Beppu Onsen Kitahama
Beppu Onsen Kitahama: Japan's vibrant hot spring capital, famed for its dramatic 'Hells,' therapeutic sand baths, and unique geothermal cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Beppu Onsen Kitahama
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Beppu Onsen Kitahama: Japan's vibrant hot spring capital, famed for its dramatic 'Hells,' therapeutic sand baths, and unique geothermal cuisine.
"Beppu is the most unique city we have EVER visited and you MUST see this place at least once!"
♨️ Embrace the Sand Bath
Try the unique sand bath at Takegawara Onsen for a truly local and relaxing experience.
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Beppu is easily navigable by local buses and taxis, making it accessible without a car.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)
Various locations across Beppu
Witness the dramatic 'Hells' of Beppu, featuring boiling mud, steaming geysers, and vividly colored hot springs.
Takegawara Onsen
Beppu City
Experience the unique sand bath at this historic onsen, a truly unforgettable and therapeutic experience.
Hyotan Onsen
Kannawa District
Indulge in a Michelin-recognized onsen experience, known for its diverse bathing options and steamed cuisine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Steam: Beppu's Onsen Etiquette
Navigating Beppu's 'Hells'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
♨️ Embrace the Sand Bath
Try the unique sand bath at Takegawara Onsen for a truly local and relaxing experience.
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Beppu is easily navigable by local buses and taxis, making it accessible without a car.
🍜 Taste the Steamed Cuisine
Don't miss the 'Jigoku Mushi' (hell steamed) cuisine, a local specialty cooked using natural hot spring steam.
💰 Budget-Friendly Onsen
Many onsen, like the Michelin 3-star one, are surprisingly affordable to enter.
Tips
from all over the internet
♨️ Embrace the Sand Bath
Try the unique sand bath at Takegawara Onsen for a truly local and relaxing experience.
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Beppu is easily navigable by local buses and taxis, making it accessible without a car.
🍜 Taste the Steamed Cuisine
Don't miss the 'Jigoku Mushi' (hell steamed) cuisine, a local specialty cooked using natural hot spring steam.
💰 Budget-Friendly Onsen
Many onsen, like the Michelin 3-star one, are surprisingly affordable to enter.
🏨 Unique Hotel Stays
Consider unique onsen hotels perched on hills for stunning views and serene environments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Beppu's unique 'Hell Tour' and the deeply relaxing onsen experiences, especially the sand baths. The steamed cuisine is a culinary highlight, offering a taste of the region's geothermal power. While the sheer number of onsen can be overwhelming, most find the experiences to be affordable and rejuvenating.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beppu is easily accessible from Oita Airport via local buses and taxis. If you're coming from other major cities in Japan, you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Oita Station and then transfer to a local train or bus to Beppu.
Yes, Beppu is very well-connected by public transportation. Local buses and taxis are readily available to explore the different onsen districts and attractions.
Local buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Beppu. Taxis are also available for quicker journeys.
Yes, you can reach Beppu from Fukuoka by taking a train. The journey typically takes around 2-3 hours.
Yes, there are direct bus services from Oita Airport to Beppu, making it a convenient starting point for your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees for Beppu's onsen vary. Some, like the famous 'Hells,' have admission fees for viewing, while many public baths are very affordable, often less than $1.
Tickets for the 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour) can usually be purchased on-site at each individual 'hell.' It's advisable to check the official websites for any specific booking requirements, especially during peak seasons.
While most dedicated onsen facilities have an entry fee, some public foot baths (ashiyu) are free to use, offering a taste of Beppu's hot spring culture.
Opening hours can vary for each 'hell' and onsen. It's best to check the specific attraction's hours before your visit, as some may close in the late afternoon.
Some combination tickets or passes might be available for visiting multiple 'Hells' within the Jigoku Meguri. Inquire locally or check official tourism websites for current options.
🎫 ♨️ Onsen Experience
Before entering the bath, thoroughly wash your body at the provided washing stations. Do not wear swimwear in the baths, and keep your towel out of the water.
Absolutely! Takegawara Onsen is famous for its unique sand baths, where you're buried in warm volcanic sand.
Yes, many hotels and some onsen facilities in Beppu offer private onsen rooms (kashikiri buro) for a more intimate experience.
'Jigoku Mushi' refers to cuisine steamed using the natural heat from Beppu's hot springs. You can try this at places like Jigokumushikobo Kannawa.
Many traditional onsen in Japan have a no-tattoo policy due to historical associations. It's best to check with individual onsen facilities beforehand or look for onsen that are tattoo-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed at the 'Jigoku Meguri' sites, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
The vibrant colors of the 'Hells,' the steam rising from the ground, and the unique architecture of traditional onsen offer great photo opportunities.
Inside the bathing areas of onsen, photography is strictly prohibited to respect privacy. Focus on the exterior and surrounding areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions.
Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near residential zones. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for hotels that offer family rooms or private onsen options to ensure everyone can enjoy the hot spring experience without worry. Some hotels might also have amenities catering to younger guests. Researching accommodation with good reviews for families is recommended.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize local buses for transportation, which are cost-effective for getting around the city. For dining, explore local eateries and try the 'Jigoku Mushi' cuisine, which can be a more affordable and authentic way to eat compared to high-end restaurants. Many hotels offer reasonable rates, especially if booked in advance or during off-peak seasons.
💖 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Experience the therapeutic sand bath at Takegawara Onsen for a shared, novel relaxation activity. Enjoying the 'Jigoku Mushi' cuisine together offers a delightful culinary adventure. The serene atmosphere of Beppu, with its steaming landscapes, provides a perfect backdrop for a tranquil getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Beppu's 'Hells' (Jigoku Meguri)
Each 'hell' offers a unique spectacle, from geysers erupting to steam vents hissing. The sheer volume and variety of these geothermal features are astounding, making it a must-see for any visitor to Beppu. Plan for at least half a day to comfortably explore several of these natural wonders.
Pro-tip: Consider purchasing a combined ticket if available, or plan your route efficiently as the 'Hells' are spread across different areas of Beppu. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
The Art of Onsen Bathing in Beppu
Beyond the typical hot spring baths, Beppu offers unique experiences like the sand baths at Takegawara Onsen. Here, you're buried in naturally heated volcanic sand, which is believed to have therapeutic benefits. This is a truly distinctive way to relax and rejuvenate.
When visiting any onsen, remember to adhere to local etiquette. This includes washing thoroughly before entering the bath, not wearing swimwear, and being mindful of others. Some onsen may have tattoo policies, so it's wise to check in advance.
Culinary Delights of Beppu
Restaurants like Jigokumushikobo Kannawa offer an authentic 'Jigoku Mushi' experience, where you can select your ingredients and watch them being steamed right before your eyes. It's a fun and delicious way to engage with Beppu's geothermal culture.
Beyond steamed dishes, Beppu offers fresh seafood and other regional specialties. Don't forget to try local sweets and snacks, some of which are also prepared using hot spring heat, like the steamed pudding mentioned at Okamotoya.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit