Beppu Jigoku Meguri
1 / 10

Beppu Jigoku Meguri

4.2
·9k reviews·Beppu, Japan

Witness the raw power of nature at Beppu's 'Hell Tour,' featuring seven uniquely colored and steaming geothermal hot springs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Beppu Jigoku Meguri

Beppu Jigoku Meguri

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the raw power of nature at Beppu's 'Hell Tour,' featuring seven uniquely colored and steaming geothermal hot springs.

4.2
(9k reviews)

"A total unexpected and super nice experience in Beppu, very nice and interesting place."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Buying a combined ticket for all 7 'hells' is often more economical than paying individually.

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the different 'hells', so comfy footwear is a must.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)

Main cluster

A stunning cobalt-blue hot spring that resembles the sea, offering a visually captivating experience.

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)

Separate location

Famous for its striking crimson-red waters, this 'hell' is a unique and fiery spectacle.

Jigokumushikobo Kannawa

Jigokumushikobo Kannawa

Kannawa district

Experience 'hell-steaming' where food is cooked using natural geothermal steam – a culinary adventure!

Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell)

Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell)

Main cluster

Home to numerous crocodiles, this 'hell' offers a fascinating, albeit slightly eerie, display.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Hells

Beppu Jigoku Meguri can get crowded, especially with tour groups. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the peak rush and enjoy the unique 'hells' more peacefully. Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to see all seven to save time and money.

Getting Around Beppu's Hells

While some of the 'hells' are clustered, others require a short bus ride or a walk. Many visitors opt for a bus pass or taxi to navigate between the different sites efficiently. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking to explore these geothermal wonders.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Destination of the Week: Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 1. Begin your journey in Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, easily reached from Oita Airport. Local buses and taxis make it simple to explore every onsen district. 2. Witness the otherworldly Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) - from the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku to the crimson Chinoike Jigoku and the bubbling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku. These geothermal wond...
@skyscanner
84.2K likes • 3.2M views

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Buying a combined ticket for all 7 'hells' is often more economical than paying individually. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the different 'hells', so comfy footwear is a must. TikTok

JAPAN KYUSHU TRIP #PR#TikTok#connectbytourism #大観峰 #大山ダム 進撃の巨人ミュージアム #別府地獄めぐり #熊本城 #ハウステンボス #daikanbo #oyamadam #attackontitanmusiam #beppujigokumeguri #kumamotocastle #HuisTenBosch
@satoyu727
40.2K likes • 977.2K views
Beppu “Jigoku Meguri” Hells Tour : Kamado Jigoku or The “cooking pot hell” #beppu #jigokumeguri #kamadojigoku #別府 #地獄めぐり #かまど地獄
___franky10
48 likes • 837 views

🚌 Utilize Local Buses

Buses are a convenient way to travel between the more spread-out 'hells'. TikTok

♨️ Footbaths Available

While you can't bathe in the 'hells', some locations offer relaxing hot footbaths. Reddit

บ่อน้ำพุร้อน Jigoku Meguri เป็นอีกสถานที่เที่ยว ที่แนะนำเลยค่ะ บ่อแต่ละบ่อมีสีตามแร่ธาตุในบ่อนั้นๆ สวยดีค่ะ . . #jigokumeguri #beppu #Oita #fukuoka #japan #gooddayinjapan
wi.wattanakul
19 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Buying a combined ticket for all 7 'hells' is often more economical than paying individually. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between the different 'hells', so comfy footwear is a must. TikTok

🚌 Utilize Local Buses

Buses are a convenient way to travel between the more spread-out 'hells'. TikTok

♨️ Footbaths Available

While you can't bathe in the 'hells', some locations offer relaxing hot footbaths. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

Each 'hell' has a unique color and feature; bring your camera for stunning photos! Instagram

🍳 Try Steamed Cuisine

Experience unique dishes cooked using natural geothermal steam at Jigokumushikobo Kannawa. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Beppu Jigoku Meguri to be a unique and fascinating experience, highlighting the distinct visual appeal of each 'hell.' While some note the crowds, the opportunity to witness raw geothermal power and try 'hell-steamed' cuisine is widely appreciated. It's considered a worthwhile stop for those exploring Kyushu.

