Beppu Jigoku
Explore Beppu's 'Seven Hells,' a surreal landscape of steaming geothermal pools with vibrant colors and unique culinary experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Beppu Jigoku
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Beppu's 'Seven Hells,' a surreal landscape of steaming geothermal pools with vibrant colors and unique culinary experiences.
"A must-visit gem in Beppu! This spot is absolutely beautiful and worth adding to your itinerary."
🎟️ Combo Pass Value
Consider the combo pass for all 7 hells; it's often more economical than individual tickets.
♨️ Footbath Relaxation
Many hells offer footbaths. Perfect for soothing tired feet after exploring!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)
Beppu
A stunning cobalt-blue geothermal pool, shrouded in mystical steam. A true visual spectacle.
Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)
Beppu
Witness the striking, iron-rich red waters of this unique 'hell,' a vibrant contrast to the blue.
Jigokumushikobo Kannawa (Hell Steaming Kitchen)
Kannawa
Experience traditional 'hell-steaming' where food is cooked by natural geothermal steam.
Oniishibozu Jigoku (Shaven Monk's Head Hell)
Beppu
Marvel at the bubbling grey mud pools that resemble the shaved heads of monks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Hells
Navigating the Seven Hells
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Pass Value
Consider the combo pass for all 7 hells; it's often more economical than individual tickets.
♨️ Footbath Relaxation
Many hells offer footbaths. Perfect for soothing tired feet after exploring!
🍳 Try Steam-Cooked Food
Don't miss 'Jigoku Mushi' – food cooked by natural steam. A unique culinary experience!
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Buses from Beppu Station (like #41) are a convenient way to reach the hells.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Pass Value
Consider the combo pass for all 7 hells; it's often more economical than individual tickets.
♨️ Footbath Relaxation
Many hells offer footbaths. Perfect for soothing tired feet after exploring!
🍳 Try Steam-Cooked Food
Don't miss 'Jigoku Mushi' – food cooked by natural steam. A unique culinary experience!
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Buses from Beppu Station (like #41) are a convenient way to reach the hells.
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow at least 2-3 hours to see all 7 hells, or more if you plan to eat or relax.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique geothermal wonders of Beppu Jigoku, praising the vibrant colors of the hot springs and the fascinating 'hell-steaming' culinary experience. While some find the tour a bit short or the food subtly flavored, the overall impression is one of awe and a must-see natural spectacle in Japan.
"A short bus ride (20 mins, bus 41) from Beppu Station is Umi Jigoku hot springs. Too hot to swim and they describe it as “hell” as resembling what hell might be like. Lots of tourists and a good gift shop. Walk up to the Shrine and enjoy the green environment and ponds with water lillies."
Paul Southgate
"The colour is very pretty! Has a large selection on their omiyage (gifts). I recommend going to this place.
You get to see water lily garden, and the red hell. There's also greenhouse, but it's just very small section."
Jessica Tjia
"🔥💧 Today I explored the famous 7 Hells of Beppu – each hot spring with its own unique color, steam, and character. From the bubbling blue sea hell to the steaming mud hell, it truly felt like stepping into another world. An unforgettable onsen adventure in Japan! 🇯🇵♨️"
Baby Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach the Beppu Hells (Jigoku) from Beppu Station is by bus. Buses like the #41 are frequently mentioned as a direct route, taking approximately 20 minutes.
Some visitors also mention using bus #5.While some hells are clustered together, walking between all seven can be quite a distance. Many visitors opt for bus transportation or a combination of walking and short bus rides to cover the entire 'Jigoku Meguri' tour efficiently.
Yes, public buses are a popular and effective way to navigate between the different Beppu Hells. Having a bus map or using a navigation app can be helpful for planning your route.
Bus routes like #41 and #5 from Beppu Station are frequently recommended for accessing the Beppu Hells. It's advisable to check local bus schedules upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
The bus ride from Beppu Station to the Beppu Hells typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific hell you are visiting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets for each individual hell, or opt for a combined pass that covers all seven. The combined pass is generally more economical if you plan to visit most, if not all, of the hells.
