Beppu Onsen Hoyoland Mud Bath
Experience Beppu's unique mineral mud baths in a traditional, no-frills setting. A rare co-ed option for couples seeking an earthy onsen adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more mud
Beppu Onsen Hoyoland Mud Bath
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more mud
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Beppu's unique mineral mud baths in a traditional, no-frills setting. A rare co-ed option for couples seeking an earthy onsen adventure.
"While the mud can be sparse, the unique co-ed mud bath offers a rare and earthy onsen experience."
Scrape for Mud
Don't expect thick mud; you'll need to scoop from the bottom of the pools. :mud:
Jewelry Alert!
Remove all jewelry before entering; the minerals can cause oxidation. :ring:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mineral Mud Baths
Indoor and Outdoor Pools
Experience the unique sensation of mineral-rich mud, said to have healing properties. Scoop from the bottom for a natural skin treatment.
Co-ed Mud Bath Option
Outdoor Mud Onsen
A rare opportunity in Japan to enjoy a hot spring experience with your partner, as the mud provides coverage.
Traditional Onsen Experience
Indoor and Outdoor Baths
Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of Beppu's hot springs in a classic, no-frills setting. Relax and rejuvenate in the mineral waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mud Bath Realities
Value and Maintenance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Scrape for Mud
Don't expect thick mud; you'll need to scoop from the bottom of the pools. :mud:
Jewelry Alert!
Remove all jewelry before entering; the minerals can cause oxidation. :ring:
Co-ed Mud Bath
Enjoy the rare co-ed mud bath experience with your partner. :couplewithheart:
Manage Expectations
The facilities are older; focus on the mud bath experience itself. :construction:
Tips
from all over the internet
Scrape for Mud
Don't expect thick mud; you'll need to scoop from the bottom of the pools. :mud:
Jewelry Alert!
Remove all jewelry before entering; the minerals can cause oxidation. :ring:
Co-ed Mud Bath
Enjoy the rare co-ed mud bath experience with your partner. :couplewithheart:
Manage Expectations
The facilities are older; focus on the mud bath experience itself. :construction:
Watch Your Eyes
Be cautious when washing mud off your face; it can sting your eyes. :eye:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Beppu Onsen Hoyoland offers a unique mud bath experience, with some visitors enjoying the therapeutic qualities and the rare co-ed option. However, many recent reviews point to sparse mud, rundown facilities, and a higher price point compared to other Beppu onsens, leading to disappointment for some.
"I regretted not reading the reviews of this place before visiting. Based on many travel blogs, this place was highly recommended for their mud baths. However, as per most recent reviews, there was hardly any mud in the pools. You have to really scrap the bottom to perhaps get a small handful of mud to apply on your body, which is a far cry from the pictures. They can't even maintain the only defining feature of this onsen.
The place was really rundown and not well maintained. One of the pools were also closed.
For the price is 1500 yen which is at least 2 to 3 times of other onsens such as Hyotan which is only 700 yen.
I really cannot recommend this place."
Wei Gee Ng
"I really enjoyed the mud baths here. My girlfriend wasn't as much of a fan of the mud but I thought it was great to sit in the warm mud baths. I would say to take off any jewelry before going in and make sure you have sufficiently rinsed off because our jewelry oxidized after visiting.
There is also a mixed section in the mud so if you go as a couple you can actually be in the onsen together which is very rare in Japan. If you're shy then the mud covers you anyway."
Tristan LaLiberte
"おぞましい. This is not it. Despite the reviews about how over-hyped and run down this place is, this was on my list of onsen to check out bc of the mud bath. It's not just run down bc the facilities are old and it cannot be helped, this place is decrepit to the point that it's dangerous. Many places to trip or slip, you can't really tell from pictures unless you are there in person. Also, unless you can read kanji, signage in other languages is very poor/nonexistent. If you do not want to enter the coed bath, this could be an issue. A dealbreaker for me was the amount of mosquitoes that started swarming and biting me despite being under the shower. Other cons include the mud bath having very little actual mud, old man at the counter is grumpy to match the vibe of the place. Just know what you are signing up for, and if that's your thing go for it at your own risk."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beppu Onsen Hoyoland is located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture. You can reach Beppu by Shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Fukuoka or Osaka. From Beppu Station, local buses are available to reach the onsen. Taxis are also an option for a more direct route. +1
While specific parking details for Hoyoland aren't widely shared, Beppu city has several public parking lots. If you're driving, look for signs indicating parking areas near the Kannawa district, where Hoyoland is located.
Many visitors use local buses to navigate Beppu's various onsen and attractions. Consider purchasing a Beppu day pass for unlimited bus travel within the city. Taxis are also readily available. +1
Walking from Beppu Station to Hoyoland is not recommended as it's quite a distance. It's best to take a local bus or a taxi to save time and energy. +1
Bus routes serving the Kannawa area, where Hoyoland is situated, are frequent. Look for buses heading towards Kannawa Onsen. It's advisable to check local bus schedules upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Beppu Onsen Hoyoland is approximately 1500 yen. This is considered higher than some other onsens in Beppu, such as Hyotan Onsen which costs around 700 yen.
Hoyoland is generally open daily from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to verify the current operating hours before your visit, as they can sometimes change.
Advance booking is typically not required for general entry to Beppu Onsen Hoyoland. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for private baths, booking might be recommended, especially during peak seasons. +1
While the main entry fee covers access to the mud baths and general onsen facilities, private outdoor mud onsen rooms can be booked separately, often on an hourly basis. +1
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors at Hoyoland is not widely publicized. However, some sources indicate prices for children aged 7-12 and 4-6, suggesting tiered pricing. It's best to inquire directly at the facility for the most accurate details.
🎫 ♨️ Onsen Experience
The mud bath experience at Hoyoland involves scooping mineral-rich mud from the bottom of the pools to apply to your skin. While some find it therapeutic, reviews suggest the mud can be sparse, requiring effort to gather.
Yes, Hoyoland offers a co-ed outdoor mud onsen, which is a rare feature in Japan. This allows couples to enjoy the mud bath experience together, as the mud provides a natural form of coverage.
Yes, Hoyoland offers private outdoor onsen rooms that can be booked by the hour. These provide a more secluded and personalized hot spring experience. +1
You'll typically be provided with a yukata (robe) or swimwear is often allowed in the co-ed areas. For the mud baths, it's recommended to wear something you don't mind getting stained, as the mud can be difficult to wash out.
Historically, many onsens have strict no-tattoo policies. While some places are becoming more lenient, it's advisable to check with Hoyoland directly or cover any visible tattoos discreetly if possible.
📸 📸 Photography & Social Media
Photography and videography rules can vary. While some areas might be fine for quick snaps, it's respectful to avoid intrusive filming, especially in changing areas or private baths. Check for any posted signage regarding photo policies. +1
The outdoor mud baths, especially the co-ed section, can offer unique photo opportunities. The rustic charm of the facilities, though sometimes described as run-down, can also contribute to a certain aesthetic.
Popular hashtags for Beppu and onsen experiences include #BeppuOnsen, #Hoyoland, #MudBath, #JapanOnsen, and #Kyushu. Sharing your experience can inspire others! +2
TikTok creators often showcase the unique mud bath experience, the co-ed option, and the rustic ambiance. Some videos highlight the process of applying mud and the therapeutic benefits. +1
Yes, the distinctive mud baths and the overall Beppu onsen culture make it a popular subject for Instagram Reels, often focusing on visually appealing aspects of the experience. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that some onsens have age restrictions or specific rules for children. For Hoyoland, it's advisable to inquire about any specific policies regarding children in the mud baths or other facilities. The general onsen experience might be more straightforward for younger children, but the mud aspect is the main draw here.
💑 Couples Seeking Relaxation
Consider booking a private outdoor onsen room for an even more intimate and personalized experience. These can be rented by the hour and offer a secluded escape. Remember to remove any jewelry before entering the mud to prevent oxidation.
💰 Budget Travelers
However, if the mud bath is a must-do, consider it an investment in a distinctive experience. Look for potential off-peak times or inquire about any package deals that might offer better value. The private onsen rooms are also an option, but they come at an additional hourly cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Beppu Onsen Phenomenon
Beyond the 'hells,' Beppu offers a vast array of onsen experiences, from luxurious private resorts to traditional public baths. The city's geothermal activity also influences its cuisine, with many establishments offering 'jigokumushi' (hell-steamed) dishes, cooked using the natural steam from the hot springs. This unique culinary tradition adds another layer to the Beppu travel experience.
Beppu Onsen Hoyoland specifically taps into this geothermal bounty by offering a distinct mud bath experience. While other onsens focus on mineral-rich water, Hoyoland's defining feature is its therapeutic mud. This offers a different kind of relaxation and skin treatment, appealing to those seeking a more unique and earthy onsen adventure.
Navigating Mud Bath Etiquette and Expectations
Practical tips for enjoying the mud bath include removing all jewelry beforehand, as the mineral content can cause oxidation and discoloration.
When considering Hoyoland, it's helpful to compare it with other onsen options in Beppu. While Hoyoland charges around 1500 yen, facilities like Hyotan Onsen offer a similar experience for a lower price (around 700 yen).
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit