Chinoike Jigoku Beppu - the Palace Museum
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Chinoike Jigoku Beppu

3.9
·10k reviews·Beppu, Japan

Beppu's 'Bloody Pond Hell' mesmerizes with its naturally crimson, iron-rich waters, a unique geothermal spectacle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Chinoike Jigoku Beppu - the Palace Museum

Chinoike Jigoku Beppu

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Beppu's 'Bloody Pond Hell' mesmerizes with its naturally crimson, iron-rich waters, a unique geothermal spectacle.

3.9
(10k reviews)

"The water's deep reddish-brown because of iron oxide is kind of cool, but not mind-blowing."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Public Transport is Key

Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes . :bus:

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time . :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bloody Pond

The Bloody Pond

Main attraction

Witness the striking, deep crimson water, naturally colored by iron oxide. A truly unique sight!

Foot Baths

Foot Baths

Near the main pond

Relax your feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters, though some find them only lukewarm.

Gift Shop

Gift Shop

Adjacent to the entrance

Browse unique souvenirs and local crafts related to the Beppu 'Hells'.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Beppu Hells

Chinoike Jigoku is one of Beppu's famous 'Hells' (Jigoku). Plan your visit to the 'Hell Tour' (Jigoku Meguri) efficiently. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for all seven hells to save money and time. Public transport or a rental car is recommended as Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further from the main cluster and involves uphill walking.Reddit

Timing Your Visit

While not typically overcrowded, visiting Chinoike Jigoku earlier in the day or during weekdays can offer a more relaxed experience. The unique crimson color of the water is best appreciated in natural light. Be aware that some reviews mention the foot baths are only lukewarm, so manage expectations for that specific amenity.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good natural light for color
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
84.1K likes • 3.2M views

🚗 Public Transport is Key

Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes.Reddit :bus:

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time.Reddit :ticket:

Trả lời @thinhbg_95 別府八湯温泉まつり (Beppu Onsen Festival) cre: 藤澤佑樹 (yukifujisawa2) #別府八湯温泉まつり #別府温泉まつり #別府温泉 #温泉県おおいた♨️ #別府 #マッチョ #筋肉 #お神輿 #j_boys #japanboy #japanese #trainhatban
@j_boys_tt
20.6K likes • 160.8K views
I visited the ONLY Michelin Three Star Hot Spring in Japan♨️ Tag a friend you would want to visit here with! #japan #japanese #onsen #beppu
@jesseogn
17.2K likes • 303.5K views

💧 Foot Bath Warmth Varies

Enjoy the foot baths, but note some visitors find them only lukewarm.Reddit :foot:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

The gift shop offers unique items, making it a good last stop for 'Hell' souvenirs.Reddit :gift:

3 places you should visit on your next Japan trip ✌️🇯🇵 1. Beppu - honestly one of the most unusual and coolest cities we’ve ever visited that sits above geothermal activity, hence why the entire city blows out steam from every corner ♨️ 2. Izu Peninsula - still to date one of our favourite summer trips in Japan filled with breathtaking coastlines, quiet beaches and amazing natural onsen. Best of a...
@hangrybynature
8.3K likes • 480K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Public Transport is Key

Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes.Reddit :bus:

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time.Reddit :ticket:

💧 Foot Bath Warmth Varies

Enjoy the foot baths, but note some visitors find them only lukewarm.Reddit :foot:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

The gift shop offers unique items, making it a good last stop for 'Hell' souvenirs.Reddit :gift:

📸 Capture the Crimson

The unique red water is the main draw; aim for good lighting to capture its intensity.TikTok :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chinoike Jigoku is praised for its unique, blood-red waters caused by iron oxide, offering a visually striking experience. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the gift shop and the opportunity for a relaxing foot bath. However, some find the foot baths to be only lukewarm and note that the site is a bit further from the main cluster of 'Hells,' requiring specific transport arrangements.

"Not too crowded. This hotspring is a bit further away from the rest. Need to have car or use public transportation. Not recommended for walking from other hotspring because its a slope road!"

Aim Sirampuj

"This and the Umi hell are my favourite. It also has one of the largest shopping area. Good to have it as your last stop to do all the shopping for hell that you want."

E K

"Hot spring with red colour unique appearance. Fee admission is 500¥/person now."

Sunny

What People Like

Unique crimson water color
Interesting foot baths
Convenient gift shop

What People Dislike

Foot baths lukewarm
Slightly remote location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Beppu Station, you can take a local bus (e.g., Kamenoi Bus lines 26, 26A, or 21A) towards the 'Hell Tour' areas. Chinoike Jigoku is one of the further stops, so check bus routes carefully. Alternatively, renting a car offers more flexibility for visiting all the 'Hells'.TikTokReddit

While technically possible, it's not recommended to walk from other 'Hells' to Chinoike Jigoku as it's a bit further out and involves uphill roads, which can be tiring.Reddit

Yes, taxis are readily available in Beppu and can take you directly to Chinoike Jigoku. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.

The most efficient way is to use a 'Jigoku Meguri' combined ticket and plan a route. Many visitors use local buses or rent a car to hop between the different 'Hells'.TikTokReddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who choose to drive to Chinoike Jigoku.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee for Chinoike Jigoku is currently 500 JPY per person.Reddit You can also purchase a combined ticket for all seven 'Hells' which offers better value if you plan to visit more than one.

Some booking platforms like Klook may suggest printing tickets, but official websites often state that smartphone QR codes are acceptable. It's best to check the specific booking details or the official 'Jigoku Meguri' website for the most current information.Reddit

Chinoike Jigoku is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It's always a good idea to verify the hours closer to your visit, especially during holidays.TikTok

Yes, a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass is available, which grants entry to all seven 'Hells' in Beppu for a discounted price compared to buying individual tickets.Reddit

Yes, you can purchase individual tickets for Chinoike Jigoku at the entrance gate. Combined passes are also usually available for purchase at the first 'Hell' you visit or at designated ticket booths.

📸 📸 Photography

The main attraction is the unique, deep red color of the 'Bloody Pond' itself. Capture its intensity in natural light. The surrounding steam and the traditional Japanese garden elements also make for picturesque shots.TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed within the grounds of Chinoike Jigoku. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially in areas where people might be relaxing in the foot baths.

Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best natural light to showcase the vibrant red color of the pond. Overcast days can also create a dramatic effect.

Yes, you can take photos of the foot bath areas. However, be mindful of people using them and avoid taking close-up shots of individuals without their consent.

Drones are generally not permitted in tourist attractions like Chinoike Jigoku to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It's best to check with the management if you have specific drone photography needs.

🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience

Besides marveling at the 'Bloody Pond,' you can enjoy the foot baths, explore the small gift shop for unique souvenirs, and take a stroll through the surrounding garden areas.Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the foot baths are only lukewarm, rather than very hot. Manage your expectations for the temperature of the foot baths.Reddit

A visit to Chinoike Jigoku typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how long you spend at the foot baths and in the gift shop. If you're doing the full 'Hell Tour,' factor in travel time between each location.Reddit

Yes, children can visit Chinoike Jigoku. The unique red pond is visually interesting, and the foot baths can be a fun experience for them, though supervision is advised.

While Chinoike Jigoku itself doesn't have a full restaurant, there is a gift shop that may sell small snacks or drinks. You'll find more extensive dining options in the main Beppu city area or near other 'Hells'.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chinoike Jigoku can be an interesting stop for families, offering a visually unique experience with its 'Bloody Pond.' The vibrant red color is often captivating for children. While the main pond is too hot for bathing, the foot baths provide a fun, interactive element where kids can dip their feet in the warm, mineral-rich water.Reddit

It's advisable to visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The gift shop also offers a chance for kids to pick out a small souvenir. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the hot spring areas, and ensure they don't touch the scalding water.TikTok

🚗 Road Trippers & Car Renters

For those exploring Kyushu by car, Chinoike Jigoku is easily accessible. Having a rental car offers the most flexibility to visit all the 'Hells' at your own pace, including the slightly more remote Chinoike Jigoku.Reddit There are dedicated parking facilities available on-site.

Driving allows you to combine your visit to Chinoike Jigoku with other attractions in the Oita Prefecture, such as the scenic Yufuin or the city of Beppu itself. Be aware that some roads leading to and within the 'Hell Tour' areas can be narrow or winding, so drive cautiously.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The striking crimson color of Chinoike Jigoku's water is a photographer's dream. The best time to capture its intensity is during daylight hours when the natural light can truly highlight the iron oxide's vibrant hue.TikTok Look for angles that emphasize the steam rising from the pond and the surrounding traditional Japanese landscaping.

While the main pond is the star, don't overlook the details: the textures of the rocks, the steam patterns, and the offerings in the gift shop can all make for interesting shots. Be mindful of reflections in the water and try to find compositions that convey the unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere of this geothermal wonder.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The 'Hell Tour' of Beppu

Chinoike Jigoku, meaning 'Blood Pond Hell,' is one of the most visually striking of Beppu's famous 'Jigoku Meguri' or 'Hell Tour.' This tour encompasses seven distinct geothermal hot springs, each with a unique and often dramatic appearance. Visitors flock to these natural wonders to witness the boiling mud, steaming geysers, and vibrantly colored waters that have earned them their infernal names.TikTok+1

While Chinoike Jigoku is known for its deep red, iron-rich waters, other 'Hells' offer different spectacles. Umi Jigoku ('Sea Hell') boasts a stunning turquoise blue, while Oynama Jigoku ('Mountain Hell') features crocodiles basking in the heat. The 'Hell Tour' is a popular activity for tourists exploring Beppu, often completed using a combined ticket for efficiency.TikTok

Planning your 'Hell Tour' is key to maximizing your experience. Consider purchasing a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass, which covers entry to all seven sites and offers a cost saving. Public transportation, particularly local buses, is a common way to navigate between the 'Hells,' though renting a car provides more flexibility, especially for the slightly more distant Chinoike Jigoku.Reddit

The Science Behind the Crimson Waters

The distinctive, deep red hue of Chinoike Jigoku is not artificial but a natural phenomenon caused by a high concentration of iron oxide in the geothermal water.Reddit As the hot spring water, rich in dissolved iron, comes into contact with the air, the iron oxidizes, creating the characteristic reddish-brown color that resembles blood. This unique geological feature makes Chinoike Jigoku stand out among the other 'Hells' of Beppu.

Beppu itself is situated on one of the world's largest geothermal fields, with an abundance of hot springs. The city's location above this active geothermal zone allows for the diverse and dramatic displays seen at the 'Hells.' The temperature of the water in Chinoike Jigoku is extremely high, making it unsuitable for bathing, but the nearby foot baths offer a chance to experience the mineral-rich waters at a more comfortable temperature.Reddit

While the visual spectacle is the primary draw, the mineral content of these hot springs has historically been associated with therapeutic properties. Beppu has a long history as a renowned onsen (hot spring) resort town, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and potential health benefits from its geothermal waters.TikTok

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