One review mentioned a ticket price of ¥500 for a specific hell.Yes, a combined ticket or 'full-pass' is available for all seven of the Beppu Hells, offering a discounted rate compared to buying individual entry tickets.
While some sources mention purchasing tickets at each venue, platforms like Klook may offer online booking for Beppu Hells tickets, potentially with discounts.
Some online ticket providers, like Klook, may suggest printing tickets, but smartphone QR codes are often accepted as well. It's best to check the specific instructions when booking.
The Beppu Hells generally operate from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the exact hours for each specific hell you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To see all seven Beppu Hells, most visitors allocate between 2 to 4 hours. This allows time for travel between them, viewing each hell, and potentially enjoying a footbath or snack.
The most frequently highlighted 'hells' include Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) for its striking blue color, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) for its red hue, and Oniishibozu Jigoku (Shaven Monk's Head Hell) for its bubbling mud.
No, the Beppu Hells are far too hot for swimming. Their temperatures can reach up to 90 degrees Celsius (194 degrees Fahrenheit), hence the name 'hells.'
'Jigoku Mushi' refers to food cooked using the natural steam from the geothermal hot springs. You can experience this unique cooking method at places like Jigokumushikobo Kannawa.
Yes, most of the Beppu Hells have gift shops selling local souvenirs and snacks. Some also feature cafes or restaurants, and many offer relaxing footbaths.
🍽️ 🍳 Food & Dining
The most unique food experience is 'Jigoku Mushi,' where ingredients like vegetables, seafood, and meats are steamed using the natural geothermal heat.
Some restaurants also offer local specialties.Jigokumushikobo Kannawa is a well-known spot for experiencing Jigoku Mushi. You can often order from a vending machine and watch your food being cooked by the natural steam.
The cost of Jigoku Mushi can vary, but it's often considered a unique and relatively affordable experience. Some visitors suggest ordering a small set just for the experience, as the flavors might be subtle.
Yes, typically a variety of vegetables are available for Jigoku Mushi, making it possible for vegetarians to enjoy this unique cooking method.
Okamotoya is a restaurant in Beppu known for its 'onsen steamed pudding,' a dessert cooked using the geothermal heat, offering a unique local delicacy.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant colors of Umi Jigoku (blue) and Chinoike Jigoku (red) are highly photogenic. The steam rising from the pools also creates dramatic and atmospheric shots.
The steam can sometimes obscure views, but it also adds to the mystical atmosphere. Try to find angles where the steam enhances the scene rather than blocking it. Early morning or late afternoon light can also be beautiful.
Generally, photography is allowed at the Beppu Hells for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting as the sun begins to set, creating a warm glow on the steam and water. Early mornings can also be good for capturing the mist rising in cooler air.
Yes, photographing the unique process of Jigoku Mushi cooking is encouraged. It's a fascinating visual to capture the food being prepared by natural steam.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seven Hells of Beppu: A Geothermal Spectacle
Visitors can purchase a combined ticket to visit all seven hells, which is generally more economical than buying individual entry. The hells are spread across a few locations, and while some are close enough to walk between, utilizing local buses is often recommended for efficiency. The journey through these geothermal marvels offers a glimpse into the powerful volcanic forces beneath Japan's surface.
Experiencing 'Jigoku Mushi': Beppu's Unique Culinary Tradition
While the food might be described as subtly flavored, the experience of watching your meal being prepared by natural steam is a highlight for many. It's a fascinating way to connect with the region's geothermal resources and enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. Some visitors recommend trying a small set to savor the experience without overcommitting to a full meal.
Navigating Beppu Jigoku: Practical Tips for Visitors
Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the hot footbaths offered at several of the hells; they are a welcome respite for tired feet. The operating hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's wise to confirm these upon arrival. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak seasons, and consider visiting in the late afternoon to potentially avoid the largest groups and enjoy softer lighting for photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit