. Foot baths are free and can be easily accessed between sightseeing activities.
“Jigoku Mushi” Cooking
The local specialty of “Beppu” is “Jigoku Mushi” cooking, which utilizes the heat of the hot springs. You can enjoy healthy and delicious dishes made with local ingredients. Especially around “Kannawa Onsen,” there are “Jigoku Mushi” workshops where you can steam your own food. The dishes, made with fresh vegetables and local seafood, maximize the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Bamboo Craft Experience
You can experience the traditional craft of bamboo weaving unique to “Beppu.” It is possible to create your own items, perfect as souvenirs. At the “Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center,” you can learn about the history and techniques of bamboo weaving, and with a reservation, you can try making bamboo crafts yourself. Beautiful bamboo products make for excellent souvenirs.
Access and Accommodation Information for Beppu Onsen
Access
From Oita Airport to “Beppu Onsen,” it takes about 40 minutes by airport express bus. It is also easily accessible from JR Beppu Station, with various transportation options available. There are direct buses and ferries from Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
Accommodation
“Beppu Onsen” offers a wide range of accommodations. You can choose from hotels and resorts with hot springs to retro-style inns, depending on your budget and preferences. Highly rated hotels like “Suginoi Hotel” and “GAHAMA terrace” offer luxurious facilities and services.
- “Suginoi Hotel”: Popular with families, it features expansive open-air baths and amusement facilities.
- “GAHAMA terrace”: With a luxurious atmosphere, it is ideal for couples and adult travelers.
For more information, please refer to the official Beppu Onsen website: https://beppu-tourism.com/