"There are 7 hells in total - 5 clustered together and 2 a bit farther away. Each has its own unique character and a separate entrance. At the main hell you can either buy a ticket for all 7, a ticket for the 5 adjacent ones, or pay individually. We chose the third option. After nearly an hour at the first/main hell, the kids picked the alligator hell next. Visiting 2 hells felt more than enough for us 🤷‍♂️."

Boaz Gurwin

"This was a total unexpected and super nice experience in Beppu. We did a road trip thru Kyushu and had a brief stop in Beppu and visit the seven hills, very nice and interesting place. If have time it’s interesting to visit"

Jorge B.

"Massive tourist area with endless tour buses bringing Chinese Korean Thais and Japanese in bulk loads. I've visited just the highlight and I have to say, it was really beautiful and worth the trip if you are in Beppu. Especially the old people seem to love this place."

Hwon

What People Like

Unique geothermal landscapes
Vibrant hot spring colors
'Hell-steamed' cuisine experience

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Not for bathing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Oita Airport, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach Beppu city. Once in Beppu, local buses and taxis are readily available to take you to the various 'hell' sites. TikTok

The 'hells' are spread out, with five clustered together and two a bit further. Local buses are a common and convenient option, and some visitors opt for a bus pass. Taxis are also available. TikTokReddit

While five of the 'hells' are grouped closely and walkable, the other two might require a short bus ride or a longer walk. Comfortable shoes are essential. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at the 'hell' sites, and in some cases, it's free of charge. Reddit

Visiting all seven 'hells' typically takes several hours. Some visitors suggest allocating at least 3-4 hours to see them all comfortably, depending on your pace and transportation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased for individual 'hells' or as a combined ticket for all seven. A combined ticket for all seven typically costs around 2400 Yen. Reddit

Yes, you can choose to pay individually for each 'hell' you wish to visit, or purchase a ticket for the five adjacent ones if you don't plan to see all seven. Reddit

While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, purchasing the combined ticket is the most cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple 'hells'. Reddit

Some booking platforms may suggest printing tickets, but QR code smartphone tickets are generally accepted. It's always best to check the specific requirements when booking. Reddit

The 'hells' are typically open from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's advisable to check the specific hours for each 'hell' you plan to visit. Instagram

🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience

No, the 'hells' are for observation only as the water is extremely hot (around 100°C). However, some locations offer footbaths for a relaxing experience. Reddit

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) with its blue waters and Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) with its red waters are visually striking. Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell) and Jigokumushikobo Kannawa for steamed food are also highly recommended. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, children often enjoy the unique sights like the crocodiles and the visually distinct hot springs. The steamed food experience can also be fun for families. TikTok

Yes, Jigokumushikobo Kannawa offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy food cooked using natural geothermal steam. TikTok+1

'Hell-steaming' is a traditional cooking method in Beppu where food is cooked using the natural steam from geothermal hot springs. It's a unique culinary experience. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant colors of Umi Jigoku (blue) and Chinoike Jigoku (red) are incredibly photogenic. The steam rising from the pools also creates dramatic photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

The natural lighting and steam can sometimes be challenging, but the unique colors and geological features make for stunning shots. Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signs. Avoid using flash directly at the hot springs if it might disturb wildlife or other guests. TikTok

A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities would be beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views of the hot springs and their surroundings. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in tourist areas to ensure safety and respect for other visitors. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Beppu Jigoku Meguri offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The visually striking 'hells' with their vibrant colors and unusual formations, like the bubbling mud pools and the crocodile enclosures at Oniyama Jigoku, are sure to capture children's imaginations. TikTok The concept of 'hell' can be presented in a fun, adventurous way. TikTok

Consider visiting Jigokumushikobo Kannawa for a hands-on culinary experience where kids can see food being cooked by natural steam. TikTok This interactive element adds an extra layer of excitement. While the hot springs themselves are not for bathing, some locations offer footbaths, which can be a relaxing and fun activity for the whole family. Reddit Remember to keep a close eye on children, as the areas are geothermal and can be hazardous if not supervised.

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Beppu Jigoku Meguri can be explored affordably. Opting for a combined ticket for all seven 'hells' is generally more economical than paying for each individually. Reddit Utilize the local bus system for transportation between sites, as it's significantly cheaper than taxis. TikTok Pack your own snacks and water to save on purchasing them at tourist spots. TikTok

While some 'hells' have small entrance fees, the overall experience offers great value for the unique sights and cultural insights. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Beppu Jigoku Meguri is a photographer's dream with its otherworldly landscapes and vibrant colors. The contrasting blues of Umi Jigoku and the fiery reds of Chinoike Jigoku offer incredible opportunities for dramatic shots. Instagram+1 The steam rising from the geothermal pools adds an atmospheric element, perfect for capturing unique textures and moods. TikTok

Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the best light. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer lighting and fewer crowds, allowing for more creative freedom. TikTok Don't forget to capture the details, such as the bubbling mud pools or the unique rock formations, which add depth to your photographic narrative. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Seven Hells (Jigoku Meguri)

The Beppu Jigoku Meguri, or 'Hell Tour,' is a collection of seven distinct geothermal hot springs, each with its own unique characteristics and visual appeal. These 'hells' are not for bathing due to their extreme temperatures, often reaching around 90-100°C, but are purely for observation and appreciation of nature's raw power. InstagramReddit

Each of the seven 'hells' offers a different spectacle. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) captivates with its vibrant cobalt-blue waters, reminiscent of the ocean. Instagram Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) is famous for its striking, blood-red hue, a result of iron content in the water. TikTok Oniishibozu Jigoku (Shaven Monk's Head Hell) features bubbling grey mud pools that resemble the shaved heads of monks, while Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell) houses a large population of crocodiles. Instagram Other notable 'hells' include Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell), Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell), and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell), which features a geyser. Instagram

Many visitors find purchasing a combined ticket for all seven 'hells' to be the most convenient and cost-effective option. Reddit The 'hells' are spread out, with five clustered together in the Kannawa area and two others requiring a short bus ride or a longer walk. Reddit This makes planning your route and transportation essential for a smooth visit. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a considerable amount of walking to explore these natural wonders. TikTok

The Culinary Delights of 'Hell-Steaming'

Beppu is not only famous for its hot springs but also for a unique culinary tradition known as 'Jigoku Mushi' or 'hell-steaming.' This method utilizes the natural geothermal steam rising from the earth to cook food, offering a distinct and healthy way to prepare local ingredients. TikTok+1

The most popular spot for this experience is Jigokumushikobo Kannawa. Here, visitors can select fresh ingredients like vegetables, seafood, and meats, which are then placed in special steamers and cooked using the powerful, mineral-rich steam. TikTok+1 The process imparts a unique flavor and tender texture to the food, making it a must-try for any foodie visiting Beppu. TikTok

This culinary practice is deeply rooted in Beppu's geothermal activity and showcases a sustainable and traditional way of cooking. It's a fascinating glimpse into how locals have harnessed the power of the earth for centuries, not just for bathing but also for sustenance. TikTok Many travelers rave about the freshness and unique taste of the 'hell-steamed' dishes, making it a highlight of their Beppu experience. TikTok

Navigating Beppu: Transportation and Logistics

Getting around Beppu and to the Beppu Jigoku Meguri is generally straightforward, with several transportation options available. For those arriving from Oita Airport, buses and taxis are the primary modes of transport to Beppu city. TikTok Once in Beppu, local buses are a very convenient and cost-effective way to reach the various 'hell' sites. TikTok Many visitors find that a bus pass can be beneficial if they plan to visit multiple attractions. TikTok

While five of the 'hells' are clustered together in the Kannawa district, making them walkable, the other two are a bit more spread out. Reddit This means that some walking will be involved, so wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended. TikTok Taxis are also readily available for those who prefer a more direct and private mode of transport, though they can be more expensive. TikTok

For those who enjoy exploring at their own pace, renting a car can be an option, and parking is available at the 'hell' sites, sometimes even free of charge. Reddit Planning your route in advance, especially if you intend to visit all seven 'hells,' will help maximize your time and ensure you don't miss any of the unique geothermal wonders. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2